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In this episode, I'm joined by John Guercio for a wide-ranging and practical conversation about leadership through a behavioral lens. John and I dig into what it actually means to lead in applied behavior analysis, especially when so much of the existing leadership literature is vague, mentalistic, or disconnected from observable behavior. We start by talking about the need to operationalize leadership in behavioral terms and explore the four leadership hats developed by Dr. Paulie Gavoni: leading, training, coaching, and managing. We break down what each of these roles looks like behaviorally, how they function across time, and why effective leaders need to move flexibly between them rather than relying on a single style. A major theme of the episode is the role of positive reinforcement in leadership. John shares real-world examples from his OBM coursework and his work at Cornerstone Behavioral Services, highlighting how difficult—but necessary—it can be to shift away from punitive and avoidance-based management strategies. We discuss why punishment often "works" in the short term, why leaders continue to rely on it, and how reinforcement-based leadership creates better outcomes for both staff and organizations. We also spend time unpacking the distinction between leadership and management. John reflects on his own strengths and limitations, describing how he focuses on vision and direction while intentionally surrounding himself with strong managers who excel at systems, logistics, and follow-through. This leads to a powerful discussion about positional authority, seniority, and the myth that leadership status entitles people to treat others poorly. Throughout the episode, we return to the importance of psychological safety, consistent feedback, and emotional regulation in leadership roles. John shares practical strategies for navigating tough conversations, including how to balance empathy with accountability, how to manage staff expectations, and how to avoid letting emotion drive professional communication (including when not to send that email). We also talk through concrete tools and exercises for improving leadership practice, such as symbolic problem-solving activities to surface unspoken team issues, written acknowledgment systems, and using assessment tools like the Performance Diagnostic Checklist to guide supervision and coaching. John closes by sharing future directions for developing empirically grounded management assessment tools, along with a preview of his upcoming work and conference presentations. This is a practical, honest conversation for anyone supervising staff, leading teams, or trying to build reinforcing, values-consistent organizations in human services. Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode RBT Course for Adult Services (the 'bridge' course too!) Sims and Szilagyi (1975). Leader reward behavior and subordinate satisfaction and performance Stone Soup Conference Registration (use code PODCAST26 at checkout) Carr and Wilder (2015). The Performance Diagnostic Checklist—Human Services John's previous BOP appearances Session 274: Psychological Safety in the Workplace (Supervision CEU!) Additional Books, Articles, and Ideas Discussed John's books on Amazon Komaki (1998). Leadership from an Operant Perspective McGregor (1960). The Human Side of Enterprise Daniels and Daniels (2023). The Measure of a Leader Elliot (2012). Leading Apple With Steve Jobs: Management Lessons From a Controversial Genius Covey (2020). The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, 30th Anniversary Edition Harley (2013). How to Say Anything to Anyone Grenny et al. (2021). Crucial Conversations (Third Edition): Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High Sponsor shoutouts! Office Puzzle: A thriving ABA practice depends on systems that actually support your team, not slow them down. If you've struggled with software that's buggy, hard to navigate, or offers little support when you need it most, you're not alone. That's why so many practices are switching to Office Puzzle. Go to officepuzzle.com/bop to learn more! HRIC Recruting. Cut out the middleman and speak directly with Barbara Voss, who's been placing BCBAs in great jobs all across the US for 15 years. The 2026 Stone Soup Conference! This is one of the best values in the online conference space. I'm actually going to be one of the speakers at this year's event, along with a great cast of other characters you're probably familiar with. Save on your registration by using promo code PODCAST26 Behavior University. Their mission is to provide university quality professional development for the busy Behavior Analyst. Learn about their CEU offerings, including their 8-hour Supervision Course, as well as their RBT offerings over at behavioruniversity.com/observations. Don't forget to use the coupon code, PODCAST to save at checkout! The 2026 Verbal Behavior Conference! Taking place March 26–27, 2026, in Austin, Texas, or livestream and on-demand on BehaviorLive. Presenters will include Drs. Mark Sundberg, Patrick McGreevy, Caio Miguel, Alice Shillingsburg, Sarah Frampton, Andresa De Souza, and Danielle LaFrance will share how Skinner's analysis of verbal behavior can guide the assessment and treatment of generative learning challenges in children with autism and other developmental disabilities. And don't miss the special pre-conference workshop on Wednesday, March 25. CEUs from Behavioral Observations. Learn from your favorite podcast guests while you're commuting, walking the dog, or whatever else you do while listening to podcasts. New events are being added all the time, so check them out here.
Carrie Phillips is joined by Janelle Holmboe, Chief Enrollment and Marketing Officer at McDaniel College, for a powerful conversation at the intersection of AI, innovation, and organizational leadership. This episode goes beyond the tools and tactics—it's a masterclass in how to restructure teams, rethink priorities, and redefine innovation in higher ed. If you're a leader trying to manage change without burning out your people, this episode is essential listening.Guest Name: Janelle Holmboe, Executive Vice President for Constituent Engagement, McDaniel CollegeGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janelle-holmboe-31b61427/Guest Bio: Enrollment professional with experience leading enrollment and communication teams in advancing the strategic goals of an institution. Professional experience includes enrollment, communications and marketing experience at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Currently serving as the chief enrollment officer and chief communications officer at McDaniel College, overseeing admissions, financial aid, and communications and marketing to further the institutional mission. Currently leading the development of the college's new constituent engagement model which includes institutional advancement and enrollment management. Previous position at Warren Wilson College and American International College included overseeing all aspects of undergraduate and graduate outreach, recruiting and admission, leading to record undergraduate and graduate applications and enrollment. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This week Joe Fier sits down with renowned coach, entrepreneur, and AI enthusiast Krista Mashore. The conversation dives into how Krista transitioned from a background in education and real estate to building a thriving coaching business, leveraging cutting-edge AI tools and innovative event models. Discover practical insights for business growth, creating interactive lead magnets, and redefining the sales process—all while keeping things fun and approachable. Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to scale, a coach eager to boost engagement, or simply curious about using AI to build your brand, this episode delivers actionable strategies and inspiring stories. Topics Discussed Krista's Journey: From teaching to top 1% real estate agent, then launching her own coaching and consulting business. Monthly Virtual Events: The proven process Krista uses for lead generation, qualifying buyers, and selling high-ticket offers through repeatable online events. AI in Business: How Krista integrates AI tools (like custom bots and mind clones) to create interactive experiences, streamline operations, and personalize content. Building Lead Magnets: Why interactive lead magnets (quizzes and custom apps) outperform static downloads in today's market. Optimizing Offers & Event Strategies: Krista's process for continuously refining event offers, bonuses, and pricing to maximize conversions. Tools for Non-Techies: How platforms like Abacus AI, Lovable, Bolt, and Wispr Flow enable anyone (even with zero coding experience!) to build apps and automation by just talking to the computer. Audience Evolution: Challenges and lessons learned as Krista expands her coaching programs beyond real estate into entrepreneurship and AI. The Human Side of AI: Why scaling with AI enhances, rather than replaces, real human connection and accountability in coaching programs. Removing Barriers to Success: Strategies for helping clients build belief in themselves, overcome objections, and achieve their goals with support and accountability. Resources Mentioned Abacus AI: https://abacus.ai Lovable: https://lovable.dev Bolt: https://bolt.new Wispr Flow: https://wisprflow.ai Delphi Mind Clone: https://hustleandflowchart.com/delphi Connect with Krista (don't forget to DM here "BOT" for access to her constraint bot) Website: https://constraint.kristamashore.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KristaMashoreCoachingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristamashore Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kristamashore/...
Guest: Samira Davis, United Cajun NavyWhen disaster strikes, it's often the people on the ground — not the headlines — who make the biggest difference. During Hurricane Florence, while historic floods swallowed neighborhoods across the Carolinas, Samira Davis was among those who stepped up. As a volunteer with the United Cajun Navy, she helped coordinate relief for families, pets, and even horses — filling the gaps between official response and human need. In this episode, we hear her firsthand account of what it's like to navigate chaos and compassion side by side, the lessons she's carried from that experience, and how grassroots responders are reshaping what disaster recovery looks like.CHAPTERS00:00 The Human Impact of Disaster Response03:03 Becoming a Weather Geek: Personal Journeys06:16 The Role of Grassroots Organizations in Disaster Relief09:02 The United Cajun Navy: A New Era of Response11:55 Navigating Challenges in Disaster Recovery14:46 BREAK 114:54 The Importance of Preparedness and Community18:06 Animal Rescue in Disaster Situations21:09 The Long-Term Effects of Natural Disasters23:56 Getting Involved: How to Help27:04 The Power of Community and Collaboration27:40 BREAK 200:27:41 Real Estate Lessons from Disasters00:31:28 Collective Action and Preparedness00:34:54 Evolving Strategies in Disaster Relief00:37:12 Conclusion and Call to ActionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Nae Hakala is an HR professional and equity advocate whose career spans college radio management, retail leadership, and human resources. Now a business partner at Zenefits, she specializes in supporting nonprofits and small businesses through empathy-driven practices, equity work, and building HR foundations that empower leaders while pursuing her doctorate in business administration. TAKEAWAYS Human-centered recruiting: Every applicant deserves personal feedback and connection to build lasting talent relationships. Equity requires discomfort: Growth comes from embracing difficult conversations about diversity and systemic structures. Support drives results: Happy, trusted employees naturally perform well, reducing turnover and strengthening culture. A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought leaders." About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more: https://www.xeniumhr.com/ Connect with Brandon Laws LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon About Brandon: https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws Connect with Xenium HR Website: https://xeniumhr.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR Twitter: https://twitter.com/XeniumHR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR
Send us a textIn this episode of Leave Your Mark, I'm joined by Erin Sills, co-founder of High Impact Lab, for a thoughtful conversation on leadership, impact, and the human side of organizational change.With more than two decades of experience working with leaders and organizations across the private sector, healthcare, Crown corporations, and innovative global enterprises, Erin brings a rare depth of perspective to how culture, leadership, and performance truly evolve.Her background includes senior roles in tech and executive consulting, as well as a pivotal four-year tenure with the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, where she led initiatives in leadership development, team culture, change management, and employee engagement.A passionate learner and gifted listener, Erin has a unique ability to create space for meaningful dialogue—helping people think more clearly, communicate more honestly, and lead with greater intention.This episode is a powerful exploration of what it really means to lead with impact—at work, at home, and in life.If you liked this EP, please take the time to rate and comment, share with a friend, and connect with us on social channels IG @Kingopain, TW @BuiltbyScott, LI+FB Scott Livingston. You can find all things LYM at www.LYMLab.com, download your free Life Lab Starter Kit today and get busy living https://lymlab.com/free-lym-lab-starter/Please take the time to visit and connect with our sponsors, they are an essential part of our success:www.ReconditioningHQ.comwww.FreePainGuide.com
Is your team actually afraid of artificial intelligence, or are they terrified of being devalued? Courtney Baker, David DeWolf, and Mohan Rao return for Part 2 of our change management miniseries, arguing that resistance isn't obstruction—it's a vital information signal. The panel explores why psychological safety must precede AI literacy and how leaders can acknowledge the "grief" of outdated workflows to build genuine trust. Then, Pete Buer continues his conversation with digital transformation expert Tom Davenport to diagnose "Pilotis"—the industry-wide failure to scale beyond experiments. Tom explains why unstructured data is the hidden bottleneck stopping ROI and why handing everyone a Copilot license isn't a valid strategy. All that, PLUS Pete breaks down new Gallup data revealing the stark reality of actual AI usage rates versus the hype. Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtu.be/qm0ZhU2W6ZU Start your 30-day trial of Knownwell: knownwell.com/30days
Ben Ortlip joins Adam to discuss how effective leaders learn to listen not just to words, but to the emotions behind them.Learn more about Ben: https://theculturemri.com/
On this episode of the Sea Captain Leadership Podcast, host Phil Bender is joined by Devon Volker and Jennifer Goldman, the dynamic leaders behind My Virtual COO and new Affiliate Partners of Sea Captain Performance.My Virtual COO helps businesses stop struggling and start improving by transforming operations into a true growth engine. Through a powerful blend of coaching, consulting, and fractional COO services, Devon and Jennifer help leaders gain traction, build accountability, and scale sustainably—especially in today's fast-moving environment shaped by technology and AI.In this conversation, Phil, Devon, and Jennifer explore how operational clarity, human-centered leadership, and adaptive systems are redefining what it means to lead well.Key Topics Covered:The My Virtual COO MissionHow My Virtual COO was founded in 2005 and how its mission—“Stop Struggling, Start Improving, Reach Your Vision”—has evolved alongside modern leadership challenges.The Trifecta of Growth: Coaching, Consulting, and SaaSWhy true transformation happens when leadership coaching, strategic consulting, and the right technology work together—and where clients see the biggest breakthroughs.The Human Side of OperationsHow culture, communication, and trust must evolve alongside systems and processes to create lasting operational change.AI, Technology, and Fluid RecalibrationJennifer introduces the concept of “fluidity around recalibration” and explains how leaders can responsibly integrate AI while staying aligned with their values and people.The Three P's FrameworkA foundational model for sustainable growth—and how leaders can quickly identify which area is out of alignment inside their business.Aligning People, Processes, and ProvidersMy Virtual COO's approach to sequencing outsourcing partners, technology platforms, and workflows to drive growth without chaos or burnout.Partnering with Sea Captain PerformanceWhy this affiliate partnership expands what's possible for advisors and leaders—and how leadership coaching and operational strategy together create a powerful competitive advantage.About Our GuestsDevon Volker and Jennifer Goldman are the founders of My Virtual COO, where they serve as trusted operational advisors, coaches, and strategists to growing organizations. Their work helps leaders move from friction to flow, turning complexity into clarity and vision into execution.About the PodcastThe Sea Captain Leadership Podcast is hosted by Phil Bender, CEO of Sea Captain Performance, where we help leaders chart a clear course for growth, culture, and impact.Connect with usSeaCaptainCoaching.com Instagram link FB link Connect with Phil LinkedInNow Available!
Welcome to our first Pulse Check of 2026. In this Part 1, Carrie Phillips sits down with Brian Berry, Vice Provost of Research and Dean of the Graduate School at UA Little Rock. Brian also chairs the university's AI Council, where he's helping build responsible frameworks for AI governance, policy, and adoption. This isn't a theoretical conversation—it's a transparent and practical look at how institutions can integrate AI without losing their soul. From the risks to the opportunities, this episode is a must-listen for anyone shaping the future of AI in higher education.Guest Name: Brian Berry, Vice Provost of Research & Deam of Graduate School, UA Little RockGuest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-berry-6867039/Guest Bio: Dr. Brian Berry serves as the Vice Provost of Research and Dean of the graduate school at UA Little Rock. Dr. Brian Berry previously served as the department chair for the UA Little Rock chemistry department. He has also served as assistant professor of chemistry since 2008. Dr. Berry earned his Ph.D. in applied science and chemistry, as well as a bachelor's degree in chemistry from UA Little Rock. He also completed a postdoctoral at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute as well as a National Research Council postdoctoral fellowship at the National Institute of Standards and Technology prior to returning to UA Little Rock as an assistant professor. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Welcome back to Snafu with Robin Zander. In this episode, I'm joined by Jeff Jaworsky, who shares his journey from a global role at Google to running his own business while prioritizing time with his children. We talk about the pivotal life and career decisions that shaped this transition, focusing on the importance of setting boundaries—both personally and professionally. Jeff shares insights on leaving a structured corporate world for entrepreneurship and the lessons learned along the way. We also explore the evolving landscape of sales and entrepreneurship, highlighting how integrating human connection and coaching skills is more important than ever in a tech-driven world. The conversation touches on the role of AI and technology, emphasizing how they can support—but not replace—essential human relationships. Jeff offers practical advice for coaches and salespeople on leveraging their natural skills and hints at a potential future book exploring the intersection of leadership, coaching, and sales. If you're curious about what's next for thoughtful leadership, entrepreneurship, and balancing work with life, this episode is for you. And for more conversations like this, get your tickets for Snafu Conference 2026 on March 5th here, where we'll continue exploring human connection, business, and the evolving role of AI. Start (0:00) Early life and first real boundary Jeff grew up up in a structured, linear environment Decisions largely made for you Clear expectations, predictable paths Post–high school as the first inflection point College chosen because it's "what you're supposed to do" Dream: ESPN sports anchor (explicit role model: Stuart Scott) Reality check through research Job placement rate: ~3% First moment of asking: Is this the best use of my time? Is this fair to the people investing in me (parents)? Boundary lesson #1 Letting go of a dream doesn't mean failure Boundaries can be about honesty, not limitation Choosing logic over fantasy can unlock unexpected paths Dropping out of college → accidental entry into sales Working frontline sales at Best Buy while in school Selling computers, service plans, handling customers daily Decision to leave college opens capacity Manager notices and offers leadership opportunity Takes on home office department Largest sales category in the store Youngest supervisor in the company (globally) at 19 Early leadership challenges Managing people much older Navigating credibility, age bias, exclusion Learning influence without authority Boundary insight Temporary decisions can become formative Saying "yes" doesn't mean you're locked in forever Second boundary: success without sustainability Rapid growth at Best Buy Promotions Increasing responsibility Observing manager life up close 60-hour weeks No real breaks Lunch from vending machines Internal checkpoint Is this the life I want long-term? Distinguishing: Liking the work Disliking the cost Boundary lesson #2 You can love a craft and still reject the lifestyle around it Boundaries protect the future version of you Returning to school with intention Decision to go back to college This time with clarity Sales and marketing degree by design, not default Accelerated path Graduates in three years Clear goal: catch up, not start over Internship at J. Walter Thompson Entry into agency world Launch of long-term sales and marketing career Pattern recognition: how boundaries actually work Ongoing self-check at every stage Have I learned what I came here to learn? Am I still growing? Is this experience still stretching me? Boundaries as timing, not rejection Experiences "run their course" Leaving doesn't invalidate what came before Non-linear growth Sometimes stepping down is strategic Demotion → education Senior role → frontline role (later at Google) Downward moves that enable a bigger climb later Shared reflection with Robin Sales as a foundational skill Comparable to: Surfing (handling forces bigger than you) Early exposure to asking, pitching, rejection Best Buy reframed Customer service under pressure Handling frustrated, misinformed, emotional people Humility + persuasion + resilience Parallel experiences Robin selling a restaurant after learning everything she could Knowing the next step (expansion) and choosing not to take it Walking away without knowing what's next Core philosophy: learning vs. maintaining "If I'm not learning, I'm dying" Builder mindset, not maintainer Growth as a non-negotiable Career decisions guided by curiosity, not status Titles are temporary Skills compound Ladders vs. experience stacks Rejecting the myth of linear progression Valuing breadth, depth, and contrast The bridge metaphor Advice for people stuck between "not this" and "not sure what next" Don't leap blindly Build a bridge Bridge components Low-risk experiments Skill development Small tests in parallel with current work Benefits Reduces panic Increases clarity Turns uncertainty into movement Framing the modern career question Referencing the "jungle gym, not a ladder" idea Careers as lateral, diagonal, looping — not linear Growth through range, not just depth Connecting to Range and creative longevity Diverse experiences as a competitive advantage Late bloomers as evidence that exploration compounds Naming the real fear beneath the metaphor What if exploration turns into repeated failure? What if the next five moves don't work? Risk of confusing experimentation with instability Adding today's pressure cooker Economic uncertainty AI and automation reshaping work faster than previous generations experienced The tension between adaptability and survival The core dilemma How do you pursue a non-linear path without tumbling back to zero? How do you "build the bridge" instead of jumping blindly? How do you keep earning while evolving? The two-year rule Treating commitments like a contract with yourself Two years as a meaningful unit of time Long enough to: Learn deeply Be challenged Experience failure and recovery Short enough to avoid stagnation Boundaries around optional exits Emergency ripcord exists But default posture is commitment, not escape Psychological benefit Reduces panic during hard moments Prevents constant second-guessing Encourages depth over novelty chasing The 18-month check-in Using the final stretch strategically Asking: Am I still learning? Am I still challenged? Does this align with my principles? Shifting from execution to reflection Early exploration of "what's next" Identifying gaps: Skills to acquire Experiences to test Regaining control External forces aren't always controllable Internal planning always is Why most people get stuck Planning too late Waiting until: Layoffs Burnout Forced transitions Trying to design the future in crisis Limited creativity Fear-based decisions Contrast with proactive planning Calm thinking Optionality Leverage Extending the contract Recognizing unfinished business Loving the work Still growing Still contributing meaningfully One-year extensions as intentional choices Not inertia Not fear Conscious recommitment A long career, one organization at a time Example: nearly 13 years at Google Six different roles Multiple reinventions inside one company Pattern over prestige Frontline sales Sales leadership Enablement Roles as chapters, not identities Staying while growing Leaving only when growth plateaus Experience stacking over ladder climbing Rejecting linear advancement Titles matter less than skills Accumulating perspective Execution Leadership Systems Transferable insight What works with customers What works internally What scales Sales enablement as an example of bridge-building Transition motivated by impact Desire to help at scale Supporting many sellers, not just personal results A natural evolution, not a pivot Built on prior sales experience Expanded influence Bridge logic in action Skills reused Scope widened Risk managed Zooming out: sales, stigma, and parenting Introducing the next lens: children Three boys: 13, 10, 7 Confronting sales stereotypes Slimy Manipulative Self-serving Tension between reputation and reality Loving sales Building a career around it Teaching it without replicating the worst versions Redefining sales as a helping profession Sales as service Primary orientation: benefit to the other person Compensation as a byproduct, not the driver Ethical center Believe in what you're recommending Stand behind its value Sleep well regardless of outcome Losses reframed Most deals don't close Failure as feedback Integrity as the constant Selling to kids (and being sold by them) Acknowledging reality Everyone sells, constantly Titles don't matter Teaching ethos, not tactics How you persuade matters more than whether you win Kindness Thoughtfulness Awareness of the other side Everyday negotiations Bedtime extensions Appeals to age, fairness, peer behavior Sales wins without good reasoning Learning opportunity Success ≠ good process Boundaries still matter Why sales gets a bad reputation Root cause: selfishness Focus on "what I get" Language centered on personal gain Misaligned value exchange Overselling Underdelivering The alternative Lead with value for the other side Hold mutual benefit in the background Make the exchange explicit and fair Boundaries as protection for both sides Clear scope What's included What's not Saying no as a service Preventing resentment Preserving trust Entrepreneurial lens Boundaries become essential Scope creep erodes value Clarity sustains long-term relationships Value exchange, scope, and boundaries Every request starts with discernment, not enthusiasm What value am I actually providing? What problem am I solving? How much time, energy, and attention will this really take? The goal isn't just a "yes" Both sides need to feel good about: What's being given What's being received What's being expected What's realistically deliverable Sales as a two-sided coin Mutual benefit matters Overselling creates future resentment Promising "the moon and the stars" is how trust breaks later Boundaries as self-respect Clear limits protect delivery quality Good boundaries prevent repeating bad sales dynamics Saying less upfront often enables better outcomes long-term Transitioning into coaching and the SNAFU Conference Context for the work today Speaking at the inaugural SNAFU Conference Focused on reluctant salespeople and non-sales roles Why coaching became the next chapter Sales is everywhere, regardless of title Coaching emerged as a natural extension of sales leadership The origin story at Google Transition from sales leadership to enablement Core question: how do we help sellers have better conversations? Result: building Google's global sales coaching program Grounded in practice and feedback Designed to prepare for high-stakes conversations The hidden overlap between sales and coaching Coaching as an underutilized advantage Especially powerful for sales leaders Shared core skills Deep curiosity Active listening Presence in conversation Reflecting back what's heard, not what you assume The co-creation mindset Not leading someone to your solution Guiding toward their desired outcome Why this changes everything Coaching improves leadership effectiveness Coaching improves sales outcomes Coaching reshapes how decisions get made A personal inflection point: learning to listen Feedback that lingered "Jeff is often the first and last to speak in meetings" The realization Seniority amplified his voice Being directive wasn't the same as being effective The shift Stop being the first to speak Invite more voices Lead with curiosity, not certainty The result More evolved perspectives Better decisions Sometimes realizing he was simply wrong The parallel to sales Talking at customers limits discovery Pre-built pitch decks obscure real needs The "right widget" only emerges through listening What the work looks like today A synthesis of experiences Buyer Seller Sales leader Enablement leader Executive coach How that shows up in practice Executive coaching for sales and revenue leaders Supporting decision-making Developing more coach-like leadership styles Workshops and trainings Helping managers coach more effectively Building durable sales skills Advisory work Supporting sales and enablement organizations at scale The motivation behind the shift Returning to the core questions: Am I learning? Am I growing? Am I challenged? A pull toward broader impact A desire to test whether this work could scale beyond one company Why some practices thrive and others stall Observing the difference Similar credentials Similar training Radically different outcomes The uncomfortable truth The difference is sales Entrepreneurship without romance Businesses don't "arrive" on their own Clients don't magically appear Visibility, rejection, iteration are unavoidable Core requirements Clear brand Defined ICP Articulated value Credibility to support the claim Debunking "overnight success" Success is cumulative Built on years of unseen experience Agency life + Google made entrepreneurship possible Sales as a universal survival skill Especially now Crowded markets Economic uncertainty Increased competition Sales isn't manipulation It's how value moves through the world Avoiding the unpersuadable Find people who already want what you offer Make it easier for them to say yes For those who "don't want to sell" Either learn it Or intentionally outsource it But you can't pretend it doesn't exist The vision board and the decision to leap December 18, 2023 45th birthday Chosen as a forcing function Purpose of the date Accountability, not destiny A moment to decide: stay or go Milestones on the back Coaching certification Experience thresholds Personal readiness Listening to the inner signal The repeated message: "It's time" The bridge was already built Skills stacked Experience earned Risk understood Stepping forward without full certainty You never know what's on the other side You only learn once you cross and look around Decision-making and vision boards Avoid forcing yourself to meet arbitrary deadlines Even if a date is set for accountability (e.g., a 45th birthday milestone), the real question is: When am I ready to act? Sometimes waiting isn't necessary; acting sooner can make sense Boundaries tie directly into these decisions They help you align personal priorities with professional moves Recognizing what matters most guides the "when" and "how" of major transitions Boundaries in the leap from corporate to entrepreneurship Biggest boundary: family and presence with children Managing a global team meant constant connectivity and messages across time zones Transitioning to your own business allowed more control over work hours, clients, and priorities The pro/con framework reinforced the choice Written lists can clarify trade-offs For this example, the deciding factor was: "They get their dad back" Boundaries in entrepreneurship are intertwined with opportunity More freedom comes with more responsibility You can choose your hours, clients, and areas of focus—but still must deliver results Preparing children for a rapidly changing world Skill priorities extend beyond AI and automation Technology literacy is essential, but kids will likely adapt faster than adults Focus on human skills Building networks Establishing credibility Navigating relationships and complex decisions Sales-related skills apply Curiosity, empathy, observation, and problem-solving help them adapt to change These skills are timeless, even as roles and tools evolve Human skills in an AI-driven world AI is additive, not replacement Leverage AI to complement work, not fear it Understand what AI does well and where human judgment is irreplaceable Coaching and other human-centered skills remain critical Lived experience, storytelling, and nuanced judgment cannot be fully replaced by AI Technology enables scale but doesn't replace complex human insight The SNAFU Conference embodies this principle Brings humans together to share experiences and learn Demonstrates that face-to-face interaction, stories, and mutual learning remain valuable Advice for coaches learning to sell Coaches already possess critical sales skills Curiosity, active listening, presence, problem identification, co-creating solutions These skills, when applied to sales, still fall within a helping profession Key approach Use your coaching skills to generate business ethically Reframe sales as an extension of support, not self-interest For salespeople Learn coaching skills to improve customer conversations Coaching strengthens empathy, listening, and problem-solving abilities, all core to effective selling Book and resource recommendations Non-classical sales books Setting the Table by Danny Meyer → emphasizes culture and service as a form of sales Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara → creating value through care for people Coaching-focused books Self as Coach, Self as Leader by Pam McLean Resources from the Hudson Institute of Coaching Gap in sales literature Few resources fully integrate coaching with sales Potential upcoming book: The Power of Coaching and Sales
When you're managing $60 trillion in assets across dozens of products and 30 global jurisdictions, technical debt isn't just an inconvenience—it's an existential risk.Jason Adams, Interim CTO of Charles River, a State Street Company, leads 800 engineers building mission-critical trading platforms for the world's largest asset managers. Joined by Sid Pardeshi, Co-Founder and CTO of Blitzy, he explains how State Street is using an AI-augmented SDLC to modernize decades-old systems, refactor legacy code, and dramatically increase developer productivity—without compromising the rigor required in financial services.Jason frames the strategy around three pillars: AI for engineering (copilots and polyglot support),AI for operations (APM, observability, and proactive monitoring), andAI embedded in products (LLM-powered explainers).Using Blitzy's agentic approach—iterative context building, dependency mapping, and targeted code generation—State Street compressed months of work into weeks while maintaining strict quality gates.About the Guests:Jason AdamsJason Adams is the Interim CTO of Charles River, a State Street Company. He brings deep expertise in modernizing legacy fintech infrastructure into scalable, cloud-native systems that support mission-critical financial services at global scale.Previously, Jason was Head of Platform Product and Strategy at Charles River Development and CTO of Mercatus (acquired by State Street and now part of Charles River for Private Markets). He has led high-impact initiatives across engineering, product, and cloud infrastructure, with extensive experience guiding end-to-end delivery teams.Today, Jason is driving a comprehensive SaaS transformation at CRD, focused on building resilient, future-ready architectures. From scaling global engineering organizations to delivering secure, high-performance platforms, he is committed to advancing innovation, agility, and long-term growth across Charles River, State Street Alpha, and State Street.Sid PardeshiSid Pardeshi is a technology leader and entrepreneur, currently Co-Founder and CTO of Blitzy. He holds a Harvard MS/MBA and previously served as a Software Architect at NVIDIA, where he built deep expertise at the intersection of AI, large-scale software systems, and product innovation.At NVIDIA, Sid was recognized as a Master Inventor, earning the Inventor's Jacket for driving AI-powered product innovation, with more than 25 U.S. patents filed across gaming, augmented reality, and virtual reality. He is also a seasoned software engineer with a strong track record in application performance optimization, delivering native client load-time improvements of up to 90%.Beyond hands-on engineering, Sid has led and coordinated software design, framework requirements, and application architecture across global teams of 500+ engineers. Today, he applies this blend of innovation, technical depth, and organizational leadership to building autonomous software development platforms that help enterprises modernize at scale.Timestamps:00:30 – Jason on Managing $60 Trillion in Assets01:55 – Challenges and Strategies in Financial Services07:00 – Embracing AI for Modernization09:10 – AI in Software Development Lifecycle15:55 – Ensuring Quality and Compliance with AI23:55 – AI in Operations and Incident Response26:00 – Proactive Workflow Monitoring26:20 – AI in SDLC: Creation to Operations30:00 – Challenges in AI Recommendations33:20 – Iterative Context Building with AI36:00 – Human Side of AI Transformation42:30 – Adopting AI Tools in Financial ServicesGuest Highlights:"One of the things that excites me the most right now is the ability to use an AI-augmented SDLC to drive modernization. Otherwise, with this many systems, it's too hard." — Jason "You have to invest in the non-attractive parts first. You have to build a foundation that's gonna support being able to bring on solutions and tools that could change your overall enterprise SDLC. That's a lot of work and that's a major investment." — Jason "We are unlocking by adding these additional capabilities and additional assurance that improves quality exponentially more than we could have in the past. Now I can have an agent swarm check itself—multiple agents doing code review at a level of depth we just don't have time to get to." — JasonGet Connected:Jason Adams on LinkedInSid Pardeshi on LinkedInYousuf Kahn on LinkedInIan Faison on LinkedInHungry for more tech talk? Check out latest episodes at ciopod.com: Ep 63 - How Autonomous AI is Solving the Enterprise Modernization ChallengeEp 62 - Running IT Like a Growth EngineEp 61 - What Manufacturing Can Teach You About Scaling Enterprise AILearn more about Caspian Studios: caspianstudios.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Neil Barrow returns for part 2 of his special double CPA Life episode to unpack the realities of business development beyond buzzwords. John steers the conversation from the pitfalls of hiring for growth without a plan, to the delicate dance of balancing capacity and opportunity within your firm, and Neil's philosophy is refreshingly straightforward: keep things simple, focus on relationships, and don't lose sight of what actually works. You won't want to miss the unexpected parallel Neil draws between perfecting an award-winning chili recipe and building a business, or his insight into how beer tastings can open doors to new clients just as effectively as chamber of commerce meetings. Get the full show notes and more resources at CPALifePodcast.com
In part two of the 'Best of 2025' series of Reimagining Cyber, hosted by Rob Aragao, the focus is on the human elements influencing cybersecurity. The episode explores the challenges of burnout in the cybersecurity workforce as explained by Dr. Andrew Reeves, a cyber psychology expert. Betsy Cooper of the Aspen Policy Academy emphasizes the importance of integrating personal experiences and community voices in shaping cybersecurity policy. Lynn Dohm, Executive Director of Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS), shares inspiring stories of individuals transitioning into cybersecurity careers. Finally, Craig Taylor of CyberHoot discusses a more effective approach to training that leverages positive reinforcement over punishment. The episode underlines that cybersecurity is not just about technology but also about understanding and supporting the people behind it.00:00 Introduction to Reimagining Cyber00:24 The Human Side of Cybersecurity: Burnout04:43 Shaping Cybersecurity Policy with Personal Experience07:00 Opening Doors: Women in Cybersecurity10:27 Effective Cybersecurity Training: Positive Reinforcement12:51 Conclusion: The Future of CybersecurityIt's 5 years since Reimagining Cyber began. Thanks to all of our loyal listeners!As featured on Million Podcasts' Best 100 Cybersecurity Podcasts Top 50 Chief Information Security Officer CISO Podcasts Top 70 Security Hacking Podcasts This list is the most comprehensive ranking of Cyber Security Podcasts online and we are honoured to feature amongst the best! Follow or subscribe to the show on your preferred podcast platform.Share the show with others in the cybersecurity world.Get in touch via reimaginingcyber@gmail.com
Scaling New Heights Podcast: Cutting Edge Training For Small Business Advisors
On this episode of the Woodard Report podcast, Heather speaks with Nancy McClelland, CPA about her journey as the "Dancing Accountant" and how embracing authenticity, community connection, and people skills has shaped her firm and career. They explore the importance of trust, niching, and collaboration between bookkeepers and tax professionals. About Nancy McClelland, CPANancy The Dancing Accountant is a CPA on a lifelong mission to educate the professionals who support small businesses and their communities. She runs 'Ask a CPA', a Q&A membership for bookkeepers who want to learn to prepare "tax-ready" books; co-hosts "She Counts" (the real-talk podcast for women in accounting); was named Top CAS ProAdvisor; Top 50 Women in Accounting; Bridging the Gap Mentor of the Year; ToPS Speaker of the Year; and AICPA Global Women to Watch – you can check out her award-winning MSN column at thedancingaccountant.com. Thank you to our show sponsor, Woodard!The Woodard membership program will help you build your ideal practice with our coaching, education, community and resources. We'll get you there with strategic direction from experienced pros, access to skill building and resources and a community to continually inspire your practice's transformation. Learn more about the show and our sponsors at Woodard.com/podcast
Staying in business for decades requires more than machines, processes, and good customers.In this episode of Machine Shop Mastery, I sit down with Bonnie and Ken Kuhn of Kuhn Tool, a multi-generation, family-owned shop in northwest Pennsylvania that has quietly endured for more than six decades. What makes this conversation special isn't just the longevity of the business, but the way Bonnie and Ken have built it together. From surviving offshoring waves and major customer losses to steadily growing from a handful of employees into a thriving operation, their story is rooted in flexibility, trust, and an unwavering commitment to people. They share how niching down, staying conservative with growth, and protecting employees through uncertain times helped them build a resilient company. We talk deeply about culture and what it really takes to create a workplace where people want to stay until retirement. Bonnie and Ken explain why respect, kindness, and genuine relationships aren't soft ideas, but strategic advantages in a demanding industry. Their stories about employee loyalty, family involvement, and moments of personal hardship reveal the human side of leadership that often gets overlooked. This episode is a powerful reminder that long-term success in manufacturing isn't driven solely by machines or technology. It's built through steady decisions, adaptability, and leaders who understand that people are not tools, they're the business. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:00) Ken reflects on flexibility as a core requirement for small businesses (3:11) The origins of Kuhn Tool and its evolution into a highly specialized job shop (5:22) How Factur can help you fill your sales pipeline (6:30) A snapshot of the business today, including services, capabilities, and team size (9:16) What it takes to operate in a low-volume, high-mix, high-precision environment (12:10) Why niching down became a critical strategic decision (15:03) Surviving offshoring and losing major customers during industry downturns (17:59) How cold calling from the Thomas Register helped rebuild the business (22:07) The importance of being proactive instead of waiting for work to return (25:42) What it takes to build a company where people want to retire (28:13) Why respect is the foundation of long-term employee retention (28:55) Hiring challenges and using social media and referrals to attract talent (30:32) Why we love SMW Autoblok for workholding (31:43) How technology investments replaced hard-to-find toolmaker skills (33:55) Early adoption of five-axis machining and why it paid off (38:05) Leveraging waterjet technology to improve flexibility and resilience (42:23) Meaningful moments that define ownership beyond profits (44:57) Bonnie's powerful story about returning to the shop after COVID (47:54) The role of NTMA and peer groups in leadership development (52:12) Why community and shared learning matter for small business owners (55:23) Embracing technology, including AI, as just another leadership tool (59:19) Why you should head to the 2026 IMTS Exhibitor Workshop Resources & People Mentioned Get a free custom report from Factur at Facturmfg.com/chips Why we love SMW Autoblok for workholding Why you should head to the 2026 IMTS Exhibitor Workshop Connect with Bonnie and Ken Kuhn Kuhn Tool & Die Connect with Bonnie on LinkedIn Connect with Ken on LinkedIn Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production by PODCAST FAST TRACK
As another year draws to a close, it's time to pause, look back, and take stock. As has become something of a tradition, this article shares with you my 2025 gameplay experience, some stats about the blog, my event attendance, a summary of the blog's finances and a brief look ahead to 2026. It's as much for my own record as it is for anyone who wants to know more about what 2025 has been like for me and the blog. Just don't expect any grand conclusions or dramatic discussions.Read the full review here: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/2025/12/27/2025-a-year-in-review-saturday-review/Useful LinksTranquility: The Descent review: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/2025/10/18/tranquility-the-descent-saturday-review/Tapestry review: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/2019/11/09/tapestry-saturday-review/Villagers review: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/2022/10/01/villagers-saturday-review/Mystic Vale review: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/2018/12/08/mystic-vale/A Gentle Rain review: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/2025/07/05/a-gentle-rain-saturday-review/Knarr review: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/2024/07/20/knarr-saturday-review/Oath: Chronicles of Empire and Exile review: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/2021/11/27/oath-chronicles-of-empire-and-exile-saturday-review/Ayar: Children of the Sun review: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/2025/11/22/ayar-children-of-the-sun-saturday-review/Wyrmspan review: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/2025/12/20/wyrmspan-saturday-review/General Orders: Sengoku Jidai review: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/2025/11/01/general-orders-sengoku-jidai-saturday-review/UK Games Expo 2025 review: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/2025/06/07/uk-games-expo-2025-saturday-review/The Human Side of Miniatures Games guest post: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/2025/12/16/mini-magic-the-human-side-of-miniatures-games-topic-discussion/How Board Games Build Communication Skills guest post: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/2025/11/18/the-hidden-language-of-co-op-gaming-how-board-games-build-communication-skills-topic-discussion/MusicIntro Music: Bomber (Sting) by Riot (https://www.youtube.com/audiolibrary/)Belong by Moavii | https://www.youtube.com/@MoaviiMusicFree To Use | https://freetouse.com/musicMusic promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.comTravel by Lukrembo | https://soundcloud.com/lukremboFree To Use | https://freetouse.com/musicMusic promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.comWe Are by Moavii | https://www.youtube.com/@MoaviiMusicFree To Use | https://freetouse.com/musicMusic promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.comBreakfast in Paris by Alex-Productions | https://onsound.eu/Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.comCreative Commons / Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0)https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_USAesthetic by Alex-Productions | https://onsound.eu/Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.comCreative Commons / Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0)https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_USSupportIf you want to support this podcast financially, please check out the links below:Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/TabletopGamesBlogPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/tabletopgamesblogWebsite: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/support/
In this episode of Disruption/Interruption, host KJ sits down with Jayesh Kumar, Co-Founder at Aonami. Discover how legacy systems are being disrupted, the challenges of digital transformation, and why true innovation means building solutions that give time back to people. Four Key Takeaways: The Problem with Legacy Systems [6:10]Banks and healthcare institutions are bogged down by dozens of outdated, patchwork systems, making innovation slow and compliance difficult. Meeting Clients Where They Are [14:54]True disruption comes from understanding a client’s current state and building solutions that fit their unique needs, rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all approach. The Human Side of B2B Sales [20:03]Selling transformative technology to large organizations is about building relationships and convincing multiple teams, not just one decision-maker. The Real Goal of Technology [28:47]The ultimate aim of innovation should be to give people time back, making work more productive, creative, and compassionate. Quote of the Show (34:23):"True disruption really happens not by doing a lot of work, but by doing less in a much smarter way. You should be building systems that start giving time back to people." – Jayesh Kumar Join our Anti-PR newsletter where we’re keeping a watchful and clever eye on PR trends, PR fails, and interesting news in tech so you don't have to. You're welcome. Want PR that actually matters? Get 30 minutes of expert advice in a fast-paced, zero-nonsense session from Karla Jo Helms, a veteran Crisis PR and Anti-PR Strategist who knows how to tell your story in the best possible light and get the exposure you need to disrupt your industry. Click here to book your call: https://info.jotopr.com/free-anti-pr-eval Ways to connect with Jayesh Kumar: LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jayeshrout Company Website: https://aonamitech.com How to get more Disruption/Interruption: Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/eccda84d-4d5b-4c52-ba54-7fd8af3cbe87/disruption-interruption Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disruption-interruption/id1581985755 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6yGSwcSp8J354awJkCmJlDSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Workplaces should not always be all about serious work – sometimes, you also need a bit of fun to keep your sanity and identify areas of improvement in the most interesting ways. Joining the People Strategy Forum is Jolynn D. Ledgerwood, Founder of Elevate Your Talent, who shares how she uses LEGO® bricks to redefine and elevate workflows and systems. She emphasizes the need for real human connection to break through limiting beliefs and redesign organizational strategies, particularly in this age of AI and automation. Jolynn also explains how to address AI anxiety and the right way to tap into your creative brainpower to build a better and more human workplace.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!
Today with us on the Incite Change Podcast, Coach Mauro sits down with Bruce Randall. Randall takes us through his world of AI and how it is transforming the way people think, work, communicate and make decisions while emphasizing that technology itself is not the driver of change; human intention and responsibility are. AI is a powerful tool that can accelerate progress, but only when guided by clear values, critical thinking and self-awareness. He challenges us to think about how reliance on AI can either support growth or reinforce complacency. Rather than allowing automation or convenience to replace reflection and accountability, Randall reminds us of the importance of staying engaged, adaptable, and grounded. Episode Timestamps ● [00:39] Who Is Bruce Randall? ● [09:55] How AI is Changing Everything ● [20:00] The Human Role in AI ● [30:41] Convenience vs Complacency ● [42:09] Leading with Etchics and Intention ● [51:00] Growing with the Future Resources Mentioned ● LinkedIn Thanks so much for tuning in. Join us again next week for another episode! Contact us! If you would like to get in touch, leave us a comment! Visit our website - www.healthyincite.com Follow us on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/incitecoaching/?hl=en Like us on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/incitecoaching/
AI is powerful, but it's not perfect. Don't treat every output as absolute truth. Do your research, stay curious, and remember: there are no real AI experts yet, especially AI itself! Global Dealer Solutions offers a network of high-performance providers while remaining product agnostic. Knowing which tools to deploy makes a big difference. Having a trusted adviser; priceless. Schedule your complimentary consultation today. https://calendly.com/don-278. BE THE 1ST TO KNOW. LIKE and FOLLOW HERE www.linkedin.com/company/fixed-ops-marketinghttps://www.youtube.com/channel/@fixedopsmarketingGet watch and listen links, as well as full episodes and shorts: www.fixedopsmarketing.com/wtfJoin Managing Partner and Host, Russell B. Hill and Charity Dunning, Co-Host and Chief Marketing Officer of FixedOPS Marketing, as we discuss life, automotive, and the human journey in WTF?!#podcast #automotive #fixedoperations
What does it really mean to support developers in a world where the tools are getting smarter, the expectations are higher, and the human side of technology is easier to forget? In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I sit down with Frédéric Harper, Senior Developer Relations Manager at TinyMCE, for a thoughtful conversation about what it takes to serve developer communities with credibility, empathy, and long-term intent. With more than twenty years in the tech industry, Fred's career spans hands-on web development, open source advocacy, and senior DevRel roles at companies including Microsoft, Mozilla, Fitbit, and npm. That journey gives him a rare perspective on how developer needs have evolved, and where companies still get it wrong. We explore how starting out as a full-time developer shaped Fred's approach to advocacy, grounding his work in real-world frustration rather than abstract messaging. He reflects on earning trust during challenging periods, including advocating for open source during an era when some communities viewed large tech companies with deep skepticism. Along the way, Fred shares how studying Buddhist philosophy has influenced how he shows up for developers today, helping him keep ego in check and focus on service rather than status. The conversation also lifts the curtain on rich text editing, a capability most users take for granted but one that hides deep technical complexity. Fred explains why building a modern editing experience involves far more than formatting text, touching on collaboration, accessibility, security, and the growing expectations around AI-assisted workflows. It is a reminder that some of the most familiar parts of the web are also among the hardest to build well. We then turn to developer relations itself, a role that is often misunderstood or measured through the wrong lens. Fred shares why DevRel should never be treated as a short-term sales function, how trust and community take time, and why authenticity matters more than volume. From open source responsibility to personal branding for developers, including lessons from his book published with Apress, Fred offers grounded advice on visibility, communication, and staying human in an increasingly automated industry. As the episode closes, we reflect on burnout, boundaries, and inclusion, and why healthier communities lead to better products. For anyone building developer tools, managing technical communities, or trying to grow a career without losing themselves in the process, this conversation leaves a simple question hanging in the air: how do we build technology that supports people without forgetting the people behind the code? Useful Links Connect with Frédéric Harper Learn More About TinyMCE Tech Talks Daily is sponsored by Denodo
This year's “Best of” episode is a highlight reel of the most impactful, yet practical strategies discussed in this year's Human Side of Money podcast episodes. These strategies are designed for Financial Advisors who want human-centric steps they can implement into their business' growth plan. What You'll Learn: Why generic “don't worry” emails can backfire How a repeatable framework can help calm anxious clients How efficiency could harm the client experience How to deepen client trust between meetings Learn more at www.rfgadvisory.com
Exit planning is often talked about in terms of numbers, valuation, and deal structure, but what happens when the real work starts with people, emotions, and a clear sense of what comes next?In this episode, Matt Di Francesco sits down with Hannah Chalker, a Certified Exit Planning Advisor and Certified Growth Value Advisor, to explore what truly drives successful business transitions. Hannah shares how her journey into the Exit Planning space began, why the discovery process is the foundation of every strong plan, and how she learned to see transition planning as both a strategic and deeply human process.Matt and Hannah also talk about:(04:13) Why increasing business value is a long-term process, not a short-term decision(05:06) How documenting SOPs ahead of time protects value in any transition(06:43) Why exit planning becomes emotional and requires a true leap of faith(09:43) How acting as a trusted partner helps owners gain confidence in their transition(11:00) Why helping owners grow value over time is the most rewarding part of the workConnect With Hannah ChalkerLinkedIn; https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-chalker/Connect With Matt DiFrancesco:matt@highliftfin.com(814)201-5855LinkedIn: Matt DiFrancescoLinkedIn: High Lift FinancialFacebook: High Lift Financial Instagram: @high_lift_financialYouTube: @highliftfinancialAbout the guest:Hannah Chalker helps business owners build stronger, more valuable companies through strategic financial and exit planning. As Director of Business Development and an Exit Planning Advisor at HighLift Financial, she works alongside Matt DiFrancesco to guide owners through value growth, transition planning, and long-term decision making. A Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA) and Certified Value Growth Advisor (CVGA), Hannah brings clarity, structure, and a steady hand to every stage of the journey, helping owners protect their legacy and confidently plan what comes next.Disclaimer:All information is obtained from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. No tax or legal advice is given nor intended. Content provided herein or on our website should not be construed as an offer for investment advice or for securities, insurance, or other investment products. Investments involve the risk of loss and are not guaranteed. Consult a qualified legal, tax, accounting, or financial professional before implementing any investments or strategy discussed here.High Lift Financial is a DBA for DiFrancesco Financial Concierge, LLC. Investment advisory services are provided through Cornerstone Planning Group, LLC, an independent advisory firm registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Chris Hermansen: Don't be Afraid to Create Summary Jim Grisanzio from Java Developer Relations talks with Chris Hermansen, a Java developer, consultant, and data analyst from Canada. Chris discovered Java in the 1990s and was drawn to its free accessibility and object-oriented design. He particularly appreciated Java's straightforward single inheritance model over C++'s complexity. But Chris's path to technology came through mathematics rather than computer science. He identifies streams as Java's most transformative feature for data analysis work and praises how it improved code readability and maintainability. On consulting, Chris cautions against Silicon Valley mantras like "fail often" when applied outside prototyping contexts, and he observes cultural differences in how engineers approach problem-solving with some preferring abstract discussion while others focusing on concrete data. Chris emphasizes that technology work remains fundamentally human and stresses the importance of listening, maintaining humanity in professional life, and avoiding corporate stereotypes. For students, he notes the differences between learning with modern IDEs versus the command line tools of his era when he learned to code, so he advises that new learners to try multiple approaches to deepen their understanding. His core message, which became the episode's title, is simple: "Don't be afraid to create." Discovering Java in the 1990s Chris discovered Java in the mid-1990 when Java was announced while working as a data analyst. "Java came along and it was free to use. It wasn't open source at that point, but it was free to use," he says. "And it really intrigued me because of its object-oriented approach to things, which was something that didn't come with the platform we were working on." Unlike the purchased software products he was using at the time, Java offered a free and accessible alternative that promised serious long-term value. He also appreciated how Java's design avoided the complexities of C++, especially the problems with multiple inheritance. He and a colleague had been discussing moving from Pascal to either C or C++, but his colleague had concerns about C++'s complexity, particularly around multiple inheritance. "The first thing that really jumped out to me was the straightforward single inheritance pathway and the use of interfaces to define contractual relations between code," Chris says. Java's approach to inheritance immediately stood out as cleaner and more maintainable. Features like array bounds checking and interfaces for defining contractual relationships between code further convinced him he was learning something that would age well. "I felt that I was learning something that would wear well over time. I wouldn't turn around and look at what I'd done 10 or 15 or 20 years later and say, yuck, what was I thinking?" After committing to Java and sticking with it through the learning process, he found it repaid his effort many times over. "I liked it and I stuck with it, and I found it paid me back enormously for my investment in learning." Career Path Through Mathematics Chris's path to technology came through math rather than traditional computer science. He actually stumbled into science during the registration process at school in the 1970s and eventually pursued math after deciding against engineering. His career took him through various mathematical applications, including consulting and data analysis positions in forestry. Java's Evolution: Streams and Beyond Regarding Java's evolution, Chris identified streams as the biggest feature improvement for his work. When asked about new features that have been useful in his applications, he immediately identifies streams as transformative. "I mean, streams was the big one. Streams just made a whole difference to the way you would handle data," he says. He contrasts the old approach of writing hundreds of lines of nested for loops with the more elegant stream-based approach: "And so streams has just made that a whole lot easier. And the code is so much more readable and maintainable than the old 500 line do loops that we used to have in Fortran that turned into the 375 line for loops in Java. Anyway, so streams is a big one, a really big one for me. The biggest, I would say." He also valued the introduction of templates (generics) in Java 5 or 6, which represented a significant evolution in the language and allowed applying libraries to custom classes. He praised the Java community for keeping the platform and ecosystem viable, noting that the combination of an active developer community and a satisfied user base creates a virtuous cycle that keeps the platform evolving and improving: "There's enough Java programmers out there, enough people interested in the continuing viability of Java that they keep it going, that they modernize it, that they solve new problems with it, that they make it perform better than it ever has before." He added a "big shout out to the garbage collection people that do that amazing stuff," acknowledging the often-invisible work that performance engineers at Oracle do to make Java faster and more efficient for developers. Throughout the discussion, Chris talked at length about developers, the user community, and the technology. He has a nice habit of mixing the issues seamlessly. Check out this gem below where he beautifully concluded that Java is far more than a language because it's really a movement. "The user community is, generally speaking, pretty satisfied with it. And it's a broad enough user community. It's got people like me. It's got people still doing desktop Java. It's got people using it on servers. And there's a whole tool ecosystem out there. Personally, I prefer working right at the command line. I always have. But the application that I mentioned we built using NetBeans, which came out of Sun originally. And it's quite a nice IDE. I don't think it's the most popular one. It doesn't really matter. It's still a very nice one. And it gave us a big part of that long-term support. And lately, I find myself using other JVM languages. So it's not just Java. It's the JVM that underpins it, that has permitted a flowering of alternative approaches to things that, generally speaking, work very well together with Java. So, it's a pretty cool thing. It's a movement. It's not just a programming language." Consulting, Professionalism, and Cultural Differences On consulting and professionalism, Chris stresses the importance of contributing to the team to best serve customers. He cautions against embracing some Silicon Valley software mantras — such as "fail early, fail often" — when applied outside their intended prototyping context. "And I know failure is a thing that people talk about in software development. Fail early, fail often. But you don't hear consultants saying fail often. It's not a good look for a consulting company," he says. Instead, Chris focuses on engineering being technically excellent and using open communications to help ensure the team's success. "In a consulting organization, you really have to be a team player," he says. He clarifies that getting prototypes out for feedback certainly has merit: "Get something out there and [letting] people throw rocks at it and [recording] what they say [that's] false and recognize that, okay, you failed, but at least you moved the ball down the field. I'm a huge fan of prototyping." Throughout the years in his career Chris also observed cultural differences in problem-solving approaches around the world. He says that some cultures prefer abstract discussion while others focus on concrete data. "Never mind all these grand theories. Let's actually look what we have. And really, you know, like don't go down that rabbit hole either. Look at what you have and base things on the reality that you know about," he advises. He warns against getting lost in theoretical discussions: "Resist the old, you know, the medieval concept of how many angels on the head of a pin kind of thing. Just don't go there." The Human Side of Technology Work Chris emphasizes that technology work remains fundamentally human. Near the end of the conversation, Chris focuses what he sees as most important: "I would just emphasize maybe that we're human beings here and we're driven by our human desires and wills. And as you rightly pointed out, cultural things roll into that," he says. Despite all the technical discussion about tools, languages, methods, and preferences, the work is ultimately done by human beings with human needs and motivations. Cultural factors, listening skills, and collaborative team approaches matter as much as technical competence. "Remember, you spend a long time of your life at your job. And so, it's important that that contributes to your humanity and that your humanity contributes back." He encourages developers to remember their humanity throughout their careers, to contribute meaningfully to their teams and communities, and to avoid becoming caricatures of the latest corporate culture. "It's really important to remember that you're part of a group of human beings here. You don't want to be a Dilbert comic," he says, using the comic strip as a reference point for the dehumanized corporate worker trapped in absurd bureaucracy. On the importance of listening, Chris shares wisdom from a sign he saw years ago: "If God had intended man to speak more than he listened, he would have given him two mouths and one ear. Listen more, say less." When discussing custom solutions versus off-the-shelf tools, and after discussing how being familiar with algorithms allows you to blend approaches for better solutions, Chris delivers what became the title of the episode: "Basically, you know, if there's not something off the shelf that — Don't be afraid to create!" This is a message that Chris encourages all developers to embrace because they have such advanced skills right at their fingertips. Advice for Students: Learning Then and Now That creation framework extends to Chris's advice to students learning software development. Students today face different challenges than he did decades ago. Chris compared his learning experience years ago with his daughter's more recent computer science education. Modern students learn differently through sophisticated IDEs that suggest improvements and refactor code automatically, while Chris and his colleagues back in the day learned using only a command line, a text editor, and a compiler. "The difference is really striking between the two because the only tool we had was the command line, the text editor, and the compiler," he says. Modern IDEs provide capabilities like automatic refactoring and code suggestions that fundamentally change what students focus on during their education. He notes that learning with modern tools creates almost a different world than learning in his era: "And so it was really almost learning a different discipline for her than it was for me." He advises students to try multiple approaches to problem-solving and to explore all their options to apply their technical skills in many diverse fields. "And I think if there's a lesson to be taken from that, sometimes it might be fun once you've learned how to do something in the IDEs to try and do it the old way and see what it's like just creating from nothing, you know, and starting out that way. And vice versa, guys like me that always insist on using VI at the command line, we should learn an IDE. It's time." Finally, Chris reflects on the value of learning multiple approaches to solving problems. This goes beyond just technical skills to understanding the problem itself more deeply: "I think learning several different ways to solve a problem ultimately teaches you more about the problem. And learning more about the problem, I think, teaches you a bit about yourself and how you go about solving things and your value to your organization." During the entire conversation on technology, Chris consistently wove in the human element. We are people, after all. We're just using digital tools to create. Duke's Corner Java Podcast https://dukescorner.libsyn.com/site Jim Grisanzio, Host, Duke's Corner https://x.com/jimgris | https://grisanzio.com/duke/
This is a guest post by Glenn Ford from Man O' Kent Games.As an independent games designer and producer, a lot of my time involves visiting conventions to meet gamers and, ideally, sell my games to them. When I do so, it's always a surprise how little crossover there is between people who play board games, roleplaying games and miniatures games, which is a pity since I think all of them have something special to offer. So I'd like to take this chance to explain exactly what I think is so special about miniatures games for anyone who doesn't necessarily play, or even consider them.Read the full article here: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/2025/12/16/mini-magic-the-human-side-of-miniatures-games-topic-discussion/Useful LinksMan O' Kent Games: https://www.manokentgames.com/Brass: Birmingham review: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/2023/04/01/brass-birmingham-deluxe-saturday-review/MusicIntro Music: Bomber (Sting) by Riot (https://www.youtube.com/audiolibrary/)Music: bensound.comLicense code: WD13LCGM6FNILKVKArtist: : Yunior ArronteMusic: Bensound.com/free-music-for-videosLicense code: LMRF2RZLAGT3LGJ2Artist: : Yunior ArronteSupportIf you want to support this podcast financially, please check out the links below:Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/TabletopGamesBlogPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/tabletopgamesblogWebsite: https://tabletopgamesblog.com/support/(Photo by Samuel Fortin on Unsplash)
In Season 3, Navigating Major Programmes expanded the podcast's primary goal—to go beyond the tools and frameworks of program delivery into the humanity behind it—with amazing results. In this wrap-up episode, Riccardo reviews the past year, celebrating the panelists, guests, and listeners who make the show possible. He highlights salient points from Uncharted Conversations and Master Builders, points that truly capture the breadth and depth these collaborators have achieved, both behind the mic and every day in their roles as leaders and innovators.With nearly twice as many episodes and double the weekly listeners from Season 2, the 2025 season gave Riccardo and his co-hosts and guests so many opportunities to explore both the big picture thinking and practical applications that are shaping—and shaking up—the industry today. In January 2026, Navigating Major Programmes will return for season 4 with even more inspiring stories, game-changing ideas, and disruptive conversations about the future of program management.Disclaimer: Navigating Major Programmes believes in adapting with technological advances. This episode was narrated by an AI-generated voice of the program host.Key Takeaways:What this season taught the hosts about what you—the listener—want to hear;Riccardo's favourite episodes, to listen back on during the break;What to expect in season 4, including a brand new series. Quote:“The future of this industry will be built by those who lead with humanity.” - Riccardo CosentinoThe conversation doesn't stop here—connect and converse with our community via LinkedIn:Listen to Episode 4, The Human Side of Major Projects with Melissa Di Marco: https://navigating-major-programmes-2a01b27b.simplecast.com/episodes/the-human-side-of-major-projects-with-melissa-di-marco-master-builders-s3-ep4Listen to Episode 10, The Powerful Impact of Specialization and Dedication on Long-Haul Projects with Wendy Itagawa: https://navigating-major-programmes-2a01b27b.simplecast.com/episodes/the-powerful-impact-of-specialization-and-dedication-on-long-haul-projects-with-wendy-itagawaListen to Episode 16, Public–Private Partnerships Part 2: Contracts, Contractors, and True Collaboration: https://navigating-major-programmes-2a01b27b.simplecast.com/episodes/publicprivate-partnerships-part-2-contracts-contractors-and-true-collaborationFollow Navigating Major Programmes: https://www.linkedin.com/company/navigating-major-programmes/Follow Riccardo Cosentino on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cosentinoriccardo/Read Riccardo's latest at: https://riccardocosentino.com/ Music: "A New Tomorrow" by Chordial Music. Licensed through PremiumBeat.
Big Variety Old Time Radio Podcast. (OTR) Presented by Chemdude
Human Side of a Cop
This episode of Automate IT brings together the most meaningful conversations from 2025 – stories and insights that defined the year.From early career breakthroughs to lessons learned through repetition, these moments reveal the human side of IT work while delivering practical takeaways on automation, visibility, consistency, patching, and day-to-day problem solving.You'll hear how IT leaders built confidence, shaped better processes, and navigated increasingly complex environments. These clips capture the ideas that resonated most – and the perspectives shaping the future of modern endpoint management.In this 2025 highlights compilation, you'll learn:How IT pros approach automation and workflow consistencyReal stories behind early career growth and hard-earned lessonsWhat builds confidence in high-pressure IT environmentsPractical tactics for patching, visibility, and operational excellenceTrends driving modern endpoint management in 2025If you're an IT admin, security professional, or technology leader looking for real-world insights – this episode brings together the moments that mattered most.
In this episode of the Shift AI Podcast, Michael Domanic, Head of AI at UserTesting, joins host Boaz Ashkenazy to explore how companies can successfully transform their organizations with AI. With over 800 custom GPTs built across UserTesting and nearly every employee actively using AI tools, Michael shares the framework behind one of the most successful enterprise AI transformations happening today.From his early days designing chatbots during the first AI hype cycle to leading transformation at scale today, Michael offers invaluable insights into why AI transformation is fundamentally a change management and creative challenge—not just a technological one. The conversation delves into the responsibility companies have to their workforce during this historic transformation, the importance of democratizing AI access, and why focusing on human creativity and experimentation is the key to unlocking real value. If you're looking to understand how to drive meaningful AI adoption in your organization while keeping humanity at the center, this episode is essential listening.Chapters:[00:00] The Human Side of AI and Creativity[02:00] Michael's Background and the First Chatbot Wave[04:00] First Jobs: From Lifeguard to Telemarketer[05:00] What is UserTesting and How It Works[08:00] The Challenge of Enterprise AI Adoption[11:00] Why Multiple AI Models and 800+ Custom GPTs[15:00] Change Management Over Technology[19:00] AI's Impact on Jobs and Employee Responsibility[22:00] Growth Mindset vs. Scarcity in AI Strategy[24:00] Healthcare and the Future of AI[27:00] Two Words for the Future: Human and Creativity[29:00] Measuring ROI in AI TransformationConnect with Michael DomanicLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/michaeldomanic/Connect with Boaz AshkenazyLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/boazashkenazyEmail: info@shiftai.fm
In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, hosts Robin Bailey and Al McDonald welcome Neena Gupta, Partner at Gowling WLG and one of Canada's most respected voices in employment, labour, and human rights law. Neena brings a refreshingly human lens to the legal world, blending precision with empathy, mentorship, and real-world practicality. Neena shares her journey as a South Asian woman in law, her passion for mentoring the next generation, and how trust in leadership is built at the intersection of competence and kindness. Together, they explore today's workplace challenges including generational shifts, inflation pressures, hybrid work, recruitment struggles, and the evolving definition of work life balance. The conversation also dives into what foreign companies must understand when expanding into Canada, the importance of strong employment agreements, and why proactive legal relationships save time, money, and stress. Neena closes with a powerful reflection on community, service, and planting trees for future generations through her leadership with United Way. This episode is a grounded, insightful masterclass on leadership, people-first systems, and building businesses with integrity in complex economic times. You'll hear about: Neena's path into law and mentoring young professionals Why trust is built through competence and kindness Generational shifts in work life balance and employee expectations The real challenges employers face with recruitment and retention How inflation is impacting employees and businesses across Canada Why hybrid work is here to stay Key pitfalls for foreign companies expanding into Canada The importance of employment agreements as risk management tools How to build a proactive relationship with your lawyer Planting trees for the future through community leadership and service We talk about: 00:00 Introduction 03:00 Neena's journey into law and mentoring young professionals 05:30 Balancing legal precision with personal approachability 07:30 Trust at the intersection of competence and kindness 09:30 Recruitment, retention, and generational workplace shifts 12:00 Inflation pressures on employees and employers 14:30 Hybrid work, flexibility, and modern leadership 17:00 Expanding into Canada, legal pitfalls and must know foundations 20:00 Employment agreements and foreign employer risk management 22:30 Benefits, compliance, and cross border considerations 25:00 How to work effectively with your lawyer 28:00 Building proactive legal relationships 30:00 Planting trees through mentoring and community leadership 32:30 Neena's work with United Way and giving back 35:00 Final reflections on leadership, service, and purpose Connect with Neena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neena-gupta-0107aa4 Website: https://gowlingwlg.com/en-ca Connect with Us LinkedIn: Robin Bailey and Al McDonald Website: Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group
Send us a textIn this Office Hours episode, Optidge SEO Manager, Dorit Sasson, shares how her experience abroad as a lieutenant in the Israel Defense Forces shaped her collaborative, team-focused approach to digital marketing and SEO strategy. Drawing from her vast experience teaching, writing, and working with Fortune 500 B2B companies, Dorit discusses how to find ranking opportunities in competitive markets through educational and multimedia-rich content. She also reflects on SEO's evolution in the age of AI, emphasizing the importance of balancing innovation with proven best practices. Listeners will walk away with practical insights for managing expectations, earning stakeholder buy-in, and achieving long-term SEO success. An Optidge "Office Hours" EpisodeOur Office Hours episodes are your go-to for details, how-to's, and advice on specific marketing topics. Join our fellow Optidge team members, and sometimes even 1:1 teachings from Danny himself, in these shorter, marketing-focused episodes every few weeks. Get ready to get marketing!Episode Highlights: Dorit's time in the military instilled a team-first mindset that shapes her approach to SEO, valuing humility, adaptability, and collective success over individual recognition. Her transition from teaching ESL to mastering SEO highlights how teaching and mentorship reinforce expertise, and how curiosity fuels long-term growth in a fast-paced field. Dorit's attention to detail when it comes to page rankings suggests there is untapped potential using educational content, glossaries, and multimedia engagements. While AI has revolutionized SEO strategy, Dorit emphasizes that technology should amplify creativity and understanding, not replace it. Dorit stresses the importance of managing expectations, communicating value, and positioning SEO as a long-term investment in sustained business growth. Episode Links:Dorit Sasson on LinkedInOptidge's SEO ServicesFollow The Digital Marketing Mentor: Website and Blog: thedmmentor.com Instagram: @thedmmentor Linkedin: @thedmmentor YouTube: @thedmmentor Interested in Digital Marketing Services, Careers, or Courses? Check out more from the TDMM Family: Optidge.com - Full Service Digital Marketing Agency specializing in SEO, PPC, Paid Social, and Lead Generation efforts for established B2C and B2B businesses and organizations. ODEOacademy.com - Digital Marketing online education and course platform. ODEO gives you solid digital marketing knowledge to launch/boost your career or understand your business's digital marketing strategy.
Follow Tiankai on Linkedin!Follow us on Instagram and on LinkedIn!Created by SOUR, this podcast is part of the studio's "Future of X,Y,Z" research, where the collaborative discussion outcomes serve as the base for the futuristic concepts built in line with the studio's mission of solving urban, social and environmental problems through intelligent designs.Make sure to visit our website and subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Google Podcasts so you never miss an episode. If you found value in this show, we would appreciate it if you could head over to iTunes to rate and leave a review – or you can simply tell your friends about the show!Don't forget to join us next week for another episode. Thank you for listening!
Bram Berkien (@bramberkien) is a Dutch photographer celebrated for his ability to capture the human side of elite sports. As the official photographer for Visma-Lease a Bike (formerly Jumbo-Visma), Bram has spent the last seven years documenting the world's top cyclists, including their highs, lows, and everything in between at the Tour de France.In this episode, Bram shares what it's like to work behind the scenes with some of the most dedicated athletes on the planet. From the trust it takes to photograph intimate moments on the team bus to the creative challenges of balancing action shots, sponsor content, and personal storytelling, Bram reveals the art of capturing authenticity in high-pressure environments. We also explore his journey from stacking suitcases at an airport to photographing cycling's biggest stage, the lessons he's learned from elite athletes, and why the human side of sport is where the real magic happens.Expect to Learn:How to build trust with high-profile subjectsHow to anticipate key moments at eventsHow to balance multiple roles as a photographerLessons from elite athletes on sacrifice and perseverance Why behind-the-scenes moments can create more compelling stories than traditional action photographyBram's Website: https://bramberkien.com/Sponsors:Thanks to Tamron for sponsoring this episode! Check out their brand-new 25-200mm F/2.8 all-in-one zoom lens for Sony E-mount, perfect for travel and everyday shooting. Learn more at www.tamron-americas.comThanks to the National Park Foundation for sponsoring today's episode. Enter the Share the Experience photo contest for a chance to win $10,000 and prizes from Celestron, Historic Hotels of America, and YETI. The grand prize winner's photo could be featured on the America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass.Submit your best shots now at sharetheexperience.org/tpmOur Links:Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions:https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_USThanks for listening!Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused.@sethmacey@mantis_photography@thephotographermindsetSupport the show
In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, Dale and Christophe commemorate Pearl Harbor Day, focusing on the personal, lesser-told stories from December 7, 1941. They explore the human experiences of sailors, marines, nurses, airmen, and civilians during the attack, offering insights into the emotional and psychological impact of the event. The script also delves into the harrowing efforts of survivors and rescue teams, the rapid salvage and rebuilding operations, and the lasting legacy of resilience and unity forged that day. The episode concludes with reflections on the broader significance of Pearl Harbor, emphasizing its enduring influence on the US Navy and the nation.
In this episode, we explore the questions people are often afraid to ask out loud — the confusing, intimate, and deeply human moments that shape our relationships. From wondering if you've ever truly been in love, to navigating sticky boundaries, to deciding whether to stay or leave… we're going there. We grouped your questions into three core themes to make the conversation grounded, digestible, and honest.
Let us know what you think! Text us!SPONSORED BY: TITAN SARMS, PRECISION WELLNESS GROUP, and THE SPECIAL FORCES FOUNDATIONIn this episode, Deny Caballero sits down with former Navy SEAL Zack Ferguson for a raw, vulnerable look at the realities behind the Trident. Zack shares his journey through BUD/S, the grit required to push through adversity, and the hidden struggles that followed—addiction, family challenges, identity loss, and the difficulty of transitioning out of the Teams. Together, they break down the importance of community, asking for help, and finding purpose after service. This conversation is a powerful reminder that even elite warriors are human—and healing starts with connection.
Joshua Kornitsky is a fourth-generation entrepreneur and Professional EOS Implementer® with more than 20 years of experience across technology, strategy, and business leadership. His career began in the automotive industry alongside his father, giving him early exposure to the complexities of running a family business. From there, he expanded into IT, software development, training, and […]
In this episode of the Unlearn Podcast, I sit down with Cass Pratt, Chief Human Resources Officer at Progyny, to explore how HR is evolving into a design discipline that blends human connection with AI-powered productivity. From building bots to boost employee experience to reshaping how we think about roles in an automated world, Cass shares an honest look at how she's bringing people along on a transformation journey—with curiosity, experimentation, and heart.We discuss her pivotal decision to say yes to opportunities beyond her comfort zone, the strategic shifts she's leading inside a fast-scaling company, and why the future of HR is about enhancing humanity, not replacing it. If you're wondering what leadership looks like when AI meets empathy, this one's for you.Key TakeawaysUnlearning expertise-dependence: Cass shifted from relying on experts to co-creating solutions with AI tools before engaging others.AI as a force for elevation: At Progyny, AI is used to give employees time back, not take roles away—enabling deeper focus on human-centric work.Low-code leadership: Cass, a self-described non-technical leader, built HR bots and reimagined policies through practical AI applications.Scaling culture through consistency: AI chatbots improved response times, standardized answers, and gave insight into employee concerns.Embedding experimentation: Teams are encouraged to ask, "What should I stop doing?"—sparking a culture of reinvention and initiative.Additional InsightsProgyny's “Super Fans” initiative reframes AI gains as an opportunity to deepen customer and employee relationships.Training is done in cohorts to build shared understanding and reduce AI anxiety.Cross-functional collaboration with junior team members—like the intern who built the HR bot—shows how innovation can come from any level.Cass uses AI to simplify and globalize complex frameworks like competency models, improving alignment across teams and geographies.Episode Highlights00:00 – Episode Recap Cassandra Pratt shares how embracing discomfort led her to leap into healthcare, build a transformative HR function, and lead with AI—not to eliminate roles, but to elevate people and amplify their impact.02:37 – Guest Introduction: Cassandra Pratt Barry introduces Cass Pratt, Chief People Officer at Progyny, a fertility and family-building benefits company scaling rapidly with a human-first, tech-empowered culture.04:48 – Saying Yes to Growth Cass reflects on a missed opportunity that taught her the cost of saying no—and set her on a path to jump into unknowns with conviction.08:04 – Startup Lessons and Leadership Growth From 50 to 850 employees, Cass shares what it means to grow with a company and embrace mistakes as part of the journey.11:00 – Diving into AI Without a Tech Background Despite lacking technical skills, Cass threw herself into generative AI—learning by doing and discovering intuitive ways to drive value.13:10 – Unlearning the Expert Reflex Cass rethinks her default of turning to experts first—instead starting with AI to shape stronger ideas and bring others in as collaborators.15:13 – Redesigning Processes, Not Just Tools AI opened up opportunities to rethink workflows from scratch, not just automate existing inefficiencies.20:35 – Making AI Safe and Human Cass shares how transparent messaging, training, and cultural reinforcement helps ease AI anxieties and keep
Our guest on the podcast today is Dan Haylett, who's the author of a new book called The Retirement You Didn't See Coming. Dan is a financial planner and head of growth for TFP Financial Planning based in the UK. Dan focuses on financial planning, retirement planning, and life planning for people over age 50. He also hosts a podcast called Humans vs. Retirement that is centered on the behavioral aspects of retirement. Prior to joining TFP, Dan occupied several positions in the asset management industry. Dan, welcome back to The Long View.BackgroundBioHumans vs. Retirement podcastThe Retirement You Didn't See Coming: The Guide to the Human Side of Retirement Nobody Warns You AboutTFP Financial Planning“Dan Haylett: Retirement Planning = Life Planning,” The Long View podcast, Morningstar.com, Dec. 5, 2023.Retirement and Happiness“Can You Afford to Retire?—3 Questions to Ask Yourself!” Humans vs. Retirement video, youtube.com, June 2025.“The Fragile Decade: Retirement's Danger Zone,” by Dan Haylett, humansvsretirement.com, June 30, 2025.“Your Brain Has Two Sides. Retirement Needs Both,” by Dan Haylett, linkedin.com, October 2025.“A Plan for Your First 12 Months in Retirement,” Humans vs. Retirement video, youtube.com, 2024.“Few and Deep: The Retirement Lens That Changes Everything,” by Dan Haylett, humansvsretirement.com, Sept. 9, 2025.“Why Retirement Can Feel More Like a Void Than a Victory,” by Dan Haylett, humansvsretirement.com, March 28, 2025.“The Best Things in Retirement Aren't Things at All,” by Dan Haylett, humansvsretirement.com, Feb. 6, 2025.“Don't Let the Fear of the Future Steal Your Retirement Joy,” by Dan Haylett, humansvsretirement.com, Jan. 14, 2025.“Longevity and Brevity: The Two BIGGEST Risks in Retirement,” by Dan Haylett, humansvsretirement.com, Sept. 3, 2024.OtherMichael Finke Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of the HAYVN Hubcast, Nancy sits down with seasoned executive recruiter Darcy Ahl, who shares her winding career path—from writing romance-novel blurbs to working in brand management and advertising, and ultimately building a 20-year career in executive search where she is currently partner at Ahl, Berrien & Partners. Darcy offers grounded insights on what has changed (and what has not) in recruiting, the continued importance of EQ (Emotional Intelligence), and how relationships fuel her national cross-industry success. Key Takeaways Relationships drive business: Darcy works across industries thanks to decades-long relationships, referrals, and her personalized, high-touch approach. The role of technology: Tools and platforms have changed dramatically, but Darcy cautions against mass-posting jobs—most hires still come from curated networks, not hundreds of irrelevant applicants. Current challenges in mission-driven industries: Across many impact-oriented sectors, raising capital has become more challenging — but the caliber of talent and conviction in these fields remains remarkably strong. The shifting workplace: Post-COVID dynamics continue to evolve; hybrid isn't guaranteed anymore, with many companies pushing back to the office—impacting retention, especially among women. Leadership priorities: Companies increasingly seek leaders with turnaround experience, strong communication, and the ability to guide organizations through rapid change. Future workforce predictions: Despite the rise of AI, Darcy believes humans—particularly middle and upper managers—will remain essential. "AI can write a great job description, but it can't tell me what makes someone tick." In a hiring landscape defined by constant change, Darcy's perspective is a refreshing reminder that while tools and trends will continue to evolve, the heart of executive search remains deeply human. Her emphasis on empathy, relationships, and genuine curiosity underscores what truly drives successful placements and thriving careers. Whether you're a job seeker, a business leader, or simply navigating your next professional chapter, Darcy's insights offer both clarity and encouragement for the road ahead. Connect with Darcy LInkedIn Website Connect with Nancy LinkedIn Instagram Website
True leadership starts with how you make people feel. In this episode of Real Things Living, host Brigitte Cutshall sits down with Taylor Scott, founder of Lead with Hospitality and author of "Give Hospitality."Taylor shares how his career in the hospitality industry—and lessons learned from Walt Disney World—shaped his belief that the best leaders focus on making people feel welcome, comfortable, and important.Takeaways:* Why genuine kindness is a leader's greatest strength.* The difference between being “nice” and being authentically kind.* How generosity and curiosity fuel better leadership and connection.“Great leaders aren't great because of their leadership-ness—they're great because of their humanness.” – Taylor ScottConnect with Taylor: https://leadwithhospitality.comInstagram @tscott1502
What if your next “competitive edge” as a company wasn't innovation or efficiency—but compassion?In this eye-opening episode of The Flourishing Edge, Ashish Kothari sits down with David Shapiro to unpack how recovery-friendly workplaces are redefining what it means to truly support employees.From mental health to substance use recovery, David reveals why inclusion, belonging, and psychological safety aren't “nice-to-haves”—they're the foundation of human flourishing at work. Together, they explore how stigma, stress, and hidden workplace norms silently fuel substance misuse—and how small cultural shifts can create massive change.
It's one of the most disturbing human patterns in modern power: the moment people stop serving truth and start serving the system. In this special episode of Hidden Killers, I'm joined by Robin Dreeke — retired FBI Special Agent and former Chief of the Counterintelligence Behavioral Analysis Program — to dissect the psychology of obedience and betrayal that defines institutional cover-ups like the DOJ's handling of the Epstein investigation. Together, we explore how moral corrosion starts — one rationalization at a time. Why good people inside the system convince themselves silence is professionalism. And how institutions weaponize credibility to protect predators while punishing truth-tellers. Robin explains the behavioral dynamics behind groupthink, the survival instinct of bureaucracies, and why moral courage often dies in the shadow of career survival. We're not talking conspiracy — we're talking human nature: fear, ego, loyalty, and the desperate need to belong. The same forces that keep intelligence agencies running can also make them blind. This is about more than Epstein. It's about what happens when justice itself becomes a brand — and the people inside forget what they signed up to protect. #HiddenKillers #RobinDreeke #DOJ #FBI #EpsteinCase #InstitutionalBetrayal #PsychologyOfPower #BehavioralAnalysis #JusticeSystem #MoralCourage Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@hiddenkillerspod Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspod X Twitter https://x.com/tonybpod Listen Ad-Free On Apple Podcasts Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-crime-today-premium-plus-ad-free-advance-episode/id1705422872
Hidden Killers With Tony Brueski | True Crime News & Commentary
It's one of the most disturbing human patterns in modern power: the moment people stop serving truth and start serving the system. In this special episode of Hidden Killers, I'm joined by Robin Dreeke — retired FBI Special Agent and former Chief of the Counterintelligence Behavioral Analysis Program — to dissect the psychology of obedience and betrayal that defines institutional cover-ups like the DOJ's handling of the Epstein investigation. Together, we explore how moral corrosion starts — one rationalization at a time. Why good people inside the system convince themselves silence is professionalism. And how institutions weaponize credibility to protect predators while punishing truth-tellers. Robin explains the behavioral dynamics behind groupthink, the survival instinct of bureaucracies, and why moral courage often dies in the shadow of career survival. We're not talking conspiracy — we're talking human nature: fear, ego, loyalty, and the desperate need to belong. The same forces that keep intelligence agencies running can also make them blind. This is about more than Epstein. It's about what happens when justice itself becomes a brand — and the people inside forget what they signed up to protect. #HiddenKillers #RobinDreeke #DOJ #FBI #EpsteinCase #InstitutionalBetrayal #PsychologyOfPower #BehavioralAnalysis #JusticeSystem #MoralCourage Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@hiddenkillerspod Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspod X Twitter https://x.com/tonybpod Listen Ad-Free On Apple Podcasts Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-crime-today-premium-plus-ad-free-advance-episode/id1705422872
It's one of the most disturbing human patterns in modern power: the moment people stop serving truth and start serving the system. In this special episode of Hidden Killers, I'm joined by Robin Dreeke — retired FBI Special Agent and former Chief of the Counterintelligence Behavioral Analysis Program — to dissect the psychology of obedience and betrayal that defines institutional cover-ups like the DOJ's handling of the Epstein investigation. Together, we explore how moral corrosion starts — one rationalization at a time. Why good people inside the system convince themselves silence is professionalism. And how institutions weaponize credibility to protect predators while punishing truth-tellers. Robin explains the behavioral dynamics behind groupthink, the survival instinct of bureaucracies, and why moral courage often dies in the shadow of career survival. We're not talking conspiracy — we're talking human nature: fear, ego, loyalty, and the desperate need to belong. The same forces that keep intelligence agencies running can also make them blind. This is about more than Epstein. It's about what happens when justice itself becomes a brand — and the people inside forget what they signed up to protect. #HiddenKillers #RobinDreeke #DOJ #FBI #EpsteinCase #InstitutionalBetrayal #PsychologyOfPower #BehavioralAnalysis #JusticeSystem #MoralCourage Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@hiddenkillerspod Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspod X Twitter https://x.com/tonybpod Listen Ad-Free On Apple Podcasts Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-crime-today-premium-plus-ad-free-advance-episode/id1705422872
It's one of the most disturbing human patterns in modern power: the moment people stop serving truth and start serving the system. In this special episode of Hidden Killers, I'm joined by Robin Dreeke — retired FBI Special Agent and former Chief of the Counterintelligence Behavioral Analysis Program — to dissect the psychology of obedience and betrayal that defines institutional cover-ups like the DOJ's handling of the Epstein investigation. Together, we explore how moral corrosion starts — one rationalization at a time. Why good people inside the system convince themselves silence is professionalism. And how institutions weaponize credibility to protect predators while punishing truth-tellers. Robin explains the behavioral dynamics behind groupthink, the survival instinct of bureaucracies, and why moral courage often dies in the shadow of career survival. We're not talking conspiracy — we're talking human nature: fear, ego, loyalty, and the desperate need to belong. The same forces that keep intelligence agencies running can also make them blind. This is about more than Epstein. It's about what happens when justice itself becomes a brand — and the people inside forget what they signed up to protect. #HiddenKillers #RobinDreeke #DOJ #FBI #EpsteinCase #InstitutionalBetrayal #PsychologyOfPower #BehavioralAnalysis #JusticeSystem #MoralCourage Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@hiddenkillerspod Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspod X Twitter https://x.com/tonybpod Listen Ad-Free On Apple Podcasts Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-crime-today-premium-plus-ad-free-advance-episode/id1705422872
Hidden Killers With Tony Brueski | True Crime News & Commentary
It's one of the most disturbing human patterns in modern power: the moment people stop serving truth and start serving the system. In this special episode of Hidden Killers, I'm joined by Robin Dreeke — retired FBI Special Agent and former Chief of the Counterintelligence Behavioral Analysis Program — to dissect the psychology of obedience and betrayal that defines institutional cover-ups like the DOJ's handling of the Epstein investigation. Together, we explore how moral corrosion starts — one rationalization at a time. Why good people inside the system convince themselves silence is professionalism. And how institutions weaponize credibility to protect predators while punishing truth-tellers. Robin explains the behavioral dynamics behind groupthink, the survival instinct of bureaucracies, and why moral courage often dies in the shadow of career survival. We're not talking conspiracy — we're talking human nature: fear, ego, loyalty, and the desperate need to belong. The same forces that keep intelligence agencies running can also make them blind. This is about more than Epstein. It's about what happens when justice itself becomes a brand — and the people inside forget what they signed up to protect. #HiddenKillers #RobinDreeke #DOJ #FBI #EpsteinCase #InstitutionalBetrayal #PsychologyOfPower #BehavioralAnalysis #JusticeSystem #MoralCourage Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@hiddenkillerspod Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspod X Twitter https://x.com/tonybpod Listen Ad-Free On Apple Podcasts Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-crime-today-premium-plus-ad-free-advance-episode/id1705422872
- Introduction and AI Integration (0:00) - Introduction of X Peng's Humanoid Robot (2:23) - Technical and Psychological Aspects of Humanoid Robots (24:29) - Potential Uses and Challenges of Humanoid Robots (24:57) - Impact of AI on Employment and Economy (30:58) - Economic Consequences and Political Implications (36:21) - Song Release and Musical Style (38:05) - Analysis of Election Results and Economic Conditions (47:19) - Future of Work and AI Integration (1:05:40) - Digital ID and Surveillance Concerns (1:05:59) - Decentralized Living and Privacy Measures (1:27:37) - Advantages of Local AI Engines (1:28:30) - Steps to Protect Privacy and Assets (1:29:55) - Alternatives to Windows and Google (1:31:46) - Free Pro-Freedom Tools and Resources (1:33:06) For more updates, visit: http://www.brighteon.com/channel/hrreport NaturalNews videos would not be possible without you, as always we remain passionately dedicated to our mission of educating people all over the world on the subject of natural healing remedies and personal liberty (food freedom, medical freedom, the freedom of speech, etc.). Together, we're helping create a better world, with more honest food labeling, reduced chemical contamination, the avoidance of toxic heavy metals and vastly increased scientific transparency. ▶️ Every dollar you spend at the Health Ranger Store goes toward helping us achieve important science and content goals for humanity: https://www.healthrangerstore.com/ ▶️ Sign Up For Our Newsletter: https://www.naturalnews.com/Readerregistration.html ▶️ Brighteon: https://www.brighteon.com/channels/hrreport ▶️ Join Our Social Network: https://brighteon.social/@HealthRanger ▶️ Check In Stock Products at: https://PrepWithMike.com
Send us a textIn this powerful and deeply personal episode of Taco Bout Fertility Tuesday, Dr. Mark Amols opens up about something doctors rarely say out loud — that we have feelings too.Step behind the white coat to hear the human side of fertility care: the burnout that comes with modern medicine, the emotional weight of every failed cycle, and the reality of being judged not by effort, but by outcomes. Dr. Amols shares raw stories about patient misunderstandings, communication breakdowns, and the painful impact of online reviews that don't always reflect the truth.This episode is an honest conversation about empathy — for both patients and doctors — reminding us that medicine isn't perfect, but the people behind it care more than you'll ever know.