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Gustavo Razzetti: Forward Talk Gustavo Razzetti is a culture change instigator, speaker, and CEO of Fearless Culture, a culture design consultancy. He helps leaders build teams that talk about what matters—even when it's uncomfortable–through his books and tools, including the Culture Design Canvas. He is the author of Forward Talk: The Bold New Method for Getting Teams Unstuck (Amazon, Bookshop)*. The beauty of a team is that we can get so much more done with collaboration. It also means that sometimes we surrender our responsibility to others. In this conversation, Gustavo and I explore what to do when a team gets stuck. Key Points Conversations are the foundation of collaboration. Without them, teams quickly build conversational debt. We don't stay silent because we're scared. Rather, we stay quiet because we surrender our responsibility to others. Many of us overestimate our courage. We believe that we'll say something, but studies show that often we do not. Forward Talk accomplishes two things: (1) addresses the real issue and (2) focuses on the future. See information as an opportunity instead of an obstacle. Courage can begin with admitting what you don't know. Perspective is the choice to share your views instead of surrendering your judgment to social pressure. Responsibility is a commitment to understand the systemic issues instead of entering into blame. Resources Mentioned Forward Talk: The Bold New Method for Getting Teams Unstuck by Gustavo Razzetti (Amazon, Bookshop)* Interview Notes Download my interview notes in PDF format (free membership required). Related Episodes Getting Better at Internal Communication, with Roy Schwartz (episode 687) Help Your Team Coach Each Other, with Keith Ferrazzi (episode 709) What Really Matters for Team Success, with Colin Fisher (episode 748) Discover More Activate your free membership for full access to the entire library of interviews since 2011, searchable by topic. To accelerate your learning, uncover more inside Coaching for Leaders Plus.
Send us Fan MailNonprofit storytelling strategy for donor engagement starts with clarity—not more content. If your organization is struggling to connect with donors, volunteers, or even your own board, the issue may not be effort—it's alignment.In this sparkling conversation, Marivi Bryant, Founder and President of Home Agency, shares how nonprofits can transform storytelling into a strategic business tool that drives engagement, trust, and action. Instead of chasing tactics, she explains why organizations must first define their core pillars and communicate a consistent, authentic message.“If they don't understand what you stand for, then it's very difficult to feel connected to you.” That insight cuts to the heart of a major challenge across the sector—nonprofits are often doing incredible work, but their messaging is fragmented, diluted, or unclear.Through real-world examples, including a case study involving mission confusion at a well-known organization, Marivi highlights how inconsistent messaging can lead to misunderstanding—even when impact is strong. The solution? Focus, discipline, and a willingness to say no. As she puts it, “We can't be everything for everyone—we need to figure out what our pillars are.”This conversation also explores how to:Use storytelling to strengthen top-of-funnel awarenessAlign internal teams and boards around a unified messageLeverage owned channels like email and social media for measurable engagementBalance data and narrative without losing authenticityFor nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, and marketers, this learning session offers a clear operational takeaway: before you measure impact, before you scale outreach, you must clarify what you stand for! 00:00:00 Introduction to Storytelling Strategy 00:03:30 Why Nonprofits Struggle with Messaging Clarity 00:05:20 The Sales Funnel Applied to Nonprofits 00:06:30 Case Study: Confusion from Poor Messaging 00:08:20 Tactics vs Strategy in Storytelling 00:10:40 Competing in the Attention Economy 00:12:20 Authenticity and Brand Alignment 00:14:40 “Everything for Everyone” Problem 00:17:00 Measuring Engagement with Owned Channels 00:19:00 Aligning Programs Under One Brand 00:21:00 Who Owns Messaging in a Nonprofit? 00:23:00 Internal Communication and Board Alignment Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show
How does your company communicate with its employees today? Richard chats with Emily Mancini about her work with companies that manage internal communications. Emily talks about the power of email, collaborative messaging like Teams, and the Microsoft Viva products Engage and Amplify. The conversation digs into knowing where your people look for info, how they communicate, and what they want to connect with. Being able to measure the response to different communication means helps you to work on better messages and methods - the goal is to enable employees to connect with and utilize the resources of the organization, creating a stronger company culture! Links Microsoft Viva Engage Microsoft Viva Amplify Create and Send a News Digest Recorded March 9, 2026
EPISODE 185 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix Internal communications is at an inflection point in 2026. This episode breaks down the six major trends redefining the profession – from helping employees navigate continuous, layered change to understanding why every internal message must now pass a "screenshot test." With change fatigue ranking as one of the biggest workforce challenges, communicators who shift from event-based messaging to ongoing orientation frameworks will drive real impact. To thrive in this rapidly evolving landscape, IC professionals need to rethink not just their tactics, but their entire professional identity. Learn why change fatigue is now a top workforce challenge and how to combat it Consider using AI as a strategic partner, not just a writing tool Explore why the internal-external boundary has collapsed Hear about the emerging trend of microcommunities and employee-led comms Avoid common pitfalls as you craft your communications plan See the full transcript Get tips in our Guide to Better Communications in the Agile Workplace
In this episode of Aerospace Unplugged, guest host Matt Hassan, Director of Internal Communications, sits down with David Allvin, recently retired four-star general and the 23rd Chief of Staff of the United States Air Force.Together, they explore how the global defense environment is shifting as threats become more interconnected and contested, and what that means for the United States and its allies.They also discuss why alliances, coalition operations, and true interoperability are becoming mission-critical, and examine the growing role of Collaborative Combat Aircraft in maintaining air dominance. Episode Highlights:The Evolution of Global Defense and Why Rethinking Modern Defense is KeyLearn how the defense environment has evolved over the past 40 years, and why speed, adaptability and iteration now matter more than perfect, long-lived platforms in an era of accelerating change.Why Agility is the Defining Advantage of the Next Decade From leadership and culture to acquisition and technology, explore why agility is a critical enabler for faster decisions, smarter risk‑taking, and sustained deterrence.Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) and the Future of Air Dominance Dive into how CCAs reshape airpower by enabling human‑machine teaming, accelerating operational tempo, and helping the U.S. and its allies maintain air dominance in increasingly contested environments.Industry, Government, and Allies: Accelerating Together Explore how closer collaboration, open architectures, and interoperability—designed in from the start—are essential to maintaining global security and coalition effectiveness.
Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) is one of the world's best-known and most extraordinary not-for-profit organisations. One of its core principles is témoignage – to bear witness, to share. Communication, therefore, sits at the very heart of its mission and as Head of Internal Communications, Eva Kongs leads efforts to communicate with staff responding to some of the world's most devastating crises. From an internal communications perspective, this is a challenge like few others. 130 different nationalities. A truly frontline workforce setting up field hospitals, mobile clinics and improving sanitation in disaster zones. And an extraordinary range of roles – from medical professionals to drivers, accountants to anthropologists, fundraisers to architects. In this special episode, Katie Macaulay and Eva (a long-time Internal Comms Podcast fan) discuss transcreation, how print at Médecins Sans Frontières has made a clever comeback, how experience can be more important than position and having a clear purpose. Don't miss it. Tune in and share your thoughts – use #TheICPodcast
Internal communication has travelled a fascinating road over the past two decades from being overlooked or undervalued, to becoming mission-critical during the COVID pandemic. But as the spotlight intensified, so did the pressure.In this episode of the Less Chatter, More Matter podcats, we're joined by Rachel Miller, founder of All Things IC, Fellow of the Institute of Internal Communication, and author of Internal Communication Strategy. With more than 20 years' experience in internal communication, Rachel shares a candid and thoughtful perspective on where the profession stands today.Together, they explore how COVID elevated the visibility of internal comms, the unintended consequences of “always on” communication, and why it may be time to reset the rhythm. Rachel unpacks some of the most persistent myths about internal communication, including the idea that it's just about sending information, that it can't be measured, or that it belongs to one team alone.Rachel also explains her Miller Framework for building effective internal communication strategies, discusses the importance of accessible and inclusive communication, and offers practical advice for those looking to enter or grow within the profession.Hear more on the evolution of internal comms.Links mentioned in this episode:Rachel's websiteRachel's LinkedIn90 minute Strategy Power SessionPublic workshops and trainingLess Chatter, More Matter - Mel's bookTemplate packsChange Isn't Hard! - Mel's bookSign up here to the fortnightly mail out of free resources!Say hi!Follow me on LinkedInFind out what I'm up to InstagramCheck out my websiteAsk a question
In this episode of the HR Leaders Podcast, we sit down with Sarah Stary, Vice President Global Head of People and Organisation and Internal Communications at Swisslog Healthcare. Sarah breaks down what it really takes to lead transformation in a complex global business. She explains why standardizing the basics, especially onboarding and recruiting, became a high-impact priority, how her team built global consistency with local nuance, and why too many leaders still get distracted by innovation before fixing the fundamentals.Sarah also shares a more important leadership lesson. Do not rush to prove your value in the first 90 days. Instead, she argues that credibility is built by listening, traveling, understanding culture, and making changes that fit the business you are actually in, not the one you just left. The conversation also explores clear communication, trust-building, team autonomy, shared services, AI adoption, and culture integration inside the broader KUKA group.
Episode Notes In this insightful interview, Monique Zytnik discusses the critical role of leadership communication, the responsibilities of managers, and how stress and organizational structures impact effective information flow within companies. Our Guest: Monique Zytnik Monique Zytnik is a Berlin-based global communication leader and award-winning author of Internal Communication in the Age of Artificial Intelligence (Business Expert Press, 2024). With more than 25 years' experience across technology, government and multinational organisations, she partners with senior executives to translate complex strategy into clear, compelling narratives. Her work spans internal communication, executive and board-level speechwriting, and leadership positioning during transformation. Monique believes communication is not a support function, but core infrastructure when certainty disappears.. References: Monique Zytnik Likedin profile www.moniquezytnik.com Listen to the next Episode All Podcast Episodes
Relationships at Work - the Employee Experience and Workplace Culture Podcast
In this episode of Relationships at Work, Russel Lolacher speaks with Alejandra Ramirez, founder of Ready Cultures, about why internal communication often fails in organizations.They discuss how misaligned messaging damages workplace culture, why clarity matters in leadership communication, and how Alejandra's Head–Heart–Hands framework helps leaders communicate what's happening, why it matters, and what teams should do next.Hey! If you're enjoying the insights from our guests, you'll love our R@W Notes Newsletter. It's packed with guest takeaways, the resources that inspire them, and my own tips on how we as leaders can be better humans for the humans the are responsible for. Go to RelationshipsAtWorkShow.com and Subscribe Now and help the workplace be more human. Want more from our conversations on the show? Subscribe to the R@W Notes Newsletter! It's where I share top takeaways from our guests, the resources that fuel their success, and my personal insights on how we as leaders more human. And we need more human. Go to RelationshipsAtWorkShow.com and Sign up today to keep your leadership journey on the right path. And connect with me for more great content! Sign Up for R@W Notes Subscribe on Youtube Follow on Linkedin Follow on Instagram Follow me on Threads Follow on TikTok Email me anytime
Episode Notes Monique Zytnik explores why internal communication is the “lifeblood” of organizational health, especially during transformation. The discussion breaks down common misconceptions, the weight of leadership responsibility, and the high cost of failing to align corporate words with actual deeds Our Guest: Monique Zytnik Monique Zytnik is a Berlin-based global communication leader and award-winning author of Internal Communication in the Age of Artificial Intelligence (Business Expert Press, 2024). With more than 25 years' experience across technology, government and multinational organisations, she partners with senior executives to translate complex strategy into clear, compelling narratives. Her work spans internal communication, executive and board-level speechwriting, and leadership positioning during transformation. Monique believes communication is not a support function, but core infrastructure when certainty disappears.. References: Monique Zytnik Likedin profile www.moniquezytnik.com Listen to the next Episode All Podcast Episodes
Global economic uncertainty shows no sign of abate and most organisations face a challenging 2026. Headcount and budgets are under intense scrutiny and internal communication carries the additional threat of, in some quarters, GenerativeAI offering a plausible and more cost-efficient alternative to human contribution. Under such intense pressure, how can internal communicators successfully advocate for the value they bring? This episode, Dom. Cat and Jen chat with Colin Archer, Head of Communications for Spirax Sarco. With a wealth of experience spanning several decades, Colin succinctly argues against using ROI to measure internal communication. This is both transactional and reductivist. A more effective measure is that of impact – showcasing the powerful effect that the thoughtful use of words and language can have on human behaviour. About Colin Archer Colin Archer has worked in Internal Communications across different sectors and industries and loves working with people and cultures. His reason for working in the profession comes from a strongly held view that if we are to spend such a lot of our life in work, then we should enjoy it and certainly not waste any of the precious hours we have in something which doesn't make us feel good. His strategies encourage deep personal connection with purpose, and with other people, to achieve significant steps forward for the organisations he has worked with. A Fellow of the IoIC and great believer in extending our sphere of influence to make things better for everyone who is touched by our work, Colin cares deeply about bringing people and ideas together through impactful communication Find Colin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colin-archer-fiic-072a306/
Sue Serna - Social Media Security and Governance Leader and Lover of All BeaglesNo Password Required Season 7: Episode 2 - Sue SernaSue Serna is the CEO and Founder of Serna Social and the former head of global social media at Cargill. She brings more than two decades of experience at the intersection of storytelling, strategy, and security.In this episode, she shares her journey from business reporter to leading her own consultancy serving companies around the world on social media strategy.Jack Clabby of Carlton Fields, P.A, joined by guest co-host Rex Wilson of Cyber Florida, welcomes Sue for a candid discussion about the realities of enterprise social media. From managing more than 150 Facebook pages for a single company, to navigating internal politics, agency relationships, and regulatory pressure, Sue explains why social media is far from “free” and why most organizations still under-resource it.Sue dives deep into the gap between social media teams and cybersecurity departments. She outlines how personal account compromises can escalate into enterprise-level incidents, why governance frameworks matter, and how large organizations can regain control of sprawling digital footprints. Drawing from real-world examples, she argues that social media must be treated like finance or HR, a core business function requiring structure, ownership, and accountability.The episode wraps with the Lifestyle Polygraph, where Sue reveals her love of Apollo-era space history, debates iconic Philadelphia traditions, and imagines what magical talent her beagle would bring to Hogwarts.Follow Sue at SernaSocial.com or connect with her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sueserna/ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and First Impressions 02:45 The Evolving Role of Social Media in Corporations 04:58 Transitioning from Journalism to Social Media 11:11 Building Social Media from Scratch 13:00 Becoming a CEO and Founder 16:28 The Importance of Networking 16:54 Bridging the Gap Between Social Media and Cybersecurity 20:51 Real-World Social Media Security Incidents 28:35 Navigating Internal Conflicts in Social Media 30:32 The Lifestyle Polygraph Begins 31:17 Nerd Things That Expose Sue: Space and Harry Potter! 35:16 Sue's Love For Beagles 37:50 Wreckless Intern or Overconfident Executive? 40:42 Hogwarts and Magical Beagles
We are excited to welcome Villa Maria Academy alumna Kate Mastrian Kanne ‘89, Senior Vice President of Enterprise Internal Communications at UnitedHealth Group, on as a guestfor The Rambler Podcast.With nearly three decades of leadership experience in health care, business strategy, and communications, Kate shares her journey from her time at Villa to leading enterprise-wideengagement for one of the largest health care organizations in the country. From marketing and brand leadership to shaping culture and employee experience at scale, her career reflects discipline, adaptability, and a deep understanding of how communication drives impact. In this episode, Kate reflects on the foundation built during her years at Villa, the professional pivots that shaped her path, and the leadership lessons she's learned along the way about preparation, resilience, serving others, and staying grounded in what matters most. It's an inspiring conversation for anyone striving to lead with clarity, purpose, and integrity!
In this episode, I'm joined by Mandy Mooney — author, corporate communicator, and performer — for a wide-ranging conversation about mentorship, career growth, and how to show up authentically in both work and life. We talk about her path from performing arts to corporate communications, and how those early experiences shaped the way she approaches relationships, leadership, and personal authenticity. That foundation carries through to her current role as VP of Internal Communications, where she focuses on building connections and fostering resilience across teams. We explore the three pillars of career success Mandy highlights in her book Corporating: Three Ways to Win at Work — relationships, reputation, and resilience — and how they guide her approach to scaling mentorship and helping others grow. Mandy shares practical strategies for balancing professional responsibilities with personal passions, and why embracing technology thoughtfully can enhance, not replace, human connection. The conversation also touches on parenting, building independence in children, and the lessons she's learned about optimism, preparation, and persistence — both in the workplace and at home. If you're interested in scaling mentorship, developing your career with intention, or navigating work with authenticity, this episode is for you. And if you want to hear more on these topics, catch Mandy speaking at Snafu Conference 2026 on March 5th. 00:00 Start 02:26 Teaching Self-Belief and Independence Robin notes Mandy has young kids and a diverse career (performing arts → VP of a name-brand company → writing books). Robin asks: "What are the skills that you want your children to develop, to stay resilient in the world and the world of work that they're gonna grow up in?" Emphasis on meta-skills. Mandy's response: Core skills She loves the question, didn't expect it, finds it a "thrilling ride." Observes Robin tends to "put things out there before they exist" (e.g., talking about having children before actually having them). Skill 1: Envisioning possibilities "Envision the end, believe that it will happen and it is much more likely to happen." Teaching children to see limitless possibilities if they believe in them. Skill 2: Independence Examples: brushing their own hair, putting on clothes, asking strangers questions. One daughter in Girl Scouts: learning sales skills by approaching strangers to sell cookies. Independence builds confidence and problem-solving abilities for small and big life challenges. Skill 3: Self-belief / Self-worth Tied to independence. Helps children navigate life and career successfully. Robin asks about teaching self-belief Context: Mandy's kids are 6 and 9 years old (two girls). Mandy's approach to teaching self-belief Combination of: Words Mandy uses when speaking to them. Words encouraged for the children to use about themselves. Example of shifting praise from appearance to effort/creativity: Instead of "You look so pretty today" → "Wow, I love the creativity that you put into your outfit." Reason: "The voice that I use, the words that I choose, they're gonna receive that and internalize it." Corrective, supportive language when children doubt themselves: Example: Child says, "I'm so stupid, I can't figure out this math problem." Mandy responds: "Oh wow. That's something that we can figure out together. And the good news is I know that you are so smart and that you can figure this out, so let's work together to figure it out." Asking reflective questions to understand their inner thoughts: Example: "What's it like to be you? What's it like to be inside your head?" Child's response: "Well, you worry a lot," which Mandy found telling and insightful. Emphasizes coming from a place of curiosity to check in on a child's self-worth and self-identity journey. 04:30 Professional Journey and Role of VP of Internal Comms Robin sets up the question about professional development Notes Mandy has mentored lots of people. Wants to understand: Mandy's role as VP of Internal Communications (what that means). How she supports others professionally. How her own professional growth has been supported. Context: Robin just finished a workshop for professionals on selling themselves, asking for promotions, and stepping forward in their careers. Emphasizes that she doesn't consider herself an expert but learns from conversations with experienced people like Mandy. Mandy explains her role and path Career path has been "a winding road." Did not study internal communications; discovered it later. Finds her job fun, though sometimes stressful: "I often think I might have the most fun job in the world. I mean, it, it can be stressful and it can't, you know, there are days where you wanna bang your head against the wall, but by and large, I love my job. It is so fun." Internal communications responsibility: Translate company strategy into something employees understand and are excited about. Example: Translate business plan for 2026 to 2,800 employees. Team's work includes: Internal emails. PowerPoints for global town halls. Speaking points for leaders. Infusing fun into company culture via intranet stories (culture, customers, innovation). Quick turnaround on timely stories (example: employee running seven marathons on seven continents; story created within 24 hours). Storytelling and theater skills are key: Coaching leaders for presentations: hand gestures, voice projection, camera presence. Mandy notes shared theater background with Robin: "You and I are both thespian, so we come from theater backgrounds." Robin summarizes role Sounds like a mix of HR and sales: supporting employee development while "selling" them on the company. Mandy elaborates on impact and mentorship Loves making a difference in employees' lives by giving information and support. Works closely with HR (Human Resources) to: Provide learning and development opportunities. Give feedback. Help managers improve. Wrote a book to guide navigating internal careers and relationships. Mentorship importance: Mentors help accelerate careers in any organization. Mandy's career journey Started studying apparel merchandising at Indiana University (with Kelley School of Business minor). Shifted from pre-med → theater → journalism → apparel merchandising. Took full advantage of career fairs and recruiter networking at Kelley School of Business. "The way that I've gotten jobs is not through applying online, it's through knowing somebody, through having a relationship." First role at Gap Inc.: rotational Retail Management Training Program (RMP). Some roles enjoyable, some less so; realized she loved the company even if some jobs weren't ideal. Mentor influence: Met Bobby Stillton, president of Gap Foundation, who inspired her with work empowering women and girls. Took a 15-minute conversation with Bobby and got an entry-level communications role. Career growth happened through mentorship, internal networking, and alignment with company she loved. Advice for her daughters (Robin's question) Flash-forward perspective: post-college or early career. How to start a career in corporate / large organizations: Increase "luck surface area" (exposure to opportunities). Network in a savvy way. Ask at the right times. Build influence to get ahead. Mentorship and internal relationships are key, not just applying for jobs online. 12:15 Career Advice and Building Relationships Initial advice: "Well first I would say always call your mom. Ask for advice. I'm right here, honey, anytime." Three keys to success: Relationships Expand your network. "You say yes to everything, especially early in your career." Examples: sit in on meetings, observe special projects, help behind the scenes. Benefits: Increases credibility. Shows people you can do anything. Reputation Build a reputation as confident, qualified, and capable. Online presence: Example: LinkedIn profile—professional, up-to-date, connected to network. Be a sponsor/advocate for your company (school, office, etc.). Monthly posts suggested: team photos, events, showing responsibility and trust. Offline reputation: Deliver results better than expected. "Deliver on the things that you said you were gonna do and do a better job than people expected of you." Resilience Not taught from books—learned through experience. Build resilience through preparation, not "fake it till you make it." Preparation includes: practicing presentations, thinking through narratives, blocking time before/after to collect thoughts and connect with people. "Preparation is my headline … that's part of what creates resilience." Mandy turns the question to Robin: "I wanna ask you too, I mean, Robin, you, you live and breathe this every day too. What do you think are the keys to success?" Robin agrees with preparation as key. Value of service work: Suggests working in service (food, hospitality) teaches humility. "I've never met somebody I think even ever in my life who is super entitled and profoundly ungrateful, who has worked a service job for any length of time." Robin's personal experience with service work: First business: selling pumpkins at Robin's Pumpkin Patch (age 5). Key formative experience: running Robin's Cafe (2016, opened with no restaurant experience, on three weeks' notice). Ran the cafe for 3 years, sold it on Craigslist. Served multiple stakeholders: nonprofit, staff (~15 employees), investors ($40,000 raised from family/friends). Trial by fire: unprepared first days—no full menu, no recipes, huge rush events. Concept of MI Plus: "Everything in its place" as preparation principle. Connecting service experience to corporate storytelling: Current business: Zandr Media (videos, corporate storytelling). Preparation is critical: Know who's where, what will be captured, and what the final asset looks like. Limited fixes in post-production, even with AI tools. Reinforces importance of preparation through repeated experience. Advice for future children / young people: Robin would encourage service jobs for kids for months or a year. Teaches: Sleep management, personal presentation, confidence, energy. "Deciding that I'm going to show up professionally … well … energetically." Emphasizes relentless optimism: positivity is a superpower. Experience shows contrast between being prepared and unprepared—learning from both is crucial. 16:36 The Importance of Service Jobs and Resilience Service jobs as formative experience: Worked as a waitress early in her career (teenager). Describes it as "the hardest job of my life". Challenges included: Remembering orders (memory). Constant multitasking. Dealing with different personalities and attitudes. Maintaining positivity and optimism through long shifts (e.g., nine-hour shifts). Fully agrees with Robin: service jobs teach humility and preparation. Optimism as a superpower: "I totally agree too that optimism is a superpower. I think optimism is my superpower." Writes about this concept in her book. Believes everyone has at least one superpower, and successful careers involve identifying and leaning into that superpower. Robin asks about the book Why did Mandy write the book? Inspiration behind the book? Also wants a deep dive into the writing process for her own interest. Mandy's inspiration and purpose of the book Title: "Corporating: Three Ways to Win At Work" Primary goal: Scale mentorship. Realized as she reached VP level, people wanted career advice. Increased visibility through: Position as VP. Connection with alma mater (Indiana University). Active presence on LinkedIn. Result: Many young professionals seeking mentorship. Challenge: Not sustainable to mentor individually. Solution: Writing a book allows her to scale mentorship without minimizing impact. Secondary goals / personal motivations: Acts as a form of "corporate therapy": Reflects on first 10 years of her career. Acknowledges both successes and stumbles. Helps process trials and tribulations. Provides perspective and gratitude for lessons learned. Fun aspect: as a writer, enjoyed formatting and condensing experiences into a digestible form for readers. Legacy and contribution: "I had something that I could contribute meaningfully to the world … as part of my own legacy … I do wanna leave this world feeling like I contributed something positive. So this is one of my marks." 21:37 Writing a Book and Creative Pursuits Robin asks Mandy about the writing process: "What's writing been like for you? Just the, the process of distilling your thinking into something permanent." Mandy: Writing process and finding the "25th hour" Loves writing: "I love writing, so the writing has been first and foremost fun." Where she wrote the book: Mostly from the passenger seat of her car. She's a working mom and didn't have traditional writing time. Advice from mentor Gary Magenta: "Mandy, you're gonna have to find the 25th hour." She found that "25th hour" in her car. Practical examples: During birthday party drop-offs: "Oh good. It's a drop off party. Bye. Bye, honey. See you in two hours. I'll be in the driveway. In my car. If you need anything, please don't need anything." Would write for 1.5–2 hours. During Girl Scouts, swim, any activity. On airplanes: Finished the book on an eight-hour flight back from Germany. It was her 40th birthday (June 28). "Okay, I did it." Realization moment: "You chip away at it enough that you realize, oh, I have a book." Robin: On parents and prioritization Parents told him: "When you have kids, you just find a way." Children create: Stricter prioritization. A necessary forcing function. Mandy's self-reflection: "I believe that I am an inherently lazy person, to be totally honest with you." But she's driven by deadlines and deliverables. Kids eliminate "lazy days": No more slow Saturdays watching Netflix. "They get up. You get up, you have to feed these people like there's a human relying on you." Motherhood forces motivation: "My inherent laziness has been completely wiped away the past nine years." Writing happened in small windows of time. Importance of creative outlet: Having something for yourself fuels the rest of life. Examples: writing, crocheting, quilting, music. Creativity energizes other areas of life. Robin mentions The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss. Advice from that book: Have something outside your day job that fuels you. For Robin: Physical practice (gym, handstands, gymnastics, ballet, capoeira, surfing). It's a place to: Celebrate. Feel progress. Win, even if work is struggling. Example: If tickets aren't selling. If newsletter flops. If client relationships are hard. Physical training becomes the "anchor win." Mandy's writing took over two years. Why? She got distracted writing a musical version of the book. There is now: "Corporating: The Book" "Corporating: The Musical" Three songs produced online. Collaboration with composer Eric Chaney. Inspiration from book: Time, Talent, Energy (recommended by former boss Sarah Miran). Concept: we have limited time, talent, and energy. Advice: Follow your energy when possible. If you're flowing creatively, go with it (unless there's an urgent deadline). You'll produce better work. She believes: The book is better because she created the musical. Musical helps during speaking engagements. Sometimes she sings during talks. Why music? Attention spans are short. Not just Gen Z — everyone is distracted. Music keeps people engaged. "I'm not just gonna tell you about the three ways to win at work. I'm gonna sing it for you too." Robin on capturing attention If you can hold attention of: Five-year-olds. Thirteen-year-olds. You can hold anyone's attention. Shares story: In Alabama filming for Department of Education. Interviewed Alabama Teacher of the Year (Katie). She has taught for 20 years (kindergarten through older students). Observed: High enthusiasm. High energy. Willingness to be ridiculous to capture attention. Key insight: Engagement requires energy and presence. 28:37 The Power of Music in Capturing Attention Mandy's part of a group called Mic Drop Workshop. Led by Lindsay (last name unclear in transcript) and Jess Tro. They meet once a month. Each session focuses on improving a different performance skill. The session she describes focused on facial expressions. Exercise they did: Tell a story with monotone voice and no facial expressions. Tell the story "over the top clown like, go really big, something that feels so ridiculous." Tell it the way you normally would. Result: Her group had four people. "Every single one of us liked number two better than one or three." Why version two worked best: When people are emotive and expressive: It's more fun to watch. It's more entertaining. It's more engaging. Connection to kids and storytelling: Think of how you tell stories to five-year-olds: Whisper. Get loud. Get soft. Use dynamic shifts. The same applies on stage. Musical integration: Music is another tool for keeping attention. Helps maintain engagement in a distracted world. Robin: Hiring for energy and presence Talks about hiring his colleague Zach Fish. Technical producer for: Responsive Conference. Snafu Conference. Freelancer Robin works with often. Why Robin hires Zach: Yes, he's technically excellent. But more importantly: "He's a ball of positive energy and delight and super capable and confident, but also just pleasant to be with." Robin's hiring insight: If he has a choice, he chooses Zach. Why? "I feel better." Energy and presence influence hiring decisions. Zach's background: Teaches weekly acrobatics classes for kids in Berkeley. He's used to engaging audiences. That translates into professional presence. Robin: Energy is learnable When thinking about: Who to hire. Who to promote. Who to give opportunities to. Traits that matter: Enthusiasm. Positivity. Big energy. Being "over the top" when needed. Important insight: This isn't necessarily a God-given gift. It can be learned. Like music or performance. Like anything else. 31:00 The Importance of Positive Work Relationships Mandy reflects on: The tension between loud voices and quiet voices. "Oftentimes the person who is the loudest is the one who gets to talk the most, but the person who's the quietest is the one who maybe has the best ideas." Core question: How do you exist in a world where both of those things are true? Parenting lens: One daughter is quieter than the other. Important to: Encourage authenticity. Teach the skill of using your voice loudly when needed. It's not about changing personality. It's about equipping someone to advocate for themselves when necessary Book is targeted at: Students about to enter the corporate world. Early-career professionals. Intentional writing decision: Exactly 100 pages. Purpose: "To the point, practical advice." Holds attention. Digestible. Designed for distracted readers. Emotional honesty: Excited but nervous to reconnect with students. Acknowledges: The world has changed. It's been a while since she was in college. Advice she's trying to live: Know your audience Core principle: "Get to know your audience. Like really get in there and figure out who they are." Pre-book launch tour purpose: Visiting universities (including her alma mater). Observing students. Understanding: Their learning environment. Their day-to-day experiences. The world they're stepping into. Communication principle: Knowing your audience is essential in communications. Also essential in career-building. If you have a vision of where you want to go: "Try to find a way to get there before you're there." Tactics: Meet people in those roles. Shake their hands. Have coffee. Sit in those seats. Walk those halls. See how it feels. Idea: Test the future before committing to it. Reduce uncertainty through proximity. What if you don't have a vision? Robin pushes back thoughtfully: What about people who: Don't know what they want to do? Aren't sure about staying at a company? Aren't sure about career vs. business vs. stay-at-home parent? Acknowledges: There's abundance in the world. Attention is fragmented. Implied tension: How do you move forward without clarity? 35:13 Mentorship and Career Guidance How to help someone figure out what's next Start with questions, not answers A mentor's primary job: ask questions from a place of curiosity Especially when someone is struggling with what they want to do or their career direction Key questions: What brings you joy? What gives you energy? What's the dream? Imagine retirement — what does that look like? Example: A financial advisor made Mandy and her husband define retirement vision; then work backwards (condo in New Zealand, annual family vacations) Clarify what actually matters Distinguish life priorities: Security → corporate job; Teamwork → corporate environment; Variety and daily interaction → specific roles Mentoring becomes a checklist: Joy, strengths, lifestyle, financial expectations, work environment preferences Then make connections: Introduce them to people in relevant environments, encourage informational interviews You don't know what you don't know Trial and error is inevitable Build network intentionally: Shadow people, observe, talk to parents' friends, friends of friends Even experienced professionals have untapped opportunities Stay curious and do the legwork Mixing personal and professional identity Confidence to bring personal interests into corporate work comes from strategy plus luck Example: Prologis 2021, senior leaders joked about forming a band; Mandy spoke up, became lead singer CEO took interest after first performance, supported book launch She didn't always feel this way Early corporate years: Feel like a "corporate robot," worrying about jargon, meetings, email etiquette, blending in Book explores blending in while standing out Advice for bringing full self to work Don't hide it, but don't force it; weave into casual conversation Find advocates: Amazing bosses vs terrible ones, learn from both Mentorship shaped her framework: Relationships, reputation, and resilience Resilience and rejection Theater as rejection bootcamp: Auditions, constant rejection Foundations of resilience: Surround yourself with supportive people, develop intrinsic self-worth, know you are worthy Creating conditions for success Age 11 audition story: Last-minute opportunity, director asked her to sing, she sang and got the part Why it worked: Connections (aunt in play), parent support, director willing to take a chance, she showed up Resilience is not just toughing it out: Have support systems, build self-worth, seek opportunity, create favorable conditions, step forward when luck opens a door 44:18 Overcoming Rejection and Building Resilience First show experiences Robin's first stage production is uncertain; she had to think carefully At 17, walked into a gymnastics gym after being a cross country runner for ten years, burnt out from running Cold-called gyms from the Yellow Pages; most rejected her for adult classes, one offered adult classes twice a week That led to juggling, circus, fencing, capa, rock climbing — a "Cambrian explosion" of movement opportunities About a year and a half later, walked into a ballet studio in corduroy and a button-up, no ballet shoes; first ballet teacher was Eric Skinner at Reed College, surrounded by former professional ballerinas First internal college production was his first show; ten years later performed as an acrobat with the San Francisco Opera in 2013, six acrobats among 200 people on stage, four-hour shows with multiple costume changes and backflips Relationship to AI and the evolving world of work Mandy never asks her daughters "What do you want to be?" because jobs today may not exist in the future Focus on interests: plants, how things are built, areas of curiosity for future generations Coaching her team: Highly capable, competent, invested in tools and technology for digital signage, webinars, emails, data-driven insights, videos Approach AI with cautious optimism: Adopt early, embrace technology, use it to enhance work rather than replace it Example: Uses a bot for scheduling efficiency, brainstorming; enhances job performance by integrating AI from day one Advice: Approach AI with curiosity, not fear; embrace tools to be smarter and more efficient, stay ahead in careers 53:05 Where to Find Mandy Mandy will be speaking at Snafu Conference on March 5, discussing rejection and overcoming it. Author and speaking information: mandymooney.com LinkedIn: Mandy Mooney Music available under her real name, Mandy Mooney, on streaming platforms.
Drop us a message!In this episode, we're joined by Emma Gordon, Director at Bydand Strategic Communications, to explore how ambitious brands turn big ideas into clear, actionable communication strategies.Emma shares how strong internal communications help teams stay aligned during growth and change, and what bringing colleagues along the journey unlocks for trust, culture, and reputation.We also discuss how leaders are rethinking AI training, where it fits into day-to-day work, and how advisors decide where to focus first across growth marketing, reputation management, and strategy.In the news segment, Phil Treagus-Evans, CEO at Giraffe Social, breaks down the rise of personal branding. Learn how marketers can support founders and employees to build credibility on platforms like LinkedIn and TikTok, without losing individuality or brand alignment.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM. About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 Podcast Giraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail. Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes. Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!
One of my favorite things about Tangle is the process that happens before publication — the one our readers and listeners never get to see.I've been thinking a lot about this in recent months: How much debate, dialogue, and discussion goes into everything we publish. How much I learn from the conversations we have pre-publication. How desperately our country needs more of what I believe our staff models every day. I also think a lot about how trust in the media is at an all-time low, and all the innovative ways organizations like ours could try to win that trust back.Ad-free podcasts are here!To listen to this podcast ad-free, and to enjoy our subscriber only premium content, go to ReadTangle.com to sign up!You can subscribe to Tangle by clicking here or drop something in our tip jar by clicking here. Our Executive Editor and Founder is Isaac Saul. Our Executive Producer is Jon Lall.This podcast was hosted by: Isaac Saul and audio edited and mixed by Dewey Thomas. Music for the podcast was produced by Diet 75.Our newsletter is edited by Managing Editor Ari Weitzman, Senior Editor Will Kaback, Lindsey Knuth, Bailey Saul, and Audrey Moorehead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
SUMMARY: In this episode of Ops Experts, Aaron Hovivian and Terryn Turner break down the anatomy of a smooth-running business by outlining five core systems that operations leaders must own to support scale. They focus on how operators can cut through noise, support high-vision entrepreneurs, and move from reactive triage to proactive structure. The conversation centers on creating clarity, protecting focus, and building foundations that allow visionaries to move fast without breaking the business. The five systems covered include metrics and visibility, task and project management, internal communications, hiring and onboarding, and fulfillment. Aaron and Terryn explain how clear dashboards, disciplined project tools, defined communication lanes, repeatable hiring processes, and tight fulfillment systems reduce friction across teams and improve customer experience. The episode provides a practical framework for operators who want to regain control, create leverage, and build businesses that scale without chaos. Minute by Minute: 00:00 Introduction and Daily Routines 02:02 The Anatomy of a Smooth Running Business 05:06 Metrics and Visibility 09:46 Task and Project Management 13:24 Internal Communications 17:13 Hiring and Onboarding 21:06 Fulfillment and Customer Experience
In episode 319 of The Just Checking In Podcast we checked in with Caroline Roodhouse. Caroline is an Internal Communications professional, mother, mental health advocate and Founder of Daddy Blackbird Communications. Caroline was brought into the world of mental health advocacy when her husband Steve and the father of her two children, tragically took his own life on Monday 12 November 2018. Steve had no history of prior mental illness and the suicide and the violent method of it turned Caroline and her children's world upside down. Broken by grief, Caroline started the journey of putting her life back together, navigate her journey of suicide loss and become a single mother to her two daughters. She also began her education on suicide and suicidality, which culminated in the publication of her incredible book ‘Daddy Blackbird: The True Story of A Family Surviving and Thriving After Loss by Suicide' in 2024. In this episode we talk about the story of how she and Steve met, how they fell in love, and starting a family together. We talk about the man Steve was, the factors which may have led to his suicide and the day he took his own life. We explore how this suicide grief affected her mental health, all of the emotions she felt towards Steve, including some natural but stigmatised ones and how she moved forward following his death. With her two children, Caroline talks about the ‘strength of a triangle' in representing their family unit now. We then discuss how she took this grief and channelled it into starting Daddy Blackbird Communications, writing the book and the advocacy work she does now. We finish by discussing the work she is doing to remove outdated language like ‘committed suicide' from the Oxford Dictionary and her work with the charity Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS). As always, #itsokaytovent You can purchase a copy of Daddy Blackbird here: https://shorturl.at/jC0y7 You can follow Caroline on social media below: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-roodhouse-mcipr-a5948622/ Support Us: Patreon: www.patreon.com/venthelpuk PayPal: paypal.me/freddiec1994?country.x=GB&locale.x=en_GB Merchandise: www.redbubble.com/people/VentUK/shop Music: @patawawa - Strange: www.youtube.com/watch?v=d70wfeJSEvk
Internal communications is not about messages.It's about alignment.In this episode, Chris Willis talks with Keith Berman about how internal communications creates real business impact, even when attribution is messy. They unpack why alignment drives retention, productivity, and customer experience, how communicators act as the connective tissue of the business, and what leaders actually listen for when evaluating ROI.They also tackle AI. What it helps with. What it cannot replace. And why the hype cycle feels familiar to anyone who lived through the early 5G promises.For communicators who want to prove value, not volume.
Trust and empathy are critical leadership currencies in today's uncertain business landscape, especially when navigating internal communications and team dynamics.In this episode of High Octane Leadership, host Donald Thompson engages with Bianca Freedman, CEO of Edelman Canada, to explore effective leadership strategies, building trust, and creating psychological safety in the workplace. As the youngest regional CEO in Edelman's global network, Bianca shares insights from leading 300 employees across five offices and achieving strong double-digit growth.What You'll Learn:Build trust and alignment through clear, consistent communication—focusing on everyday messaging, visibility, and proximity with teams.Model psychological safety by addressing mistakes openly and prioritizing solutions over spin to maintain both internal and client trust.Lead with authenticity by grounding thought leadership in genuine curiosity and delivering real value.Accelerate career growth by excelling in current responsibilities while actively seeking learning opportunities for future roles.About the Guest(s)Bianca Freedman is the CEO of Edelman Canada, where she oversees strategy, operations, and culture across five offices and nearly 300 employees. Appointed in 2022 as the youngest regional CEO in Edelman's global network, she has led the organization to strong double-digit growth and numerous creative accolades, including top ranking at Cannes Lions 2024. Under her leadership, Edelman Canada has earned recognition as one of the best workplaces in Canada and best workplaces managed by women in 2025. In this episode, Bianca shares valuable insights on building trust in uncertain times, effective internal communications, and creating psychological safety in the workplace, drawing from her experience leading a major professional services organization through complex business environments. Her practical approach to leadership and focus on empathy-driven decision-making offers valuable lessons for both emerging and established business leaders.Resources:Bianca Freedman LinkedInEdelman LinkedInEdelman WebsiteHigh Octane Leadership is hosted by The Diversity Movement CEO and executive coach Donald Thompson and is a production of Earfluence.Order UNDERESTIMATED: A CEO'S UNLIKELY PATH TO SUCCESS, by Donald Thompson. High Octane Leadership is hosted by The Diversity Movement CEO and executive coach Donald Thompson and is a production of Earfluence.Order UNDERESTIMATED: A CEO'S UNLIKELY PATH TO SUCCESS, by Donald Thompson.
How do you go from newsroom bloopers to leading national brand strategy? In Part 2 of our conversation with Stephen Johnson, we dive into the moments that shaped his mindset: From losing a news package on deadline to designing fish-themed fantasy football merch for charity. Stephen opens up about self-taught creativity, pushing the boundaries of “safe” marketing, and how he balances compliance with storytelling. He also shares why industry leadership isn't about flashy promises, it's about consistency, communication, and delivering on what you said you would. Whether you're in B2B marketing, managing rapid growth, or just trying to keep your creative spark alive, Stephen's story is packed with practical knowledge. Plus, we settle the ultimate Rockford debate: Uncle Nick's or Portillo's?
This year, the IoIC published a new whitepaper to explore the future of internal communication. As the only professional body dedicated to internal communication, it is invested in understanding how workplace communication will change and what this means for its members. It strives to understand both risk and opportunity. Next-generation technology paves the way for doing more human work – work that no technology can replicate. In increasingly digital environments, fostering human connection to create the cultural conditions for peak performance and flourishing is set to become the most vital of organisational enablers. In this episode, Jen, Dom and Cat are interviewed by IoIC board member and fellow Joe Salmon. Together they discuss the factors driving change for internal communication and ways in which internal communicators can prepare for an altogether exciting future. Joe has over two decades of internal comms experience, including in-house, consultancy, and agency roles. He specialises in leadership communications, employee engagement, organisational culture, and communicating change. Joe is currently Director Corporate Communications at Iron Mountain. His career highlights include senior communication roles at Vodafone, BT, Inmarsat, Spotify, and Hill & Knowlton Strategies. In these roles, he designed and developed compelling employee campaigns to help global clients grow from the inside out by building pride, advocacy, a sense of belonging, and excitement. Joe is an elected Board Director and Fellow at the Institute of Internal Communications, a trailblazer for the UK Black Comms Network, and a mentor to others in the IC profession. He holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Internal Communication Management. He is also a regular event host, panelist, guest speaker, and awards judge, and was featured on the PRovoke Media Innovator 25 list. About Joe Salmon FIIC Joe has over two decades of internal comms experience, including in-house, consultancy, and agency roles. He specialises in leadership communications, employee engagement, organisational culture, and communicating change. Joe is currently Director Corporate Communications at Iron Mountain. His career highlights include senior communication roles at Vodafone, BT, Inmarsat, Spotify, and Hill & Knowlton Strategies. In these roles, he designed and developed compelling employee campaigns to help global clients grow from the inside out by building pride, advocacy, a sense of belonging, and excitement. Joe is an elected Board Director and Fellow at the Institute of Internal Communications, a trailblazer for the UK Black Comms Network, and a mentor to others in the IC profession. He holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Internal Communication Management. He is also a regular event host, panelist, guest speaker, and awards judge, and was featured on the PRovoke Media Innovator 25 list.
How do you scale a brand when you're also scaling a team, message, and mission? In this episode, I sit down with Stephen Johnson, Marketing expert, to talk about the real work behind growth and why it only works when your message is clear. Stephen shares his journey from local newsrooms to national marketing, reflecting on how his Rockford roots and journalism training built a foundation for fast, honest, human communication. From navigating mergers and onboarding 8,000+ new employees to running daily crisis comms and building internal trust, his story is one of clarity, collaboration, and staying grounded when everything grows. If you've ever wondered what it really takes to lead brand strategy across 30+ states, this episode is it.
Join Staffbase's Lottie Bazley as she sits down with Local Wisdom CEO Pinaki Kathiari for a deeply human conversation about clarity, communication, and the emotional reality of modern work. With nearly two decades of experience helping global brands turn dense and complex information into accessible content, Pinaki reveals the mindset behind simplifying without dumbing down, staying authentic without over-scripting, and communicating difficult messages with honesty and care. Lottie and Pinaki explore when empathy becomes over-protection, why clarity matters most during layoffs and reorgs, and how innovation is often born from discomfort. This episode also dives headfirst into today's hottest topic: AI. Pinaki breaks down why AI should act as a co-pilot — not a ghostwriter — and how over-reliance on automation is already eroding trust in the workplace. Packed with practical guidance and real-world examples, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone who wants to make work more human.
190: What does Formula One teach us about being an exceptional executive assistant and strategic partner at the top level? In this inspiring episode, Nicole Bearne shares her journey from supporting one of Formula One's most respected leaders to becoming a communications expert and business founder. She takes us behind the paddock doors to reveal what it's really like to work alongside Ross Brawn, Michael Schumacher, and Lewis Hamilton—where every second counts and preparation is everything. You'll discover how executive support plays a crucial role in leadership success, team communication, and resilience under pressure. Nicole also talks about reinventing herself, building The Comms Exchange, and empowering others to grow from EA to leadership roles. Plus, she discusses her mission to inspire more women to join motorsport through programs like Girls on Track and the F1 Academy. This episode is a masterclass in confidence, communication, and career evolution—for anyone ready to bring Formula One focus into their executive support role. --- About the Guest: Nicole Bearne has been at the forefront of Formula 1 motor racing for over 25 years, winning 9 World Championships with the Brawn Grand Prix and Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 teams. Her extensive motorsport experience includes executive and technical operations, Internal Communications, Employee Experience and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). She is also an Independent Non-Executive Director of Motorsport UK, the governing body of four-wheel motorsport in the UK. Nicole now leads The Comms Exchange, leveraging her F1 business experience and academic knowledge to help organisations build high-performing, people-centric cultures. She also runs 1-day workshops on Internal & Leadership Communication for EAs, PAs and Business Support professionals. Nicole holds a Master's degree in Organisational Behaviour and a CIPR Diploma in Internal Communication. She is a member of the Institute of Internal Communication, the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (MCIPR) and an Accredited PR Practitioner. Nicole is frequently invited to speak at Internal Communications, Employee Experience, Leadership and HR conferences in the UK, USA and Europe. Links:
Four acquisitions in six months? Most companies would call that ambitious. MSCI called it Tuesday.In this week's episode of the Only Constant, Allison Nelik discusses with Nellie Wartoft how they navigated the communications chaos of back-to-back M&A deals, from managing employee fears about job security to integrating entirely new cultures while maintaining business momentum.Connect with:Nellie WartoftCEO of TigerhallChair of the Executive Council for Leading Change (ECLC)nellie@tigerhall.com
When a crisis hits, words aren't enough — delivery is everything. In this episode, Athena Koutsonikolas sits down with culture strategist and crisis-leadership expert Eloiza Domingo, Founder & CEO of Eloiza Consulting and former Chief Inclusive Diversity & Equity Officer at Allstate. From mass layoffs to polarizing public issues, Eloiza explains how to decide whether to speak, who should deliver the message, and how tone, timing, and targeting can turn high-risk moments into lasting trust. Eloiza shares playbook-level guidance on aligning values with business strategy, weighing reputational risk against real-world impact, and designing communication that reaches every employee, including non-desk workers. With candid case examples and practical frameworks, this conversation gives leaders and communicators the tools to respond with courage, clarity, and care — no corporate jargon required.
If you had to choose between speed, transparency, or accuracy in your communications, which would you pick?In this week's episode of the Only Constant, Allison Nelik discusses with Nellie Wartoft how transparency has become the ultimate currency in change communications, why social media shifted our expectations of leadership authenticity, and practical strategies for balancing speed with accuracy when the world is moving fast.Connect with:Nellie WartoftCEO of TigerhallChair of the Executive Council for Leading Change (ECLC)nellie@tigerhall.com
Do you need to write an internal communication strategy? If you're not sure where to start, or the format it needs to be in, you're in the right place. In this podcast episode you'll discover one thing to know, one thing to do and one thing to think about, when it comes to creating an IC strategy. Full show notes can be found at www.allthingsic.com/podcast See the All Things IC Inner Circle page of Rachel's website to find out more about the next cohort: https://www.allthingsic.com/1-2-1/the-all-things-ic-inner-circle/ Order Rachel's books Rachel has written two books. Internal Communication Strategy: design, develop and transform your organizational communication is out now. You can order it via your favourite bookstore or find it online including Amazon (affiliate link), Waterstones, Barnes & Noble and Foyles. Or see the All Things IC website to order a signed limited edition. Her upcoming book, Successful Change Communication: how to inform, involve and inspire employees, will be published by Kogan Page in 2026. It is available to pre-order today from your favourite bookshop. Useful links: Add your name to receive Rachel's monthly Water Cooler newsletter. All show notes: allthingsic.com/podcast. Rachel's All Things IC website, featuring 1800 free blog posts. All Things IC Online Masterclasses, where you can enrol in training. Find Rachel on Instagram @rachelallthingsic or LinkedIn. Thank you for stopping by, Rachel Miller, Founder, All Things IC.
Amanda Cupido doesn't speak Spanish or French. But using AI, she and her team helped a global nonprofit make their internal podcast more accessible to as many employees as possible. Amanda is an audio producer and the founder of a production company called Lead Podcasting. One of her clients is a global nonprofit with over 35,000 employees—and not all of them speak English. So she made them a pitch: what if they added AI into the mix? They would make the podcast in English, and then use generative AI voice tools to translate it into Spanish and French—with a lot of human oversight, of course. Driven by a desire to use these tools for good, the goal was never to replace people, but to reach more people, and it worked.On this episode, Amanda shows what it's like—and what it sounds like—to make a podcast with AI that's still human at its core.You can learn more about Lead Podcasting at leadpodcasting.com~ ~ ~Working Smarter is brought to you by Dropbox Dash—the AI universal search and knowledge management tool from Dropbox. Learn more at workingsmarter.ai/dashYou can listen to more episodes of Working Smarter on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, or wherever you get your podcasts. To read more stories and past interviews, visit workingsmarter.aiThis show would not be possible without the talented team at Cosmic Standard: producer Dominic Girard, sound engineer Aja Simpson, technical director Jacob Winik, and executive producer Eliza Smith. Special thanks to our illustrators Justin Tran and Fanny Luor, marketing consultant Meggan Ellingboe, and editorial support from Catie Keck. Our theme song was composed by Doug Stuart. Working Smarter is hosted by Matthew Braga. Thanks for listening!
What is relevancy? Why does it matter for internal communication? Rachel has examined this topic in this episode of the Candid Comms podcast. Full show notes can be found at www.allthingsic.com/podcast Order Rachel's books Rachel has written two books. Internal Communication Strategy: design, develop and transform your organizational communication is out now. You can order it via your favourite bookstore or find it online including Amazon (affiliate link), Waterstones, Barnes & Noble and Foyles. Or see the All Things IC website to order a signed limited edition. Her upcoming book, Successful Change Communication: how to inform, involve and inspire employees, will be published by Kogan Page in 2026. It is available to pre-order today from your favourite bookshop. Useful links: Add your name to receive Rachel's monthly Water Cooler newsletter. All show notes: allthingsic.com/podcast. Rachel's All Things IC website, featuring 1800 free blog posts. All Things IC Online Masterclasses, where you can enrol in training. Find Rachel on Instagram @rachelallthingsic or LinkedIn. Thank you for stopping by, Rachel Miller, Founder, All Things IC.
Summary: In this episode of the Experience Revolution podcast, host Dave Murray speaks with Katie Osborne, co-owner and vice president of marketing for Alpenhaus. They discuss the evolution of Alpenhaus, a family-run business that has expanded from a ski shop to a retailer of various outdoor fun products. Katie shares insights on the importance of customer experience, the tools and processes they have implemented to enhance service, and how they engage employees in this mission. The conversation also touches on the significance of recognition and awards, the impact of the Customer Experience Executive Academy (CXEA), and the continuous improvement mindset that drives Alpenhaus forward. Katie offers valuable advice for newcomers to the customer experience field, emphasizing the need to start small and focus on pain points. Takeways: Alpenhaus has evolved from a ski shop to a diverse outdoor retailer. Customer experience is woven into the fabric of Alpenhaus. Tools and processes are essential for delivering great customer experiences. Engaging employees through videos and role-playing enhances service standards. Recognition of employees for service excellence is crucial. CXEA provided valuable insights and tools for success. Continuous improvement is necessary for maintaining high standards. Internal communication plays a key role in reinforcing customer experience. Anecdotes of exceptional customer service highlight the company's commitment. Starting with small, manageable changes can lead to significant improvements. Chapters: 00:00Introduction to Alpin Haus and Its Journey 02:41The Importance of Customer Experience 05:22Tools and Processes for Success 08:13Engaging Employees in Customer Experience 11:23Recognition and Awards for Service Excellence 14:05The Impact of CXEA on Alpenhaus 16:54Continuous Improvement in Customer Experience 19:30The Role of Internal Communication 22:25Anecdotes of Customer Service Success 25:08Future Plans for Customer Experience 28:02Advice for Newcomers to Customer Experience Links Customer Experience Executive Academy: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/project/cx-executive-academy/ Interview Questions: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/resources/ The DiJulius Group Methdology: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/x-commandment-methodology/ Experience Revolution Membership: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/membership/ Schedule a Complimentary Call with one of our advisors: tdg.click/claudia Books: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/shop/ Zappos call: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/is-zappos-really-that-good-at-customer-service-manager-fired-for-responses-to-online-reviewers/ Blogs on Above and Beyond Culture: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/category/above-beyond-culture/ Contacts: Lindsey@thedijuliusgroup.com , Claudia@thedijuliusgroup.com Subscribe We talk about topics like this each week; be sure to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts so you don't miss an episode.
What if your value proposition is costing you customers? In this episode of StrategyCast, learn how to build bold, resonant messaging that speaks to real human needs, adapts to changing markets, and gets your whole team aligned for breakthrough brand results!And don't forget! You can crush your marketing strategy with just a few minutes a week by signing up for the StrategyCast Newsletter. You'll receive weekly bursts of marketing tips, clips, resources, and a whole lot more. Visit https://strategycast.com/ for more details.==Let's Break It Down==06:56 "Marketing Insights: From Enterprise to Nonprofit"07:53 Nonprofit vs. For-Profit Principles11:02 "Strategic Marketing Framework Development"14:16 Influential Decision Makers Boost Sales19:23 "Six Elements Framework for Customer Insight"23:14 "Differentiation Through Superior Outcomes"27:22 Phased Value Proposition Validation28:18 Internal Communication and Customer Insight31:21 Unexpected Product Feedback Challenge35:42 "Lead with Data-Driven Insights"38:10 Early Problem Identification Benefits==Where You Can Find Us==Website: https://strategycast.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strategy_cast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strategycast==Leave a Review==Hey there, StrategyCast fans!If you've found our tips and tricks on marketing strategies helpful in growing your business, we'd be thrilled if you could take a moment to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback not only supports us but also helps others discover how they can elevate their business game!
Who should write an internal communication strategy? Does it have to be the most senior comms pro? What inputs should you use? Rachel has discussed this topic in detail in this episode of her Candid Comms podcast. Full show notes can be found at www.allthingsic.com/podcast Order Rachel's books Rachel has written two books. Internal Communication Strategy: design, develop and transform your organizational communication is out now. You can order it via your favourite bookstore or find it online including Amazon (affiliate link), Waterstones, Barnes & Noble and Foyles. Or see the All Things IC website to order a signed limited edition. Her upcoming book, Successful Change Communication: how to inform, involve and inspire employees, will be published by Kogan Page in 2026. It is available to pre-order today from your favourite bookshop. Use the code CANDIDCOMMS to remove 25% at the checkout. Useful links: Add your name to receive Rachel's monthly Water Cooler newsletter. All show notes: allthingsic.com/podcast. Rachel's All Things IC website, featuring 1800 free blog posts. All Things IC Online Masterclasses, where you can enrol in training. Find Rachel on Instagram @rachelallthingsic or LinkedIn. Thank you for stopping by, Rachel Miller, Founder, All Things IC.
What happens when you take the leap of faith and actually trust your workforce to engage with internal comms?In this week's episode of the Only Constant, Allison Nelik discusses with Nellie Wartoft how to overcome the control mindset in internal communications, why two-way feedback drives transformation success, and how to create an internal news outlet that employees actually want to engage with.Connect with:Nellie WartoftCEO of TigerhallChair of the Executive Council for Leading Change (ECLC)nellie@tigerhall.com
Why is internal communication important during an organisational crisis? Rachel welcomes Alison Arnot to the Candid Comms podcast. Alison is an award-winning consultant, trainer, speaker and author with over 25 years' experience in PR, internal communication and crisis communication. Based in Scotland and working globally, she is a specialist in internal crisis communication preparedness and training, and author of Internal Communication in Times of Crisis: How to secure employee trust, support and advocacy in crisis situations. During this interview, Rachel and Alison discuss what crisis comms is, how to reduce harm and the crucial role of internal communication. Full show notes can be found at www.allthingsic.com/podcast Order Rachel's books Rachel has written two books. Internal Communication Strategy: design, develop and transform your organizational communication is out now. You can order it via your favourite bookstore or find it online including Amazon (affiliate link), Waterstones, Barnes & Noble and Foyles. Or see the All Things IC website to order a signed limited edition. Her upcoming book, Successful Change Communication: how to inform, involve and inspire employees, will be published by Kogan Page in 2026. It is available to pre-order today from your favourite bookshop. You can save 25% off any Kogan Page book via koganpage.com using the code CANDIDCOMMS. Useful links: Add your name to receive Rachel's monthly Water Cooler newsletter. All show notes: allthingsic.com/podcast. Rachel's All Things IC website, featuring 1800 free blog posts. All Things IC Online Masterclasses, where you can enrol in training. Find Rachel on Instagram @rachelallthingsic or LinkedIn. Thank you for stopping by, Rachel Miller, Founder, All Things IC.
David van der Sanden turns Patagonia's purpose into something employees can live, not just understand. As Head of Internal Communications & Engagement, he focuses on translating the company's mission to save our home planet into stories, actions, and experiences that connect people to the work and to one another. In this conversation with Ryan, David shares how Patagonia's “business-unusual” culture shows up behind the scenes, like pairing clarity with action through activism hours, repair programs, and Worn Wear initiatives. He reflects on leading with radical honesty, why curiosity beats confrontation in divided times, and how staying grounded in purpose keeps teams inspired and engaged.
PNR: This Old Marketing | Content Marketing with Joe Pulizzi and Robert Rose
Are we entering a new golden age of content marketing? In this week's This Old Marketing, Joe Pulizzi and Robert Rose dig into why the industry feels more alive than ever and what this resurgence means for brands and creators alike. The Big Stories: When Hollywood Hits the Break Room: A credit-card company launches a sitcom (Roomies) that blurs the line between branded content and binge-worthy entertainment. Read more → From Tackles to Talk Shows: The NFL's Broadcast Boot Camp trains players to pivot from pads to teleprompters. Is this a new playbook for employee-driven media? Read more → Redline, Red Flag: Creators push back on restrictive contracts, but many brands are saying “no edits allowed.” What does this mean for the creator–brand relationship? Read more → Marketing Winners of the Week: Taylor Swift (once again setting the standard for creator-driven marketing) MSNBC's bold rebrand Billy Joel (yes, he's still moving the needle) Rants & Raves: A surprising return to print media: why it may be smarter than you think A deeper dive into the true meaning of “rented land” in today's marketing mix Key Takeaway: Content marketing isn't just back. It's maturing into a stronger, more essential discipline. Brands and creators who double down on owned media, storytelling, and consistency will be the ones who thrive in this new golden age. ------- This week's sponsor: You don't become the world's most valuable women's sports franchise by accident. Angel City Football Club did it with a little help from HubSpot. When they started, data was housed across multiple systems. HubSpot unified their website, email marketing, and fan experience in one platform. This allowed their small team of three to build an entire website in just three days. The results? Nearly 350 new sign-ups a week and 300% database growth in just two years. Visit https://www.hubspot.com/ to hear how HubSpot can help you grow better. ------- Get all the show notes: https://www.thisoldmarketing.com/ Get Joe's new book, Burn the Playbook, at www.joepulizzi.com/books/burn-the-playbook/ Subscribe to Joe's Newsletter at https://www.joepulizzi.com/signup/. Get Robert Rose's new book, Valuable Friction, at https://robertrose.net/valuable-friction/ Subscribe to Robert's Newsletter at https://seventhbearlens.substack.com/ ------- This Old Marketing is part of the HubSpot Podcast Network: https://www.hubspot.com/podcastnetwork
Discover the surprising power of a leader's words. Many leaders unintentionally create confusion or impact morale due to the inherent weight of their position. This episode reveals why your casual comments can become mandates and how your opinions are interpreted as directives. Learn to communicate with precision and awareness to avoid misinterpretations and build trust. For more resources on developing leadership skills visit us at Revela. Where we've helped hundreds of executives lead productive teams and thriving organizations. This podcast is produced by Two Brothers Creative.
The big picture: AI is already better at writing, summarizing, and mimicking tone. So what does that mean for internal comms?Why it matters: If your value is built on turning chaos into copy, you're replaceable. But if you lead with strategy, trust, and human nuance—you're untouchable.Go deeper: Regine Nelson, Internal Communications and Employee Engagement Lead at Couchbase joins to unpack her viral post on the future of IC in the age of AI. We talk about:The real reason comms pros should be worriedWhy most of us are still reacting, not leadingWhat it takes to become a strategist—not a scribeHow to build a comms career that AI can't replicateListen now if you want to stay relevant, be respected, and future-proof your role.
Internal communication strategist Alejandra Ramirez is a veteran culture builder with nearly two decades of experience helping organizations align message with meaning. She founded ReadyCultures to help leaders communicate in ways their teams can hear, trust, and act on. Mentioned on the ShowConnect with Alejandra Ramirez on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malejandraramirezLearn more about Alejandra's internal communications firm, Ready Cultures: https://www.readycultures.com/Get Alejandra's worksheet explaining her Head, Heart, Hands approach: https://www.readycultures.com/3h-frameworkTim Ferris' interview with Walter O'Brien (inspiration for the show, Scorpion): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BQ6IcUoXpzU_______________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/________________________Timestamps(00:00) Welcome to People Business.(02:44) Meet Alejandra Ramirez of Ready Cultures.(04:30) What is a “third culture” and what communication challenges does that bring?(08:01) Are there best practices in internal communications?(17:52) What do managers need to know about delivering bad news?(20:48) How can companies uphold a communication strategy and be transparent?(25:50) How can companies have effective communications?(28:33) Why is social connection so important?(29:05) Why is it important to know our ‘why'?(29:37) The importance of “EQ” at work.(33:30) How do leaders get coached in communications?(36:59) What does good preparation look like?(40:25) Who delivers the news, especially bad news?(51:38) How can company culture be created?(54:38) How to contact Alejandra Ramirez and Ready Cultures.
For your communication to be credible, you can't just say it — you have to do it.Want people to believe what you say? According to Richard Edelman, the words you choose only get you halfway there. To build real trust, he says, you have to practice what you preach.“Action builds trust,” says Edelman. “If you don't do something, you can't talk about it.” As the president and CEO of Edelman, a leading global communications marketing firm, Edelman is widely recognized for his thought leadership in marketing and PR, especially on issues related to corporate trust, brand reputation, and social responsibility. His annual Edelman Trust Barometer reveals a sobering reality: "Two-thirds of people believe leaders lie to them now, business leaders, government leaders, even journalists." For people and organizations that want to rebuild trust, whether in a one-on-one relationship or with a customer base of millions, Edelman's advice is simple: "Decide, do, communicate."In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Edelman and host Matt Abrahams explore strategies for winning trust when traditional authority no longer guarantees it. In an age of skepticism, Edelman's insights show that sustainable trust comes not from perfect messaging, but from consistently aligning your actions with your words.Episode Reference Links:Richard Edelman158. Hope for Cynics: Building Trusting Relationships through Communication Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (03:06) - The Evolution of Trust (04:17) - Rebuilding Trust After a Breach (05:10) - Leaders as Influencers (06:22) - New Media Ecosystems (08:06) - The Role of AI in Communication (09:26) - Key Qualities for Future Leaders (10:26) - The Final Three Questions (17:57) - Conclusion ********This Episode is brought to you by Strawberry.me. Get $50 off coaching today at Strawberry.me/smartBecome a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium.
Get ready for a fresh twist on Gut+Science!
In this inspiring episode of the Cohesion Podcast, Carolyn Clark (VP of Employee Experience Strategy & Transformation at Simpplr) sits down with Sarah Kaplan, Director of Internal Communications at Smarsh. With a unique background in opera performance and a keen instinct for people-first storytelling, Sarah has led major internal transformation at Smarsh—starting from scratch just before a company acquisition and CEO transition. Sarah shares how she evolved the internal comms function from a team of one to a strategic partner to executive leadership. From ruthless prioritization to launching a global employee event across time zones, Sarah's story is full of practical insights and human depth. If you're building a comms team, navigating rapid organizational change, or just curious how opera can shape a corporate career—this one's for you. Topics Covered: Building an internal comms function from zeroBecoming a strategic partner to leadershipBalancing trust with clarity during acquisitions and CEO changeLeading hybrid transitions and global engagement eventsHow performance arts skills translate to leadership and empathy Connect with Sarah Kaplan: LinkedIn Subscribe to get the latest conversations on employee experience, change leadership, and internal communications.
What does that mean for leadership in today's skeptical world? Communications expert Jenni Field joins us to explore how credibility, integrity, and intentional leadership are the cornerstones of organizational trust– and how to build them before it's too late. In this powerful episode of Disruptive CEO Nation, founder of Redefining Communications and author of Nobody Believes You, Jenni, comes to share her wisdom. Together, we unpack the rising challenges leaders face in building trust, developing middle managers, and scaling culture in a skeptical, fast-paced business environment. If you've ever struggled with communication gaps, growing pains, or a loss of team credibility, this episode delivers real insight and practical tools you can apply right now. Here are highlights: - Credibility Starts with Integrity: Jenni explains how credibility isn't a one-time achievement; it's built moment by moment by doing what you say you'll do, even when it's inconvenient. - Bridging the Leadership Gap: Discover why middle managers often don't step up and how vague expectations and unintentional micromanagement from the C-suite can create “learned helplessness.” - The Trust Crisis in Organizations: A breakdown in trust shows up as low engagement scores. Jenni shares how CEOs can rebuild that trust by being radically transparent and consistently communicative. - Founders Must Evolve or Hand the Baton: As startups grow, visionary founders must either develop leadership skills or intentionally seek leadership support. Jenni outlines when and how to make that choice. - Time Isn't the Problem, but Priorities Are: Jenni challenges the “I don't have time” excuse and offers bite-sized actions for building trust and leadership daily, even in the busiest roles. Access Jenni's book, course, and free resources here: How to be a credible leader - Redefining Communications About the guest: Jenni Field is an expert in leadership credibility and internal communication. After spending 13 years in senior in-house roles as Head of Internal Communications and Communications Director, Jenni founded her consultancy, Redefining Communications, to help organisations and teams move from chaos to calm through effective communication. She works with organisations, leaders, and emerging leaders so they can improve their communication and credibility, thus impacting positively on the workplace environment. Jenni has published two books: Nobody Believes You: Become a Leader People Will Follow, which has sold over 4,000 copies internationally, and Influential Internal Communication, both published within the last five years. She also co-hosts Frequency, a weekly podcast exploring internal comms, HR, leadership, and employee experience. Co-hosted with Chuck Gose, the show features expert insights, lively conversation, and debate on the big workplace challenges. Connect with Jenni: Website:https://thejennifield.com/ Website: https://redefiningcomms.com/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/redefining-communications-with-jenni-field/id1588233391 Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with Alejandra Ramirez, an internal communication strategist at Ready Cultures. They delve into the critical role of internal communication in enhancing employee experience and driving organizational culture. This conversation is timely as companies increasingly recognize the importance of strategic communication in fostering trust, boosting productivity, and facilitating sustainable cultural change. Listener Takeaways: Learn how to bridge the gap between strategy and action through effective internal communication. Discover why understanding your audience is essential for crafting impactful messages. Explore strategies for measuring communication effectiveness, even with limited resources. Hit “Play” to gain insights that can transform your internal communication approach and elevate your HR practices! Guest: Alejandra Ramirez, Internal Communication Strategist, Ready Cultures
Industrial Talk is onsite at DistribuTech 2025 and talking to Kellie De Pooter, Director, Global Marketing and Internal Communications at G&W Electric Co. about "A resilient and reliable grid". Scott MacKenzie hosts an industrial talk podcast featuring Kellie De Pooter, Global Director of Marketing and Communications at G&W Electric. Kellie discusses the growth of the DistribyTech event in Dallas, Texas, and the importance of collaboration with utilities. G&W Electric's booth features an innovation corner for customer feedback on new products. They focus on resiliency, reliability, and digitalization, using sensing technology and condition-based monitoring to improve grid performance. Kellie highlights a successful collaboration with a customer on a 69 kV apparatus. The conversation also touches on the increasing demand for power due to AI and data centers, emphasizing the need for efficient data utilization. Action Items [ ] Integrate G&W's sensing technologies into their overhead reclosers and underground switches to provide more granular data to utilities. [ ] Explore ways to seamlessly integrate the data from G&W's solutions into utilities' own cloud/SCADA systems. [ ] Collaborate with customers to pilot G&W's new condition-based monitoring and asset management solutions. Outline Kellie De Pooter G&W Electric: Introduction and Event Overview Scott MacKenzie introduces the Industrial Talk podcast, highlighting its focus on industry innovations and professionals. Scott welcomes listeners and mentions the event being broadcasted from DistribuTech in Dallas, Texas. Scott introduces Kellie De Pooter, Global Director of Marketing and Communications for G&W Electric, and praises her previous appearances on the show. Kellie De Pooter confirms her presence at the event and discusses the growth of the event, noting its global expansion. Kellie De Pooter's Role and G&W Electric's Booth Kellie De Pooter explains her role at G&W Electric, a 120-year-old company based in Chicago, and their products for utilities and commercial/industrial customers. Scott comments on the impressive booth setup by G&W Electric, which won an award last year. Kellie describes the innovation corner in their booth, which is invite-only and used to gather customer feedback on new, unmarketed products. The innovation corner allows for collaborative problem-solving and potential development of new solutions. Challenges in the Utility Sector Scott and Kellie discuss the challenges faced by the utility sector, including increasing power demand and the need for modernization and digitalization. Kellie emphasizes the importance of resiliency and reliability of the grid, and the role of AI and other technologies in addressing these challenges. G&W Electric is investing in sensing technology and condition-based monitoring to help utilities make better decisions and improve grid reliability. The company is working with a partner to test and develop these technologies, with plans to scale them across the industry. Data Integration and Analytics Scott inquires about the process of integrating data from G&W Electric's apparatus into the cloud and how it is analyzed. Kellie explains that the data is currently being pushed to the partner's cloud, but plans are in place to integrate with utilities' existing systems.
Melody Wilding: Managing Up Melody Wilding is an executive and leadership coach for smart, sensitive high-achievers who are tired of getting in their own way. She teaches human behavior at Hunter College and is a regular contributor to Harvard Business Review, Forbes, and Business Insider, who named her one the “most innovative coaches.” She is the author of Managing Up: How To Get What You Need from the People in Charge*. Good work speaks for itself. It's a lie many of us have wished was true, but found that there's actually much more work involved. In this conversation, Melody and I discuss what really helps in creating more visibility. Key Points Good work does not speak for itself. Our fear of appearing self-promotional can hinder the visibility conversations that our leaders and team need from us. A story will be told about your work. By having stories that you are ready to tell, you get to shape the narrative. Instead of listing what you've done, highlight what you want to be known for. Give visibility to work that is important to your team, puts you in contact with stakeholders, and impacts that bottom line. Always have a 3-step pocket update at the ready. Share a (1) project, (2) detail, and (3) result. Capitalize on casual conversation. Say yes to the right invitations and be the person that keeps the relationship going. Resources Mentioned Managing Up: How To Get What You Need from the People in Charge* by Melody Wilding Interview Notes Download my interview notes in PDF format (free membership required). Related Episodes Get Noticed Without Selling Out, with Laura Huang (episode 480) (Mention the facets analogy.) How to Start Finding Useful Stories, with David Hutchens (episode 593) Getting Better at Internal Communication, with Roy Schwartz (episode 687) Discover More Activate your free membership for full access to the entire library of interviews since 2011, searchable by topic. To accelerate your learning, uncover more inside Coaching for Leaders Plus.
"Customers today really want that speed of answer. They are impressed when people who get back to them quickly and answer their questions." Video can transform your customer service in ways you might not have imagined. It seems like today speed and personalization are key. I have found that using video for customer support can set you apart from the competition. Read my blog for more from this episode on how video makes it easier to connect with your customers on a personal level. Notable Moments 00:37 Addressing Customer Support with Videos 04:57 Effective Communication Through Video 07:14 Using Video for Internal Communication 10:12 Planning for Clear Communication Resources The Cockerell Academy About Lee Cockerell Mainstreet Leader Jody Maberry Travel Guidance Magical Vacation Planners are my preferred travel advisors. Reach out to have them help plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.