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About Ken Schmidt:Ken Schmidt is one of the business world's most in-demand executive advisors and speakers, driven by the acclaim he earned leading Harley-Davidson Motor Company's against-all-odds turnaround in the 1990s from the brink of financial ruin to global dominance. He's the author of Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance, the host of the Tailgating with Geniuses podcast, and co-founder of Torque Sessions Leadership Training. Ken's success, unconventional business approach, and playful outspokenness led him to consulting assignments with household-name brands and transformed him into a highly requested speaker with more than 1,200 keynotes presented globally to date. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Ken Schmidt discuss:Human-centered brand differentiationEmotional connection as a competitive edgeReframing traditional marketing strategiesBusiness transformation through customer feedbackThe power of language in brand identity Key Takeaways:Harley-Davidson's resurgence came from abandoning a product-focused mindset and embracing a strategy centered on emotional connection, human interaction, and delivering consistent delight.By directly asking riders one powerful question—“What do we have to change on this motorcycle to convince you to buy it?”—Harley created a fast, impactful loop between feedback and product innovation.The company aligned its brand around three key questions—what are people saying about us, what do we want them to say, and what are we doing to get them to say it—shaping its message and behavior for lasting impact.Harley proved real customer loyalty is built not on specs or price, but on small, repeated experiences that make people feel seen, valued, and emotionally tied to the brand. "What makes a business attractive is when it is known for who it is rather than what it is.” — Ken Schmidt Connect with Ken Schmidt: Website: https://kenspeaks.com/Torque Sessions: https://www.torquesessions.com/Book: Make Some Noise: https://www.amazon.com/Make-Some-Noise-Unconventional-Dominance/dp/150115561XShow: Tailgating With Geniuses: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tailgating-with-geniuses/id1576378423LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-schmidt-5b08115/ See Dean's TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqRK8GC8jBIFYPmECUCMkwWebsite: https://www.mfileadership.com/The Mission Statement E-Newsletter: https://www.mfileadership.com/blog/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannewlund/X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/deannewlundFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionFacilitators/Email: dean.newlund@mfileadership.comPhone: 1-800-926-7370 Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel AlvarezAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
In this episode of The Excellence Project, Eric Worre sits down with Ken Schmidt, the former Director of Communications at Harley-Davidson who played a pivotal role in one of the most celebrated brand turnarounds in business history. Ken shares the inside story of how Harley-Davidson transformed from a struggling motorcycle manufacturer on the brink of bankruptcy to a lifestyle brand with unprecedented customer loyalty. Throughout the conversation, Ken reveals the powerful strategy of creating "visual words" that differentiated Harley from competitors, the importance of humanizing business interactions, and practical ways any business can shift from being product-focused to becoming truly memorable in customers' minds. TimeStamps [00:00:40] - Ken's Beginning at Harley-Davidson - How Ken joined Harley-Davidson in the mid-80s when the company was struggling and most expected it to fold after 80+ years in business. [00:05:02] - The Market Situation - Ken explains how Harley went from owning 95% market share to collapsing as Japanese competitors entered with lower-priced, well-made motorcycles. [00:09:40] - The Mission to Reposition - Ken describes his job to improve Harley's image and attract investment despite the company's Chapter 11 status. [00:15:40] - The Three Questions That Changed Everything - Ken shares the three simple questions he typed out that became the foundation for Harley's brand transformation. [00:22:15] - The Five Visual Words - The afternoon brainstorm that produced five powerful words—lifestyle, freedom, camaraderie, individuality, and rebellion—that still drive Harley's brand identity today. [00:35:05] - Humanizing the Business - Ken's insights on why people naturally humanize businesses and the importance of being known for who you are, not what you do. [00:41:31] - Direct Customer Engagement - How bringing bikes to events and asking customers direct questions provided invaluable insights that couldn't be captured in surveys. [00:48:07] - Getting Executive Buy-in - The story of how Harley executives personally experienced customer feedback, which catalyzed total organizational commitment to the new approach. [01:09:38] - Remember and Repeat (R&R) - Ken's personal philosophy about creating memorable experiences that customers will share with others. [01:17:44] - Leading with Humanity, Not Products - Why showing genuine interest in people creates preference in a world where every product is seen as a commodity. [01:32:17] - Simple Ways to Be Memorable - Practical examples of how businesses can create unexpected moments that get talked about and drive repeat business. Your Next Steps: Join Eric's Daily Coaching and training at: https://goproinsider.com/ Purchase tickets to Go Pro Xperience 2025: https://gopro2025.com/gpx25 Get more likes and comments with engaging, unique posts written by AI in a click & access the AI version of the #1 Network Marketing expert, Eric Worre: https://nmpro.link/nmproai-pc Hire Eric- Get best-in-class Network Marketing Advice with Eric Worre: https://nmpro.link/hireeric-pc For the latest news and insights from the world of Network Marketing visit: https://nmpro.link/yt-subscribe Questions or Comments? Do you have questions you would like me to answer in future podcasts or comments on the show you'd like to share? Email me at podcast@networkmarketingpro.com
In this episode of ON AIR, Joe Jones and Dave Chatmon sit down with Ken Schmidt, former Director of Communications at Harley-Davidson, to explore how the brand went from near collapse to cultural icon. Ken shares the bold strategies that helped Harley-Davidson stand out in a crowded market—focusing on strong storytelling, emotional connection, and the power of being remembered rather than just noticed. He explains why most brands struggle to spark loyalty—and how authenticity, vulnerability, and a clear point of view can help reverse that trend. This conversation offers practical takeaways on breaking through the noise, building brand advocates, and getting people to talk about your business for the right reasons. Whether you're rebuilding a brand or looking to sharpen your message, this episode delivers insights that cut through the clutter.ON AIR is a Lennox Learning Solutions Production.
STOC 129: Balancing Tradition & Innovation: What Businesses Can Learn from Harley Davidson with Ken Schmidt In this episode of 'Secret Thoughts of CEOs and Business Leaders,' host Chris Yonker interviews Ken Schmidt, a former Harley Davidson executive renowned for his innovative repositioning strategy. They discuss the key elements holding back family businesses and privately held companies, including family harmony, succession, financial management, and innovation. Ken shares insights into Harley Davidson's transformation, emphasizing the need for businesses to connect on a human level, foster a strong internal culture, and leverage their unique history. They explore how companies can balance maintaining core values with embracing new innovations to delight and retain customers. What You'll Learn · Humans naturally seek and return to sources of delight, regardless of how minor they are. · When the human connection is made, business wins. Timestamps 03:48 Ken Schmidt's Journey to Harley Davidson 20:16 The Importance of Company Identity 32:04 The Role of Technology in Customer Interaction 34:30 Human Connection 37:55 Building a Memorable Business 43:20 Creating a Culture of Delight Memorable Quotes · “Harley does all this other stuff that, that hits people at a human level. And at the end of the day, that makes the business more desirable. It makes people willing to pay more, for the privilege of being part of that community.” [19:45] · ” How can we do what we do faster, better, and cheaper to get more stuff out into the marketplace? That's exactly what customers are not looking for.” [27:55] Websites: fambizforum.com. www.chrisyonker.com. kenspeaks.com LinkedIn: @KenSchmidt Tailgating with Geniuses Podcast Ken Schmidt Bio: It's an impersonal world, where so many products and services are seen as easily-replaced, indistinct commodities. Whether you stand out or get lost in the crowd is a choice. A mindset. Ken Schmidt faced those same challenges himself and gained acclaim for his role in the extraordinary turnaround of the legendary Harley-Davidson Motor Company. That transformation was based on a change in mindset and a focus on answering three key strategic questions. While times have changed, what humans want and need from the businesses they buy from and work for hasn't. In his high-energy speeches, Ken inspires companies and individuals to shift their thinking and ride a path to success by becoming memorable – not for what they do or what they make, but for how they connect with people. Ken is author of Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance. He's also host of the Tailgating with Geniuses podcast and co-founder of Torque Sessions Leadership Training. In all of his endeavors, Ken brings an unconventional perspective that helps organizations and individuals reframe how they engage with their marketplace. Ken Schmidt's career in the motorcycle industry began in 1985 as a specialist in corporate positioning and media relations for the then-struggling Harley-Davidson. He was tasked with helping the company restore its image, improve its competitiveness, and create demand for its motorcycles. Within a few short years, sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles skyrocketed, and the company returned to prominence as one of the most respected, profitable, and frequently reported-on companies in the world. In 1990, Ken became director of Harley-Davidson's corporate and financial communications, serving as its primary spokesperson to the media and the financial communities. He frequently appeared in mainstream and business media to offer insights on nontraditional communications, customer attraction, and brand-building. His expertise and success at Harley- Davidson ultimately led to consulting assignments and speaking invitations from all over the world. In 1997, Ken left Harley-Davidson to take an ownership position with a highly successful Chicago-based marketing firm, VSA Partners. In addition to Harley-Davidson, VSA served a virtual who's who of the world's best-known brands. In 1999, he sold his portion of VSA to start his own business, Ken Schmidt Company, to combine two of his greatest passions, motorcycling and speaking. He uses motorcycles as a metaphor to expose people to proven ideas and concepts they've likely never imagined. In addition to speaking and consulting, Ken is co-founder of Torque Sessions Leadership Training. Through a combination of hands-on training and interactive workshops, these sessions help individuals and organizations re-position themselves to become dominant competitors, maximize leadership effectiveness, build a people-first culture of innovation and foster loyalty among customers and employees. Ken is also the host of the popular podcast Tailgating with Geniuses, wherein he talks with some of the most innovative and successful leaders in a variety of industries to discuss their unique perspectives on leadership, major challenges, and success. Ken's relatable and engaging hosting style has made the podcast a hit with listeners looking to learn from the best and achieve their own personal and professional goals. Ken authored Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance, which gives business leaders an easy-to-follow roadmap for improving their competitiveness, using many of the techniques he championed at Harley-Davidson. He considers his work on 100 Years of Harley-Davidson, a global best seller, to be one of his greatest and most rewarding achievements. After all he has accomplished, Ken remains committed to his philosophy of standing out, taking risks, and having fun in both his personal and professional life. He says, “Never do what's expected, make yourself as noticeably different as possible, and have a lot more fun than you're supposed to.”
In this episode, David sits down with Ken Schmidt. Ken is a highly sought-after executive advisor and speaker, renowned for leading Harley-Davidson's remarkable turnaround in the 1990s—from near bankruptcy to global dominance. He's the author of Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance, host of the Tailgating with Geniuses podcast, and co-founder of Torque Sessions Leadership Training. Known for his unconventional business approach and engaging style, Ken has consulted for major brands and delivered over 1,200 keynotes worldwide. In this episode, David and Ken discuss: Key lessons from Harley-Davidson's turnaround and the role of human behavior in gaining a competitive edge. The internal cultural shifts necessary for transformation and how leaders must model desired behaviors. Three essential questions to align employees and create a unified company vision. Ken's “R&R” approach for fostering meaningful and effective interactions. Connect with Ken on LinkedIn or on his website here! To take advantage of the Emerging Leader Holiday special, join the waitlist here. Click here for access to my free ebook Check out https://www.davidmcglennen.com/podcasts/in-the-growth-space-2 for links, transcript, and more details
In this episode of 10x Your Team with Cam & Otis, Ken Schmidt shares insights into the transformative power of storytelling and branding in leadership. Drawing from his experiences as an executive, Ken illustrates how narratives can strengthen connections and drive team success. The discussion highlights the importance of authenticity, humor, and adaptability in building a memorable brand and fostering a positive team culture. Whether you're refining your leadership skills or your brand's story, this episode offers invaluable insights and practical advice.More About Ken:Ken Schmidt is one of the business world's most demanded executive advisors and speakers, driven by the acclaim he earned leading Harley-Davidson Motor Company's against-all-odds turnaround in the 1990s from the brink of financial ruin to global dominance. He's the author of Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance, the host of the Tailgating with Geniuses podcast, and co-founder of Torque Sessions Leadership Training. Ken's success, unconventional business approach, and playful outspokenness led him to consulting assignments with household-name brands and transformed him into a highly requested speaker with more than 1,200 keynotes presented globally to date.Chapters:Introduction and Ken's Background 00:00 - 05:00Description: Opening remarks and introduction of Ken Schmidt, highlighting his journey and expertise in storytelling and branding.The Power of Storytelling in Leadership 05:01 - 15:00Description: Discussion on how storytelling can be a powerful tool for leaders to connect with their teams and audiences.Building Authentic Brands 15:01 - 25:00Description: Ken shares insights on the importance of authenticity in branding and leadership.Using Humor and Adaptability 25:01 - 35:00Description: Exploring how humor and adaptability can enhance leadership effectiveness and team dynamics.Fostering a Positive Team Culture 35:01 - 45:00Description: Strategies for creating a team culture that supports growth, creativity, and collaboration.Closing Thoughts and Key Takeaways 45:01Description: Final reflections on the conversation and actionable insights for listeners to implement in their leadership roles.Ken SchmidtWebsite: https://kenspeaks.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-schmidt-5b08115/
I never expected the term “branding” or “brand” to be part of my lexicon, but here we are in 2025 where it seems that “branding yourself” and “what is your brand” are common concepts to discuss. Trying to figure out which version of me will “land” or resonate with not just my “audience”, but anyone. Iconic brands are something that seem to last forever in our minds. What are some of the iconic brands? Apple. Coca-Cola. IBM. Lego. McDonalds. Doesn't mean that we even like or use these products. But we for sure recognize those brands. Another one of those iconic brands is Harley-Davidson. You might not ride a motorcycle, but you know what Harley-Davidson is and what it represents. But it is not as if Harley-Davidson has been one brand throughout its existence. It has gone through some different iterations of what it is, and how it is seen. But within all of those changes has been a constant of what it was trying to represent. To explore the brand known as Harley Davidson, we welcome Ken Schmidt to the ExD Studio. Ken originally wanted to be in advertising, but ended up in public and investor relations. His journey in the profession saw him end up as director of communications for Harley-Davidson, where he was involved in the company's turnaround.Part of that turnaround involved changing the perception of Harley-Davidson, while also keeping the perception of Harley-Davidson. Harley has been around since 1903. It was doing exclusive production for the military in World War II. When some of those soldiers returned, they wanted to still ride motorcycles. And some of those soldiers had a bit of a hard time re-integrating into polite society. Thus we get groups known as outlaw motorcycle clubs, and movies that imprinted that connection in people's minds.Now Harley-Davidson is the motorcycle of a very diverse customer base. You can't characterize the “Harley rider” other than a person who like comfort, aesthetics, reliability, and yes even noise as part of their riding experience. We cover a lot of ground in this chat, including voice of the customer, inclusive design, branding and identity, the psychology of choice, and the challenges of changing how you are seen while trying to keep who you are. We also talk about his book “Make some noise: The unconventional road to dominance.”I will also add that this conversation was before Harley-Davidson publicly announced it would rollback “DEI initiatives,” including partnering with pride festivals and connections with diversity-related groups. In terms of how it relates to my conversation with Ken, this last paragraph from Harley is definitely relevant: "We believe having both a broad employee and customer base is good for business and that ultimately everybody should experience the joy of riding a Harley-Davidson. We remain committed to listening to all members of our community as we continue on our journey together as the most desirable motorcycle brand in the world."Ken Schmidt: https://kenspeaks.com/Ken Schmidt LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-schmidt-5b08115/"Make Some Noise" book Link
About the Guest:Ken Schmidt, former director of communications for Harley-Davidson, is a renowned business strategist and speaker who helped transform the brand into a global icon. Known for his bold and entertaining style, Ken specializes in competition, brand positioning, and customer loyalty. His book, Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance, shares his unique insights on standing out and thriving in business. A lifelong motorcycle enthusiast, Ken blends his passions for riding and storytelling to inspire leaders worldwide.Learn more about Ken through his website at www.kenspeaks.comAbout the Episode:In this episode of Growth Ready, Ken Schmidt, shares his invaluable insights on competitiveness and success. Drawing from his extensive experience, Ken emphasizes the significance of viewing the world through a competitive lens—not just in business, but in life.He explores the critical role of reputation, human connection, and emotional engagement in driving business success. Ken introduces three essential questions that businesses and individuals must ask to refine their goals, enhance their strategies, and boost competitiveness.The conversation delves into actionable advice on:Delighting customers to build loyalty and repeat business.Overcoming resistance to change by simplifying solutions.Creating a unique brand language to stand out.Balancing strategy with understanding human behavior to foster connections.Ken also highlights the importance of passion, consistency, and genuine interest in others as cornerstones for personal and professional growth. With practical tips and thought-provoking perspectives, this episode is packed with inspiration for anyone seeking to elevate their competitive edge.Key TakeawaysCompetitiveness is a mindset crucial for growth in life and business.Reputation and human connection are essential for success.Delighting customers creates loyalty and drives demand.Businesses thrive on emotional connections, not just product quality.Simplify strategies for easier implementation and greater impact.A strong brand identity requires consistent messaging and a unique voice.Passion and authenticity are magnetic in attracting customers and building trust.Asking the right questions helps clarify goals and strategies.Genuine interest in others strengthens relationships and reputation.Sign up for the monthly newsletter with Steve and GrowthReady (formerly known as Career Competitor) by providing your details here - Request to become part of our communityAlso be sure to give him and the show a follow on Instagram @coachstevemellor
Discover the journey of Harley Davidson's transformation with Ken Schmidt, former head of communication at the iconic company, on the Win Make Give podcast. Hosts Chad Hyams and Bob Stewart dive into the importance of humanizing business, fostering community, and building brand loyalty. Learn how Harley Davidson shifted from product-focused marketing to creating experiences that captivate and engage. Explore actionable strategies to elevate your business by embracing passion, genuine engagement, and customer delight. This episode offers valuable insights for businesses striving to strengthen their brand presence and customer connection. ---------- Connect with the hosts: • Ben Kinney: https://www.BenKinney.com/ • Bob Stewart: https://www.linkedin.com/in/activebob • Chad Hyams: https://ChadHyams.com/ • Book one of our co-hosts for your next event: https://WinMakeGive.com/speakers/ More ways to connect: • Join our Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/winmakegive • Sign up for our weekly newsletter: https://WinMakeGive.com/sign-up • Explore the Win Make Give Podcast Network: https://WinMakeGive.com/ Part of the Win Make Give Podcast Network
Ken Schmidt is the visionary leader behind Harley-Davidson's legendary turnaround and an expert in authentic leadership and customer loyalty. Ken shares how shifting the business mindset and focusing on three key strategic questions can transform businesses from indistinct commodities to unforgettable brands. Drawing from decades of experience, his book Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance, and his acclaimed podcast Tailgating with Geniuses, Ken explains how to: - Build deep, lasting loyalty by connecting with customers on a human level. - Re-frame your approach to leadership for standout success. - Apply lessons from Harley-Davidson's iconic revival to your own organization. Ken's passion for helping businesses become dominant competitors shines through in this engaging conversation, packed with actionable insights and unconventional wisdom. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Follow Grownlearn on X: https://x.com/grownlearn1729
Ken Schmidt, the visionary who revolutionized Harley-Davidson's brand image is Dr. Bill Dorfman's special guest on this week's episode. Dive into a captivating conversation about how passion and strategic thinking can redefine success for any business or individual. Key Takeaways: - Learn the three pivotal questions that redefined Harley-Davidson's market strategy. - Uncover why being interested is more powerful than being interesting in building connections. - Explore how visible passion and delight create lasting impressions and loyalty. ABOUT THE GUEST Ken Schmidt's career in the motorcycle industry began in 1985 as a specialist in corporate positioning and media relations for the then-struggling Harley-Davidson. He was tasked with helping the company restore its image, improve its competitiveness,and create demand for its motorcycles. Within a few short years, sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles skyrocketed, and the company returned to prominence as one of the most respected, profitable, and frequently reported-on companies in the world. In 1990, Ken became director of Harley-Davidson's corporate and financial communications, serving as its primary spokesperson to the media and the financial communities. He frequently appeared in mainstream and business media to offer insights on nontraditional communications, customer attraction, and brand-building. His expertise and success at Harley- Davidson ultimately led to consulting assignments and speaking invitations from all over the world. In addition to speaking and consulting, Ken is co-founder of Torque Sessions Leadership Training. Through a combination of hands-on training and interactive workshops, these sessions help individuals and organizations re-position themselves to become dominant competitors, maximize leadership effectiveness, build a people-first culture of innovation and foster loyalty among customers and employees. Ken is also the host of the popular podcast Tailgating with Geniuses, wherein he talks with some of the most innovative and successful leaders in a variety of industries to discuss their unique perspectives on leadership, major challenges, and success. Ken authored Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance, which gives business leaders an easy-to-follow roadmap for improving their competitiveness, using many of the techniques he championed at Harley-Davidson. He considers his work on 100 Years of Harley-Davidson, a global best seller, to be one of his greatest and most rewarding achievements. WWW.KENSPEAKS.COM WWW.TAILGATINGWITHGENIUSES.COM WWW.TORQUESESSIONS.COM ABOUT THE HOST Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If you want to get the most out of your employees, develop a thriving culture, and retain great employees, then your primary objective should be to develop authentic connections with your people. This means showing up consistently. Not once a year, or once a quarter. You have to make intentional connections a regular part of your routine. In this week's episode of the Lead Up Podcast, Mike and special guest Ken Schmidt talk about “Making Some Noise” and making people your priority to improve results. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through: Mike@harbourresources.com to let him know your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to speak on in the future. You can learn more about Ken here.
A very special episode with Ken Schmidt who is one of the business world's most demanded executive advisors and speakers. It explores how Harley-Davidson's former CEO, Richard Teerlink, revitalized the iconic brand through bold leadership and strategic innovation. Some of the key takeaways: Effective leadership can drive sustainability and innovation in a company.Successful turnarounds often involve integrating eco-friendly practices and updating the company's image.Strategic focus on new market opportunities and customer engagement is crucial for revitalization.Visionary leadership can significantly impact the revival of established brands. These and much more in this special episode. Until the next episode, stay INSPIRED and make the biggest difference in your area of responsibility and beyond. For any inquiries, please contact fouad@alame.ch
If all you're known for is what you do, you've basically rendered yourself uncompetitive. -Ken Schmidt For more aerospace industry news & commentary: https://goo.gl/3piJkw. To learn more about Craig Picken and the NorthStar Group, visit http://northstaresg.com/. In a competitive marketplace, nothing kills you faster than trying to brand yourself on your product or service. That's a lesson Harley-Davidson learned the hard way. At one point, the company was being outpaced by Yamaha, Kawasaki and BMW…until they decided to position themselves differently. They went from a product-focused business to a thriving lifestyle brand, and that turned into one of the biggest turnaround stories in American history. If you focus on what you sell, you'll render yourself uncompetitive. If you focus on what people believe and say about you, you'll create a unique brand no one can copy. That's how a historic company became an iconic brand. How can we apply Harley-Davidson's strategy to our own personal and corporate brands? How do we focus on memorability instead of marketability? In this episode, I'm joined by speaker, consultant, former director of communications for Harley-Davidson and author of “Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance”, Ken Schmidt. We talk about the secret to strong branding, whatever industry you're in. Three Things You'll Learn In This Episode The lesson Harley Davidson learned the hard way In business, competing on what we do is the death knell of market domination. How do we shift to something that sets us apart? A game of memorability Building a brand is easier said than done, what are 3 major steps we need to take to build a strong personal or corporate brand? Stand out by delighting your customers So many businesses are commoditized these days and they miss huge opportunities to stand out and gain loyalty. How do we get customers to come back for more? Guest Bio Ken Schmidt is a premium-fueled speaker, podcast host, author and consultant serving the world's highest- revving businesses (and those stuck in neutral). As the former director of communications for Harley-Davidson Motor Company, he played an active role in one of the most celebrated turnarounds in corporate history – and got paid to ride motorcycles. He is widely known and respected as one of the business world's most outspoken, provocative, and entertaining thought leaders on competition, brand management, positioning, reputation management, human behavior, and loyalty, and has delivered more than one thousand keynote speeches to business and education groups around the globe. Ken's book “Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance” teaches how to improve business and personal competitiveness and is shared from his, as always, extraordinarily unexpected point of view. To learn more, head to https://kenspeaks.com/ and buy the book here. About Your Host Co-founder and Managing Partner for Northstar Group, Craig is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives for some of the most prominent companies in the aviation and aerospace industry. Clients include well-known aircraft OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing / financial organizations, and Maintenance / Repair / Overhaul (MRO) providers. Since 2009 Craig has personally concluded more than 150 executive searches in a variety of disciplines. As the only executive recruiter who has flown airplanes, sold airplanes, AND run a business, Craig is uniquely positioned to build deep, lasting relationships with both executives and the boards and stakeholders they serve. This allows him to use a detailed, disciplined process that does more than pair the ideal candidate with the perfect opportunity and hit the business goals of the companies he serves. Check out this episode on Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to download the Apple Podcasts app and leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you!
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“If you're going to compete and be dominant as a business, you need to be known, appreciated, and spoken of for who you are, not for what you do. The exact same rule applies if you are a leader,” says Ken Schmidt, renowned executive advisor and speaker, pivotal in Harley-Davidson's 1990s turnaround. This week, he joins Mike Horne to share insights on leveraging human capital and redefining competition. Ken recounts how focusing on delighting customers rather than just producing motorcycles revitalized Harley-Davidson, emphasizing a people-first approach. He argues that true competitiveness comes from being known for your identity, not just your actions, and that leaders should be memorable for their human qualities. He also highlights the importance of making noise in the marketplace to create a distinct presence, as discussed in his book, “Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance.” Ken provides practical advice for leaders to improve competitiveness and foster loyalty through clear, consistent communication about their values and human qualities. Quotes “If you're going to compete and be dominant as a business, you need to be known, appreciated, and spoken of for who you are, not for what you do. The exact same rule applies if you are a leader. You want employees to think of you and know you for your human qualities, the things that make you attractive as a person, because ultimately that's what builds loyalty and inspires people.” (10:12 | Ken Schmidt) “To be successful as a competitor, we need to be talked about, respected, and revered. People need to come back to us, like us, trust us, and believe in us. We have to carve this out for ourselves first, establishing a definitive set of markers. What keywords would we want people to use when they talk about us, beyond just being a fine leader and a smart person? What are the human qualities we wish to be remembered for? These are what we need to accentuate when we talk to people.” (24:47 | Ken Schmidt) “We need to have consistent language. We need to use language that our competitors don't use. If they talk about product, we won't. If they talk about quality, we won't. Instead, we'll talk about lifestyle, freedom, and individuality. What does that have to do with the product? Why be known for what's obvious? Instead, we give people clever language and hooks to remember us by and use when they talk about us. Pretty soon, the vernacular and the energy change because people react differently and appreciate that we're doing it.” (38:07 | Ken Schmidt) “Let's not focus on serving. Let's concentrate on saying things and saying them in ways that are memorable and repeatable. Because if we're not thinking about it, we're not doing it.” (40:56 | Ken Schmidt) Links Learn more about Mike Horne on Linkedin Email Mike at mike@mike-horne.com Learn More About Executive and Organization Development with Mike Horne Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikehorneauthor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikehorneauthor/, LinkedIn Mike's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6867258581922799617/, Schedule a Discovery Call with Mike: https://calendly.com/mikehorne/15-minute-discovery-call-with-mike Learn more about Ken Schmidt: kenspeaks.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-schmidt-5b08115/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
This week's episode wraps up with a new edition of Cougar Tales.
Learn More About Attending the Highest Rated and Most Reviewed Business Workshops On the Planet Hosted by Clay Clark In Tulsa, Oklahoma HERE: https://www.thrivetimeshow.com/business-conferences/ See the Thousands of Success Stories and Millionaires That Clay Clark Has Helped to Produce HERE: https://www.thrivetimeshow.com/testimonials/ Clay Clark Testimonials | "Clay Clark Has Helped Us to Grow from 2 Locations to Now 6 Locations. Clay Has Done a Great Job Helping Us to Navigate Anything That Has to Do with Running the Business, Building the System, the Workflows, to Buy Property." - Charles Colaw (Learn More Charles Colaw and Colaw Fitness Today HERE: www.ColawFitness.com) Download A Millionaire's Guide to Become Sustainably Rich: A Step-by-Step Guide to Become a Successful Money-Generating and Time-Freedom Creating Business HERE: www.ThrivetimeShow.com/Millionaire See Thousands of Actual Client Success Stories from Real Clay Clark Clients Today HERE: https://www.thrivetimeshow.com/testimonials/ See Thousands of Case Studies Today HERE: www.thrivetimeshow.com/does-it-work/
Ken Schmidt is one of the most sought-after executive advisors and speakers. He earned his acclaim by leading Harley-Davidson's remarkable turnaround from financial ruin to global dominance in the 1990s. That transformation was based on his highly unconventional re-positioning of the motorcycle icon's marketplace presence. Ken shifted the company's culture from a “product-first” mindset to one that prioritized being memorable for how they connect with people. The company swiftly grew to become the most successful player in the fiercely-competitive worldwide motorcycle industry with the highest levels of customer loyalty of any consumer hardware brand in existence. Ken's success, unconventional business approach and playful outspokenness ultimately led him to consulting assignments with household-name brands and made him a highly requested speaker, with more than 1,200 keynotes presented globally to date. He is also the author of Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance, ghost-author of “100 Years of Harley-Davidson” (the best-selling motorsports book of all time), host of the Tailgating with Geniuses podcast and co-founder of Torque Sessions Leadership Training. What you will learn Discover Ken Schmidt's lifelong passion for motorcycles, inspired by icons like Evel Knievel, which led him to his pivotal role at Harley-Davidson. Learn how Harley-Davidson's turnaround involved shifting from a product-focused to a people-first approach. Understand how the establishment of the Harley Owners Group (HOG) turned dealerships into social hubs, which fostered a sense of belonging and camaraderie among riders. See how Harley-Davidson's success was built on distinctive branding pillars like lifestyle, freedom, camaraderie, individuality, and rebellion, making the brand stand out in a commoditized market. Recognize the importance of emphasizing human connection, as Harley-Davidson focused on making customers feel special and validated, leading to repeated business and deep brand loyalty. Reflect on how AI and technology can be used to enhance human connection rather than replace it, making businesses more human by allowing them to focus on customer interactions and validation.
Most businesses struggle to stand out and truly differentiate themselves in today's crowded and competitive landscape. They often rely too heavily on promoting their products or services, failing to realize that customers form connections based on an organization's culture and humanity.Gayle Lantz speaks with Ken Schmidt, a driving force behind Harley-Davidson's legendary turnaround and global dominance. Ken shifted the company's mindset from a product-first approach to one that prioritized creating memorable experiences and emotional connections with customers.Find the full show notes at: https://workmatters.com/Lessons-from-Harley-Davidsons-Turnaround-The-Unconventional-Path-to-Dominating-Your-Market-with-Ken-Schmidt
In this episode of 5G Talent Talk, Carrie Charles speaks with Ken Schmidt, President of Steel in the Air, Inc. Steel in the Air provides guidance to thousands of clients across the United States on cell tower and cell site leases. Ken's many years of experience has led him to become a pivotal thought leader in the industry, using his knowledge to guide hundreds of municipalities through the complexities of cell tower lease issues. His expertise also extends to assisting private and public landowners, as well as major entities in the airline, subway, university, and public utility sectors.They discuss the increase in activity the wireless industry has seen in the first half of 2024 as well as how master lease agreements between public tower companies and wireless carriers have changed significantly, with carriers now looking to alternative private tower company models for more favorable terms. Ken also shares his thoughts on how the meteoric rise of AI will change the telecom industry and how individuals can adapt. Being open and willing to change is crucial for both survival and success. Join the 5G Talent Talk community today: broadstaffglobal.comInstagramLinkedInFacebookYouTube
In this episode, Ken Schmidt offers insights into market leadership. He defines success, emphasizes collaboration, and outlines turnaround strategies. Schmidt values learning from failures and prioritizes others' success. His approach involves seeking peer wisdom and inclusive decision-making, reflecting a proactive path to achievement.Watch the full episode on youtube: https://youtu.be/ESZiSTmOqrsAbout Ken SchmidtAs a former communications director at Harley-Davidson, he contributed to a celebrated corporate turnaround while enjoying motorcycle rides on the job. A renowned thought leader, he's delivered over a thousand engaging keynote speeches worldwide on competition, brand management, and more. His latest book, "Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance," offers unique insights into enhancing competitiveness, reflecting his unexpected perspective.Please click here to learn more about: https://kenspeaks.com/About Brad SugarsInternationally known as one of the most influential entrepreneurs, Brad Sugars is a bestselling author, keynote speaker, and the #1 business coach in the world. Over the course of his 30-year career as an entrepreneur, Brad has become the CEO of 9+ companies and is the owner of the multimillion-dollar franchise ActionCOACH®. As a husband and father of five, Brad is equally as passionate about his family as he is about business. That's why, Brad is a strong advocate for building a business that works without you – so you can spend more time doing what really matters to you. Over the years of starting, scaling and selling many businesses, Brad has earned his fair share of scars. Being an entrepreneur is not an easy road. But if you can learn from those who have gone before you, it becomes a lot easier than going at it alone.Please click here to learn more about Brad Sugars: https://bradsugars.com/Learn the Fundamentals of Success for free:The Big Success Starter: https://results.bradsugars.com/thebigsuccess-starter
Ken Schmidt grew up in State College, Pennsylvania, where the vibrant campus life of Penn State University in the 60s shaped his early years. Despite his parents' lack of interest in motorcycles—his mother being a nurse and his father an engineer—Ken developed a passion for them at a young age. Ken majored in marketing and embarked on a career in PR in Chicago, working across various industries, including the fascinating funeral industry. During a marketing association meeting, Ken discovered that no one wanted to handle Harley-Davidson's account due to its poor reputation in 1985. Undeterred, Ken saw this as a unique opportunity and passionately pursued it, feeling it was his calling. Ken moved from Chicago to Milwaukee to join Harley-Davidson at a critical juncture in the company's history. Tasked with improving the company's image and attracting investors, Ken faced the challenge of distancing Harley-Davidson from its negative associations with criminality and biker gangs. He and his team redefined the brand by emphasizing a lifestyle of freedom and community, making people feel good about themselves and part of a larger group. Through grassroots marketing efforts, Ken and his team engaged directly with riders, gathering feedback to understand their needs and improve offerings. By fostering a strong social aspect around the brand, they built loyalty and revitalized Harley-Davidson's image, leading to its resurgence. Ken's main message for businesses is to compete on identity rather than products. He believes in emphasizing unique human aspects and building strong emotional connections with customers, making the business more memorable, attractive, and distinctive. During financial hardships, Harley-Davidson couldn't rely on expensive advertising. Instead, Ken's team focused on grassroots marketing, organizing events and engaging directly with the audience. This personal engagement created a sense of community and loyalty, making customers feel part of something special.
Learn More About Attending the Highest Rated and Most Reviewed Business Workshops On the Planet Hosted by Clay Clark In Tulsa, Oklahoma HERE: https://www.thrivetimeshow.com/business-conferences/ See the Thousands of Success Stories and Millionaires That Clay Clark Has Helped to Produce HERE: https://www.thrivetimeshow.com/testimonials/ Clay Clark Testimonials | "Clay Clark Has Helped Us to Grow from 2 Locations to Now 6 Locations. Clay Has Done a Great Job Helping Us to Navigate Anything That Has to Do with Running the Business, Building the System, the Workflows, to Buy Property." - Charles Colaw (Learn More Charles Colaw and Colaw Fitness Today HERE: www.ColawFitness.com) Download A Millionaire's Guide to Become Sustainably Rich: A Step-by-Step Guide to Become a Successful Money-Generating and Time-Freedom Creating Business HERE: www.ThrivetimeShow.com/Millionaire See Thousands of Actual Client Success Stories from Real Clay Clark Clients Today HERE: https://www.thrivetimeshow.com/testimonials/ See Thousands of Case Studies Today HERE: www.thrivetimeshow.com/does-it-work/
Learn More About Attending the Highest Rated and Most Reviewed Business Workshops On the Planet Hosted by Clay Clark In Tulsa, Oklahoma HERE: https://www.thrivetimeshow.com/business-conferences/ See the Thousands of Success Stories and Millionaires That Clay Clark Has Helped to Produce HERE: https://www.thrivetimeshow.com/testimonials/ Clay Clark Testimonials | "Clay Clark Has Helped Us to Grow from 2 Locations to Now 6 Locations. Clay Has Done a Great Job Helping Us to Navigate Anything That Has to Do with Running the Business, Building the System, the Workflows, to Buy Property." - Charles Colaw (Learn More Charles Colaw and Colaw Fitness Today HERE: www.ColawFitness.com) Download A Millionaire's Guide to Become Sustainably Rich: A Step-by-Step Guide to Become a Successful Money-Generating and Time-Freedom Creating Business HERE: www.ThrivetimeShow.com/Millionaire See Thousands of Actual Client Success Stories from Real Clay Clark Clients Today HERE: https://www.thrivetimeshow.com/testimonials/ See Thousands of Case Studies Today HERE: www.thrivetimeshow.com/does-it-work/
Tune into this week's NKY Spotlight Podcast, presented by CVG! We are joined by Ken Schmidt of BAWAC, Incorporated, who highlights BAWAC's 50-year anniversary and how they're helping people with disabilities through rehabilitation and employment opportunities. On NKY @ Work, Nancy Spivey is joined by Leisa Snyder of Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, who shares how Atlas is developing diverse talent pipelines and staying competitive in the war for talent. Thank you to our sponsors Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, CKREU Consulting, and HORAN.
At Edmonton's recent KDays event, Alberta Innovates had the opportunity to participate as in-kind sponsors for the Innovation Zone led by Explore Edmonton. This was a great opportunity to meet and feature some Edmonton-based entrepreneurs, businesses and students on the Shift podcast. This is the third episode and it features my brief chat with Krishna Panchal from the University of Alberta's Future Creators. KDays Innovation Zone interviews also include:Jean Bruce Koua from Elev Homes,Ken Schmidt and Kathy Janzen from Wilson Analytical, and Joe Callahan from Correct AI.Future CreatorsFuture Creators is a University of Alberta Engineering student group and nonprofit organization that inspires future engineers and technology innovators by providing youth with the mentors, knowledge, and resources to bring their own technology projects to life.They partner with schools to provide a weekly afterschool program to students in grades 7-12.Shift by Alberta Innovates focuses on the people, businesses and organizations that are contributing to Alberta's strong tech ecosystem.
Welcome to episode two of our KDays Innovation Zone retrospective! Alberta Innovates had the opportunity to participate as in-kind sponsors for the Innovation Zone led by Explore Edmonton. This was a great opportunity to meet and feature some Edmonton-based entrepreneurs, businesses and students on the Shift podcast. This second episode is my discussion with Kathy Janzen and Ken Schmidt from Wilson Analytical Services. We dive into the work they're doing in the area of spectroscopy. Other KDays Innovation Zone interviews include:Jean Bruce Koua from Elev Homes,Krishna Panchal from the University of Alberta's Future Creators, and Joe Callahan from Correct AI.BiosKen Schmidt, President and founderKen is an Alberta based Professional Chemist and entrepreneur. He completed his PhD in Inorganic Chemistry at the University of Calgary in 1990. Over the last 25 years, he has worked with universities and the mining and energy industries to solve industry specific problems in sulfur chemistry, catalysis, ceramics, chemical vapour deposition (CVD) coatings and spectroscopy. His expertise is in industrial analytical chemistry, process laboratories for industry, instrument design, manufacturing, sales and technical support.He has been involved in several high tech start-ups, including Wilson Analytical (which he co-founded in 2003). He is also President of Canadian Tool, a Montreal firm specializing in machining and manufacturing. Ken's key role at Wilson is technical development and customer relations.Kathy Janzen, Vice President and founder Kathy is a professional Chemist with twenty-five years of experience with the RCMP as a forensic scientist, followed by two years as one of the principles of the analytical services side of Wilson Analytical. She was also involved in several high tech start-ups, and worked with entrepreneurs at the Northern Alberta Business Incubator (NABI).Kathy served 10 years as the Executive Director of the Association of the Chemical Profession of Alberta (ACPA) and was also the former council chair of the Federation of Canada's Professional Chemists. Kathy's main role with Wilson is financial and strategic planning, sales, and human resources. Together, Ken and Kathy make all company business decisions.Shift by Alberta Innovates focuses on the people, businesses and organizations that are contributing to Alberta's strong tech ecosystem.
Welcome to episode one of our KDays Innovation Zone retrospective! Alberta Innovates had the opportunity to participate as in-kind sponsors for the Innovation Zone led by Explore Edmonton. This was a great opportunity to meet and feature some Edmonton-based entrepreneurs, businesses and students on the Shift podcast. Other KDays Innovation Zone interviews include:Krishna Panchal from the University of Alberta's Future Creators, Kathy Janzen and Ken Schmidt from Wilson Analytical, and Joe Callahan from Correct AI.This third episode is my discussion with Jean Bruce Koua from Elev Homes. Born from the shared struggles of three university students - Jean Bruce, and his partners Kevin Mpunga and Kwasi Boateng - Elev started as a side project but quickly turned into a mission.These three weren't just sympathetic observers of the student housing struggle - they were in the thick of it themselves. Their drive to find a solution came from firsthand experience; they knew that by fixing this issue for others, they'd be fixing it for their own lives too. BioDubbed the "Master of Making Things Happen," Jean Bruce Koua is one of Elev's founders. His first 'student home' in Canada was a budget hotel room. Jean Bruce believes challenges are the greatest form of learning opportunities, and once overcome, can help efficiently address other sets of obstacles. As the co-founder of Elev, he is able to provide tools to help students facing challenges navigating the off campus housing market, an experience he endured as an International student studying in Canada. Having worked in both the public sector with the Federal Government of Canada, and the private sector with the Alberta Investment Management Corporation, he is able to provide strategic input in the growth of Elev. Being able to merge his economics and problem solving skills allow him to make informed and calculated decisions that are key to the success of the startup. Jean Bruce Koua believes that learning from one another is very important and looks forward to connecting with great minded people in the community! (LinkedIn profile)Shift by Alberta Innovates focuses on the people, businesses and organizations that are contributing to Alberta's strong tech ecosystem.
Learn more about Ken Schmidt and his keynotes: https://premierespeakers.com/ken_schmidt It's an impersonal world, where so many products and services are seen as easily-replaced, indistinct commodities. Whether you stand out or get lost in the crowd is a choice. A mindset. Ken Schmidt faced those same challenges himself and gained acclaim for his role in the extraordinary turnaround of the legendary Harley-Davidson Motor Company. That transformation was based on a change in mindset and a focus on answering three key strategic questions. While times have changed, what humans want and need from the businesses they buy from and work for hasn't. In his high-energy speeches, Ken inspires companies and individuals to shift their thinking and ride a path to success by becoming memorable – not for what they do or what they make, but for how they connect with people. Ken is author of Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance. He's also host of the Tailgating with Geniuses podcast and co-founder of Torque Sessions Leadership Training. In all of his endeavors, Ken brings an unconventional perspective that helps organizations and individuals reframe how they engage with their marketplace.
Clay Clark Testimonials | "Clay Clark Has Helped Us to Grow from 2 Locations to Now 6 Locations. Clay Has Done a Great Job Helping Us to Navigate Anything That Has to Do with Running the Business, Building the System, the Workflows, to Buy Property." - Charles Colaw (Learn More Charles Colaw and Colaw Fitness Today HERE: www.ColawFitness.com) See the Thousands of Success Stories and Millionaires That Clay Clark Has Coached to Success HERE: https://www.thrivetimeshow.com/testimonials/ Learn More About Attending the Highest Rated and Most Reviewed Business Workshops On the Planet Hosted by Clay Clark In Tulsa, Oklahoma HERE: https://www.thrivetimeshow.com/business-conferences/ Download A Millionaire's Guide to Become Sustainably Rich: A Step-by-Step Guide to Become a Successful Money-Generating and Time-Freedom Creating Business HERE: www.ThrivetimeShow.com/Millionaire See Thousands of Actual Client Success Stories from Real Clay Clark Clients Today HERE: https://www.thrivetimeshow.com/testimonials/
Is your company in need of a turn-around? In 1985 Harley Davidson Motor Company found itself within just hours of bankruptcy. Overwhelmed by the Japanese competition, the recession that had hit America and the onslaught of management missteps the company needed to change something if it was going to survive. Harley Davidson hired Ken Schmidt to serve as the Chief Communication Officer and to help turn the company around.
In this episode with Ken Schmidt, a former director of communication at Harley-Davidson and the president of Ken Schmidt Companies, we explore the dynamics of market dominance. Schmidt's insights cover his definition of success, strategies for fostering collaboration, and principles for successful turnarounds. He highlights the value of learning from failures and the significance of making clients and colleagues shine. Schmidt's dedication to seeking knowledge from successful peers and involving stakeholders in important decisions underscores his proactive approach to achievement.Ken SchmidtAs a former communications director at Harley-Davidson, he contributed to a celebrated corporate turnaround while enjoying motorcycle rides on the job. A renowned thought leader, he's delivered over a thousand engaging keynote speeches worldwide on competition, brand management, and more. His latest book, "Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance," offers unique insights into enhancing competitiveness, reflecting his unexpected perspective.Please click here to learn more about Ken Schmidt.About Brad SugarsInternationally known as one of the most influential entrepreneurs, Brad Sugars is a bestselling author, keynote speaker, and the #1 business coach in the world. Over the course of his 30-year career as an entrepreneur, Brad has become the CEO of 9+ companies and is the owner of the multimillion-dollar franchise ActionCOACH®. As a husband and father of five, Brad is equally as passionate about his family as he is about business. That's why, Brad is a strong advocate for building a business that works without you – so you can spend more time doing what really matters to you. Over the years of starting, scaling and selling many businesses, Brad has earned his fair share of scars. Being an entrepreneur is not an easy road. But if you can learn from those who have gone before you, it becomes a lot easier than going at it alone.Please click here to learn more about Brad Sugars: https://bradsugars.com/Learn the Fundamentals of Success for free:The Big Success Starter: https://results.bradsugars.com/thebigsuccess-starter
As the former director of communications for Harley-Davidson Motor Company, he played an active role in one of the most celebrated turnarounds in corporate history – and got paid to ride motorcycles. Widely known and respected as one of the business world's most outspoken, provocative, and entertaining thought leaders on competition, brand management, positioning, reputation management, human behavior, and loyalty, and has delivered more than one thousand keynote speeches to business and education groups around the globe. His newest book (released November, 2018), “Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance,” teaches how to improve business and personal competitiveness and is shared from his, as always, extraordinarily unexpected point of view.Please click here to learn more about Ken Schmidt.About Brad Sugars Internationally known as one of the most influential entrepreneurs, Brad Sugars is a bestselling author, keynote speaker, and the #1 business coach in the world. Over the course of his 30-year career as an entrepreneur, Brad has become the CEO of 9+ companies and is the owner of the multimillion-dollar franchise ActionCOACH®. As a husband and father of five, Brad is equally as passionate about his family as he is about business. That's why, Brad is a strong advocate for building a business that works without you – so you can spend more time doing what really matters to you. Over the years of starting, scaling and selling many businesses, Brad has earned his fair share of scars. Being an entrepreneur is not an easy road. But if you can learn from those who have gone before you, it becomes a lot easier than going at it alone. That's why Brad has created 90 Days To Revolutionize Your Life – It's 30 minutes a day for 90 days, teaching you his 30 years experience on investing, business and life.Follow Brad on Social Media:YouTubeInstagramFacebookLinkedInTikTokTwitter30X LifeBrad Sugars' Entrepreneur University For more information, visit Brad Sugars' website: www.bradsugars.comThe Big Success Podcasthttps://businessinnovatorsradio.com/the-big-success-podcast/Source: https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/ep-3-ken-schmidt-the-big-success-podcast-with-brad-sugars
In the early 50's Peter Vincent saw a car that changed his life forever. He was a 6th grader standing on the corner for junior traffic control when a lowered, drop top Merc pulled up with frenched headlights, nosed and decked with a smooth bumper and no grill. Needless to say, it made an impression. He has been hooked on cars ever since, and his passion stayed with him as he bounced from mechanical engineering to architecture and finally landed in his true passion, photography. Like that Merc, the act of creation in photography grabbed Peter like nothing else and never let go. Peter learned photography from workshops with Ansel Adams and Edward Weston, taking in their formalism and methodical zone system of visualizing, measuring and capturing images. As he honed his craft, he turned his camera to cars. Much like architecture and landscape photography, cars provided subjects with lines and shapes that appealed to his passion for disciplined image making. Bonneville provided the perfect setting to capture hot rods in their purest form, built by like-minded car enthusiasts with their own spin on disciplined craftsmanship. Since those first images, Peter has published five books of photography and made a reputation for himself as the premier hot rod photographer. We talk with Peter about his extensive experience in photography, his own cars and getting to know early hot rod legends like Keith Cornell and Ken Schmidt of the Rolling Bones hot rod shop. Don't miss the Speedway Motors Museum of American Speed feature of Peter Vincent https://www.museumofamericanspeed.com/peter_vincent_photographer.html
Ken Schmidt returns to the JMO Podcast to talk about breaking down new water for trophy walleyes. Ken lives in Glasgow Montana near Fort Peck reservoir, a well known trophy fishery. Ken also gives great advice on fishing the many other great walleye fisheries in Montana that are under appreciated. It's great to hear from Ken once again after his 2021 North Dakota Governors Cup walleye tournament victory. Please subscribe to this JMO Podcast channel and comment your favorite topics, questions as well as your recommendations for guests to have on future episodes.
We're not wired to be loyal to products or services, no matter how well they perform. We're only capable of being loyal to people and to well-managed brands that successfully humanize their presence by creating emotional resonance with us. Imagine the value to your company when you create an experience that compels loyalty. And that applies to your customers and your employees. Ken Schmidt shares his experience building tattoo-worthy customer relationships during his time at Harley-Davidson. To learn more about Ken Schmidt, visit https://kenspeaks.com/.
Ken Schmidt led the recovery of the Harley Davidson company and brand. Listen as Mike and Jackie talk about the learnings centered around “What are people saying about our company?” “What do I want them to say about our company?” & “What are we doing to make that happen?” Need some help creating and implementing these ideas? Click for a complimentary business strategy session to find out how your energy is affecting your team's results today! http://makemoreworkless.actioncoach.com/mmwl-diag-and-questions/
After Episode 19's postmortem of a particularly painful 2021, your Tolerable Hosts to kick off a new season by copping to the many imprecise projections we posited in the past year's shows and making pragmatic predictions for 2022. Meaning: We're setting ourselves up for another year of mid-course corrections and mea culpas (plus more cheap alliteration). But that's just business as usual. The return to work story will never die. Ditto supply chain issues. But cannabis, crypto and climate are even more fun to talk about. As are four-day and hybrid work-weeks. And the upcoming epic billionaire space disaster the media continues to ignore. Hear it here first.
Ooof...what a year! Our Brilliant Guests get a break and we wrap up 2020 with a show about the biggest event each host felt defined the year that was and what it means going forward. Lekan talks January 6th that includes part of his life story as an immigrant to the US: Ken talks division and how it's affecting his day to day life; and Martin talks supply chain and the Ever Given that blocked the Suez Canal and how our entire system of business was rocked. And we conclude with a year end "What Got Our Attention".
Greg Schwem is an author, nationally syndicated humor columnist, TV travel host, as built a career doing so along with developing a unique perspective on the changing state business. His views on corporate communications, marketing and the need for businesses to take themselves less serious show a need for more humor in the workplace, but with limitations.
With an 11-year playing career in the NFL and two Super Bowl rings with the New England Patriots, Don Davis knows the game. At the NFL Players Association he knows the business of the game having just lead the negotiations for the CBA (Collective Bargaining Agreement) that will change all aspects of players financial lives in and after their time in the league. Candid, funny and blunt...Don shares insights to the changing nature of the game of football, how we now look at the game and how that will change in the next years. Don brings his personal story to the table as well and his association's work to drive financial freedom and success for all players.
Across three episodes, Jeff Richards & David Beard from the Sage CRM team, talk with Ken Schmidt from s5CRM.ca, based in London, Ontario, Canada. In this episode Ken explains how his latest product, S5Maps, is much more than just another route mapping tool, we ask Ken what he'd like to see in future releases of Sage CRM and Jeff outlines some thoughts on inclusions for future releases.
Across three episodes, Jeff Richards & David Beard from the Sage CRM team, talk with Ken Schmidt from s5CRM.ca, based in London, Ontario, Canada. In this episode Ken explains how his latest product, S5Maps, is much more than just another route mapping tool, we ask Ken what he'd like to see in future releases of Sage CRM and Jeff outlines some thoughts on inclusions for future releases.
Dan Bush is a film maker, director, writer, producer and now podcast creator who has taken his ideas from independent movies to international renowned. Most recently his 13 episode immersive sci-fi thriller "Tomorrow's Monsters" starring John Boyega and Darren Criss has become a podcast hit that's gotten the attention of both the media and Hollywood. We talk about the determination, goals, focus and the essential need of pivoting to different thinking when the opportunity presents itself. Also Reece Witherspoon, Scarlett Johansson and Rhyianna are part of our discussion of platforms and the changing landscape of "IP".
Across three episodes, Jeff Richards & David Beard from the Sage CRM team, talk with Ken Schmidt from s5CRM.ca, based in London, Ontario, Canada. In this episode Ken reflects on the changes that working from home has meant for businesses investing in CRM, the extensive usage he has made of web self-service for customers and Jeff reflects on the rise of collaborative tools and their resonance with CRM, posing thoughts to Ken about the concept of a digital assistant.
Ken Schmidt was born and raised in Minot, ND and now resides in Glasgow, MT. Schmidt has fished the Missouri River Reservoirs his entire life. An impressive tournament resume that includes several top ten finishes, winning both the MT and ND Governor's Cups. Ken and his partner Mark Jones have had incredible success on Lake Sakakawea by winning the ND Governor's Cup AGAIN in 2021 after winning the tournament in 2014. A tremendous amount of walleye wisdom in this week's JMO Podcast! Make sure to subscribe to the channel. We appreciate the support and always welcome the feedback. Go to the comment section to let us know guests or topics you would like to hear on a future episode of the JMO Podcast.
For Chuck Runyon, CEO of Self Esteem Brands, building Anytime Fitness into one of the largest and most valuable non-food franchises in the world takes passion and resolve in equal measure. Being at the helm during the shutdown of more than 4,000 mom-and-pop franchises around the world during the pandemic was a challenge few could have weathered so successfully. Now Anytime Fitness and Self Esteem's other health, fitness and nutrition brands are roaring back to life to the delight of its legions of countless fans -- even gym fanatics in Antarctica -- who bare their Anytime tattoos with pride. He's clearly on to something you should know about.Plus we discuss marketing the Covid vaccine.
Across three episodes, Jeff Richards & David Beard from the Sage CRM team, talk with Ken Schmidt from s5CRM.ca, based in London, Ontario, Canada. In this episode, we talk to Ken about their entry into the world of Sage CRM back in the early 2000s, the customers he has worked with, and how he positions solutions with integrations, web self-service, and more.
Gabe Wing has spent 20 years at Herman Miller and is their Director of Sustainability. When Gabe talks about ethical companies and corporate behavior we listen. Herman Miller is renowned as a leader in corporate social responsibility, environmental stewardship all while making some of the most beautiful products available around the world. We talk about what the capital markets are looking for and the value brands that present their diversity, governance, sustainability actions; and the scorecards that are being created about those companies. Additionally: We talk to Bellow.press publisher Rob Kirkbride about the return to office. (And man...Rob doesn't mince words!)
Dana Arnett is a founding partner and CEO of VSA Partners, one of the world's largest and most successful design and marketing firms. Dana and his teams have led design, marketing, digital and interactive initiatives for multiple household-name brands, including Nike, Anheuser Busch, Google, IBM, AT&T, Harley-Davidson and Toyota.. There's a great reason CEO's of top companies want his advice on how to build their businesses: Nobody tops his wealth of experience and success. Also: Additional content shows greater tension in return to work. Additionally the hosts discuss what got their attention this week; Foos, space and soap
Sarah Robb O'Hagan - CEO at EXOS, The Human Performance Company. Named among Fast Company's “Most Creative People in Business” and Forbes' "Most Powerful Women in Sports,” she led the reinvention and turnaround of Gatorade as its global president and led major marketing initiatives at Nike and Virgin Atlantic. Fearless, frank, and funny in talking about learning from failures and inspiring greatness. Also: Multiple surveys indicate massive shifts in worker expectations about how they work
Mitch Lowe - Founding Exec at Netflix, COO at Redbox and discusses retail, growth, pivoting business models and making tough decisions. His start from a Northern California video store owner put him on a path that changed how the world watches movies and consumes content.
Tower leasing is a big topic these days.U.S. mobile network operators, AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile, are upgrading or modifying master lease agreements with the Big 3 public tower companies, American Tower, Crown Castle and SBA Communications, as these MNOs implement their 5G network builds.Big 3 towercos cater to MNO near- and long-term needs. But mid-tier and small tower owners and landowners often get into uncomfortable negotiations when MNOs want to locate on their tower or build a tower on their land.What leasing terms and conditions should apply? What are appropriate lease rates? And how are these rates determined?Ken Schmidt, President, Steel in the Air, an expert on site leasing, unpacks these issues in conversation with John Celentano, Inside Towers Business Editor.Support the show (https://insidetowers.com/subscription/)
Ken Schmidt is widely respected as one of the business world's most outspoken, provocative, and entertaining thought leaders on competition, brand management, positioning, reputation management, human behavior, and loyalty. As a leadership advisor and keynote speaker for business and education groups around the globe, Ken draws from his newest book, Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance, and teaches how to improve business and personal competitiveness, as always, with his extraordinarily unexpected point of view. The longtime motorcycle enthusiast's formal association with Harley-Davidson began in 1985. As a specialist in corporate positioning and media relations, he was asked to work with the struggling company to help restore its image, improve its competitiveness, and create demand for its motorcycles. Within a few short years, as sales of its motorcycles rocketed upward, Harley-Davidson became one of the most respected, competitively dominant, profitable, and frequently reported-on companies in the world. In 1990, Schmidt became director of Harley-Davidson's corporate and financial communications, and served as its primary spokesperson to the media and the financial communities, offering insights on nontraditional communications, customer attraction, and brand-building. Since leaving Harley-Davidson to help other businesses improve their competitiveness, he's worked with a Who's Who of the world's best-known brands while combining his two greatest passions, motorcycling and speaking. He also co-wrote a book, 100 Years of Harley-Davidson, the best-selling motorsports book of all time.
Ken Schmidt of The X Bands stops in. Ken is a veteran and creator of The X Bands. The X Bands are a revolutionary fitness product. Thanks to our main sponsors: https://www.pulsar-nv.com/glo/ https://www.gallowtech.com https://rhinosafe.com https://www.galcogunleather.com/ https://blackwaterammunition.com https://ritonoptics.com www.JohnBartoloShow.com Visit our Friends: Kenzies Optics www.KenziesOptics.com Visit Microtech Knives https://microtechknives.com/
Ken Schmidt has lived a life that most can only dream about. He has toured the world on two wheels, met with presidents and royalty, partied with movie and music legends, and appeared numerous times on network news. As the former director of communications for Harley-Davidson Motor Company, he played an active role in one of the most celebrated turnarounds in corporate history – and got paid to ride motorcycles. He is widely known as one of the business world’s most outspoken and provocative thought leaders and has partnered with many of the world’s most successful brands. He shares stories and insights on the road to building a fanatically vocal customer base, creating a passionately loyal corporate culture, and developing leaders who inspire and motivate.
n this first part of a two part podcast I interview former Head of Communications at the Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Ken Schmidt. Ken was instrumental in one of the biggest turn-arounds in corporate history helping change the image and what was said and thought about the Harley-Davidson Motorbike. Ken has his own unique way of explaining things and in the first of a two part podcast, he'll explain to you how you and your business can 'Make Some Noise'. Learning points from the episode: Why 'haters' are a good thing. What the difference between 'also-rans' and 'dominators' are How important listening REALLY is and What you should REALLY do at Trade-Show's and Expo's Follow me on:
In this first part of a two part podcast I interview former Head of Communications at the Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Ken Schmidt. Ken was instrumental in one of the biggest turn-arounds in corporate history helping change the image and what was said and thought about the Harley-Davidson Motorbike. Ken has his own unique way of explaining things and in the first of a two part podcast, he'll explain to you how you and your business can 'Make Some Noise'. Learning points from the episode: Why 'haters' are a good thing. What the difference between 'also-rans' and 'dominators' are How important listening REALLY is and What you should REALLY do at Trade-Show's and Expo's Follow me on:
Start standing out to do in your crowded field of real estate agents. Popular motivational speaker, Ken Schmidt from Harley Davidson tells you how to make a splash in your town. To learn more visit www.prospectingtoday.com Don't forget to subscribe!
Guess what, we are ALL born creative! Then what the hell happens you're saying if you don't feel creative as an adult? Corporate creativity coach and author of The Creator Mindset Nir Bashan breaks it all down for us and provides things you can do right now to get those creative juices flowing again. Creativity leads to more profitability in companies, solutions in government, productive conversations about social justice and more. As always we learn how Nir chose this off the nose path in life and hear about real examples of how creativity has improved the lives of these CEOs, senior managers, authors, professors and more - people like CEO Jae Goodman of Observatory; Brig. Gen. Thomas Kolditz, Director of Rice University's Doerr Institute for New Leaders; Jonah Berger, Wharton Professor and bestselling author of Contagious and The Catalyst; General Stanley McChrystal, CEO of McChrystal Group; Mark C. Thompson, bestselling author, Venture Investor and Founder: Stanford University Realtime Venture Design Lab; Dr. John Whyte, MD, MPH, Chief Medical Officer at WebMD; Ken Schmidt, author of Make Some Noise and former Director of Communications, Harley-Davidson Motor Company; Amy C. Edmondson, Professor of Leadership and Management, Harvard Business School; Douglas P. Wickert, Colonel, Professor and Head of the Department of Aeronautics; William Taylor, Cofounder, Fast Company.
Are you finding yourself perpetually putting out burning fires and reactively dealing with daily office and employee drama? On today’s show, Ken Schmidt the former Chief Communications Officer shares why nothing works unless you hire high-quality people.
Turning a hobby into a business. Our guest today is Ken Schmidt, owner of Charlotte Sports Collectibles, which specializes in catering to memories and memorabilia through multiple channels including sports cards and hobby supplies. In this episode, we discuss sports memorabilia, corporate world to entrepreneurship, and the impact of technology on the collectibles. ------ Ken developed his passion for card collecting throughout his childhood but always wanted to open his own shop. The corporate grind was a major factor in turning his passion into a reality. His path provides inspiration to those forging ahead in life and business. We hope you enjoy the conversation with Ken Schmidt. The post EP077: Perspectives from a Sports Memorabilia Collector with Ken Schmidt appeared first on KazSource.
Is your company in need of a turn-around? In 1985 Harley Davidson Motor Company found itself within just hours of bankruptcy. Overwhelmed by the Japanese competition, the recession that had hit America and the onslaught of management missteps the company needed to change something if it was going to survive. Harley Davidson hired Ken Schmidt to serve as the Chief Communication Officer and to help turn the company around.
Ken Schmidt, former director of communications at Harley-Davidson Motor Company, discusses his new book, Make Some Noise, and unique philosophy to making sure your branding and marketing stand out from the competition.
Ken Schmidt explains: Why great products don’t sell themselves, how to hire and retain great people, what to do when you are running out of money, how to create a community of engaged customers and employees, where most business owners get it wrong when designing a product or service and more
Beer Tasters - Craft Beer & Home Brewing Podcast - Starwalker Studios
We taste Ken Schmidt Mint Chocolate Imperial Stout and Reuben's Brews Crikey American IPA.
Season 1, Episode 30 - Happy holidays, everyone! This week, it’s all about the holiday brews. Damn, these last few months have gone by fast! It’s already that magical time of year when you stress out over the perfect gifts to give your friends and family, freak out at your Uncle’s twisted viewpoints on the latest controversial news topics, watch grandpa fall asleep at 4:30pm, and crack open your favorite holiday brews. This week, John Ryti and Tim “Showtime” Ryan join us for the last time in 2014, and we’re opening some…wait for it…holiday brews! Ken Schmidt / Iron Fist Brewing Company Collaboration We kick the show off with a beer that’s not necessarily a holiday beer, but was brewed by a local beer celebrity of sorts, who is actually quite jolly. We’re talking about none other than San Diego, California’s own Ken Schmidt. He got together with Iron Fist Brewing Company out of Vista, California, and made a chocolate mint stout, appropriately named Chocolate Mint Stout, that’s quite fitting for the season. Ken’s a great guy, and you can’t miss him in public–he’s always sporting his short pants, a Hawaiian shirt, and a big smile. Next up is a pretty rad tasting of some vintage Our Special Ale from Anchor Brewing Company, specifically the years 1995, 1996, and 2005. Jason picked these up at Stuffed Sandwich a while back, and he graciously donated them to the show. Anchor Brewing Company – Our Special Ale Our Special Ale is a beer that changes slightly from year to year. The recipe tends to be a little different, but is always reminiscent of the previous years it’s been brewed. The final two beers on the show are from some local SoCal breweries. First up is Noble Ale Works‘ You’ll Shoot Your Eye Out, Kid! which is a winter warmer made with organic apple cider. Beer nerds tend to have mixed feeling when is comes to apples in beer, generally because “apple flavor” is usually considered to be an off-flavor, but that’s not always the case. Noble Ale Works and Karl Strauss Brewing Company The final beer is from Karl Strauss Brewing Company, Five Wee Heavy Bells. Karl Strauss has been following the 12 Days of Christmas theme, and this is the fifth release in the series. Karl’s holiday beers are usually some of their best yearly releases, and this brew is no exception. The show tends to dip in and out of the good ol’ “third show syndrome”, but we hold it together and don’t embarrass ourselves too much. I guess one could say that we’re like those dudes at a holiday party that are having a bit more fun than everyone else. Le sigh… Oh yeah…If you’re feeling the holiday spirit and would like to show your love for the show, please considering become a Patron at our Patreon page. XOXOXO So, yeah. Happy holidays from 4B and BREW THE SHIT OUT OF IT! Subscribe to the show:RSSiTunes – While you’re there, leave a review of 4B!Stitcher Thumb us up on Facebook:facebook.com/fourbrewers Follow us on Twitter:twitter.com/fourbrewersshow Got a question? Feedback? Email us:feedback at fourbrewers dot com. Help support Four Brewers!Support the show on Patreon!Donate via PayPal