Podcasts about People First

How Discipline, Speaking Life, and the Rule of 10 Create Explosive Growth in Faith-Based Leadership and Team CultureIf you've ever wondered why your business isn't growing, what if the real issue isn't your systems—it's your people? In this powerful episode, I share a heartfelt conversation I had with my Pops (he's wise, honest—and yes, blunt)—and how he boiled our biggest business meltdown down to one simple truth: “Build the people and then allow the people to build the business.”Drawing on the transformative lessons from Proverbs 13, we dive into:Why discipline over convenience is a non-negotiable. How speaking life early and often changes a culture (private > public).The power of the “Rule of 10” — serve one person incredibly well, then leverage the ripple.Why overcomplicating leadership is the growth killer; simplicity and clarity are the rocket fuel.Applying biblical wisdom to your team, your mission, and your leadership identity.

How does a three-person L&D team support 23,000 associates across seven states? In this episode, Chris Chappell, Director of Learning & Development at Weis Markets, shares how servant leadership, clear career paths, and just-in-time video microlearning are elevating the employee experience—and the customer experience—across retail, manufacturing, and logistics. Show Notes:Weis Market's Chris Chappell offers many key takeaways to empower team members to succeed. His top points include: Lead as a servant, not a boss. Chris Chappell centers L&D on servant leadership—meeting associates' needs, anchoring to mission, and role-modeling behaviors so people trust and follow. Career paths + strong leadership = retention. Provide clear growth paths and accountable leaders. Weis Markets' leadership development now spans five levels and correlates with higher engagement and reduced turnover that is 20–25 points lower than retail averages. Make learning “in the moment.” Snapshot video microlearning—accessed via QR codes embedded in SOPs—powers fast cross-training (e.g., moving a bakery associate to deli) and reduces friction during call-offs. Do fewer things, better. “Ruthless prioritization” keeps work aligned to mission, strategy, core operations, and compliance. The team consolidated ~1,798 courses to ~800 and is rebuilding high-value content for mobile delivery in Workday Learning. Build a distributed training network. Centralize standards and content, then empower expert trainers across departments to deliver. Add feedback loops with structured homework and report-outs so learners hold themselves accountable. Powered by Learning earned Awards of Distinction in the Podcast/Audio and Business Podcast categories from The Communicator Awards and a Gold and Silver Davey Award. The podcast is also named to Feedspot's Top 40 L&D podcasts and Training Industry's Ultimate L&D Podcast Guide. Learn more about d'Vinci at www.dvinci.com. Follow us on LinkedInLike us on Facebook

Send us a message!In this episode, Alex & Annie head to Florida's scenic 30A to sit down with Dylan Bozarth, General Manager of 30A Escapes, for a real conversation about leadership, culture, and what it takes to build a team that truly lasts in the fast-paced vacation rental world.Dylan shares how his decade-long journey at 30A Escapes has shaped a people-first approach to property management. One that values work-life balance, communication, and genuine hospitality as the keys to long-term success.We discuss:1️⃣ The challenges of managing vacation rentals along the 30A corridor2️⃣ How leadership and team structure can prevent burnout3️⃣ Creative ways to engage and communicate with homeowners4️⃣ Why defining core values transforms company culture5️⃣ The importance of collaboration among local property managers6️⃣ Insights on market shifts post-2021 and preparing for sustainable growthThis episode is a reminder that growth starts with your people and that sustainable success in hospitality is built from the inside out.Connect with Dylan:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-bozarth-6225b8338/Website: https://www.30aescapes.com/ Get 20% off any yearly or bi-yearly Lodgify plan, plus free personalized onboarding (a $3,000 value).

Apply for the May 2026 Japan Leadership Experience—https://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/Where is your primary focus as a leader, change practitioner, or organization? Getting business results? Improving processes? Or developing people? What if the real key to lasting business success isn't found in metrics or milestones—but in how you create a culture that nurtures people and their problem-solving capabilities? In this episode I explore what it really takes to deliver sustainable organizational success, and why building a people-centered learning culture—one where developing others isn't an afterthought, but the foundation that enables operational excellence and, ultimately, better business outcomes.Effective leadership begins when you shift from managing results to developing people—creating the conditions for continuous improvement, engagement, and growth.When you put people first, results follow.Whether you are a senior executive, lean practitioner, or team leader, that's how you build organizations that learn, adapt, and thrive—today and for generations to come.YOU'LL LEARN:How Toyota's philosophy of Monozukuri wa hitozukuri (“We make people so we can make things”) shapes a people-first culture of learning and improvementWhy focusing on people → process → results (not the reverse) drives lasting impact across teams and organizationsThe interdependence of three qualities that support business success  —quality of people development, quality of work, and quality of results – to create sustainable impact Insights from real leaders about how shifting from results-focused to people-focused leadership led to  significant measurable improvement in business outcomesHow to model intentional leadership practices to develop people, foster engagement, and sustain a culture of continuous learning and improvementIMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes with links to other podcast episodes and resources: ChainOfLearning.com/58 Check out my website for resources and ways to work with me KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonLearn more about my Japan Leadership Experience: kbjanderson.com/japantripTIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:01:51 What leadership with purpose truly means02:06 Why Toyota's motto, “ The only secret to Toyota is its attitude towards learning,” is its secret to success03:18 Three interrelated qualities that determine lasting business success represented by a pyramid03:45 [Third level] Results - The outcomes customers see04:12 [Second level] Process - The technical and operational systems that make the work flow better04:37 [First level] People - The foundation that nurtures people, problem-solving, and learning05:28 Why the Western approach is backwards when it comes to people, processes, and results06:50 The meaning of the quote, “profit is excrement,” that captures the backwardness of the usual business approach to success07:39 The difference between lean as a transactional toolkit versus a way of nurturing people and problem solving at all levels07:53 Why putting people first is not just in Japan or for Toyota leaders08:41 Leaders who put people first as the foundation for success10:12 The challenge in putting people first10:38 An example from Gustavo of why our intentions and our actions are aligned12:29 Gustavo's realization that he had a people engagement problem13:20 The positive results in engagement when he focused on people first14:08 What leadership in action looks like14:35 What it really means to create a chain of learning across your organization15:00 The two pillars of the Toyota Way15:43 Three questions to ask yourself as you reflect on this episode16:26 Questions to ask your people to create a cycle of reflection and continuous improvement17:13 How to build organizations and leaders that last Apply for the May 2026 Japan Leadership Experiencehttps://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/

Innovation and transformation coach Ibeth Ayala discusses in her book “No Risk No Fun: The Human Side of Innovation in Insurance” how people-centered leadership helps insurance leaders conquer fear, unlock creativity and lead change.

In this insightful and engaging episode of Overdue Advice, host Bryn Griffiths welcomes Lorne Smith, MetCredit's new Senior Vice President and a 20+ year veteran of the credit collection industry. Lorne shares surprising insights on the evolution of the collections business, his personal journey, and the importance of mentorship, culture, and putting people first. They get into the impacts of technological changes, including AI's role, and discuss leadership, building strong teams, and adapting in a rapidly shifting industry. It's a window into MetCredit's phenomenal ability to retain great people, from one who started here, worked elsewhere ... and is clearly excited to be back.Episode Highlights:[00:00:27] - Introduction to Lorne Smith:Lorne Smith returns to MetCredit after years away, discussing his early start and long-standing mentorship under COO Marc Billard.[00:01:15] - The Importance of Culture:Lorne Smith emphasizes MetCredit's people-first, staff-driven culture and how crucial work-life balance is for him at this stage of his career.[00:02:13] - Finding Passion in Collections:He describes falling into the industry and discovering a natural fit due to his competitive nature and commitment to problem-solving.[00:03:17] - Problem-Solving & Listening:Lorne Smith highlights that listening is key to resolving issues in collections, whether dealing with consumers or team members.[00:04:17] - Lessons from His Career Gap:He learned vital management skills and the importance of balancing competitiveness with staff needs, as well as embracing technological changes.[00:06:44] - Putting People First:Lorne Smith discusses how genuine care and respect for people, both clients and employees, lead to success.[00:07:27] - Industry Evolution & Technology:He reviews the shift to digital outreach and stresses the need to continually adapt to the changing demographics and tech landscape.[00:08:52] - AI in Collections:Lorne Smith weighs the potential and limitations of AI in the industry, expressing cautious optimism while stressing that human interaction remains essential.[00:11:17] - Post-Pandemic Learnings:Reflecting on how the pandemic affected consumer behavior and the collections process, he notes the importance of strong foundational skills for new collectors.[00:13:09] - Building & Growing in Mississauga:Lorne Smith shares his ambitions for expanding MetCredit's reach in Central Canada and the importance of relationship-building.[00:14:03] - Looking Ahead:He discusses the challenges of sustainable growth and the necessity of building a solid foundation for staff development and company advancement.[00:16:28] - A Sense of Belonging:Lorne Smith expresses gratitude for returning to MetCredit and the positive, family-like atmosphere cultivated by leadership.Listen in for practical strategies, career advice, and forward-thinking perspectives on collections and leadership in a changing world!

On Mission Matters, Adam Torres interviews Bill Saad, Founder & Chairman of Jota2 Group, about leveraging trusted networks (Milken Asia Summit), AI, and cross-border founder matching to build real-world solutions—while advancing women's empowerment through Tara for Women. Follow Adam on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/askadamtorres/ for up to date information on book releases and tour schedule. Apply to be a guest on our podcast: https://missionmatters.lpages.co/podcastguest/ Visit our website: https://missionmatters.com/ More FREE content from Mission Matters here: https://linktr.ee/missionmattersmedia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Mission Matters, ⁠Adam Torres⁠ interviews ⁠Bill Saad⁠, Founder & Chairman of Jota2 Group, about leveraging trusted networks (Milken Asia Summit), AI, and cross-border founder matching to build real-world solutions—while advancing women's empowerment through Tara for Women. Follow Adam on Instagram at ⁠https://www.instagram.com/askadamtorres/⁠ for up to date information on book releases and tour schedule. Apply to be a guest on our podcast: ⁠https://missionmatters.lpages.co/podcastguest/⁠ Visit our website: ⁠https://missionmatters.com/⁠ More FREE content from Mission Matters here: ⁠https://linktr.ee/missionmattersmedia⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"...so much money and effort into technology that was really good, but it didn't stick." In this conversation, Heather interviews Val Coin, a digital transformation consultant, about her insights on business growth, the importance of systems, and the role of technology in enhancing human experiences.  Val shares her journey from hospitality to tech, emphasising the… The post #184: Val Coin: People-First Automation That Actually Works appeared first on Website Love.

Send us a textOn this episode on Connected Nation, we continue our coverage from rom Calix ConneXions 2025, taking place in Las Vegas Nevada. We talk with one man who just struck out on his own in the telecom and broadband industry, despite some of those uncertainties. Find out how he's planning to leverage his 35 years in the business to help others, and why he believes it was now or never.Recommended links: Calix ConneXions 2025Waypoint 33 websiteRandall Rene LinkedIn

Robert Wheeler — longtime communications leader at WarnerMedia, AT&T/Xandr, and GroupM — shares why he left the corporate world to build At the Moment Media (ATM), a people-first, video-led publication spotlighting personalities across advertising, technology, and media.He walks through how the brand came to life — from the black-and-white design and animated “M” mascot to its 5–6 minute storytelling format and short-form social clips. Robert also opens up about startup lessons, the state of modern comms, and how ATM plans to cover cultural business moments like the Latin GRAMMYs and BravoCon. Key Highlights

Would you like to know what drives us here at Big Fish? It's our people. While roofing and renovations are what we do, the relationships we build are really the heart of it all.    In this episode, we talk about what it means when we say we run a people-first company. We also dive into why trust and communication matter just as much as the quality of our work, and how our team culture has shaped everything we have built. When our people feel valued and supported, that's when some of the best work happens.   This episode offers a real look at what sets Big Fish apart: Our constant commitment to people first.     The Big Fish Docuseries is out now! Check it out on our YouTube channel!    To connect with Big Fish Contracting, you can check out our website at www.bigfishcontracting.com.     You can also follow us on our social channels:   Big Fish Contracting Instagram Big Fish Contracting Facebook

Join host Adam Larson for an insightful and refreshingly human conversation with Todd Thornock, Associate Professor at University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Academic Research Fellow at the Institute of Management Accountants. Todd brings a unique blend of academic research and real-world perspective to the art of understanding and motivating your team. In this episode, he explains why being “people first” matters even in a numbers-driven field like accounting and shares personal stories and surprising research findings on personality traits in the workplace. Discover practical tips to build trust, curiosity, and self-awareness as a leader, and learn how understanding the individual personalities on your team can transform your workplace culture. If you're looking for thoughtful takeaways and fresh motivation to connect with your colleagues, this conversation is packed with useful insights and inspiration to help you lead with empathy and intention.

Misty sits down with Simantel co-owner and principal Tim Leesman to talk leadership, partnership and growth, honoring the agency's roots and the power of strong client relationships.

Part Two picks up with John Bollman's answer about Pella's six culture accelerators and the link between culture and performance. John shares how Pella's intentional focus on leadership development, recruiting for fit, and integrating acquisitions has helped the company outperform its industry for years. He also reflects on lessons learned throughout his career — and why he believes the greatest gift a leader can give is a culture where people can thrive.

Ce lundi 3 novembre, les difficultés rencontrés par la croissance économique française et les conséquences du budget 2026 sur les entreprises ont été abordés par Markus Kerber, avocat et professeur de finances publiques à Berlin, Léonidas Kalogeropoulos, PDG de Médiation & Arguments, et Denis Payre, président de Nature & People First, dans l'émission Les Experts, présentée par Raphaël Legendre sur BFM Business. Retrouvez l'émission du lundi au vendredi et réécoutez la en podcast.

Ce lundi 3 novembre, la position et la stratégie du Rassemblement national lors de l'examen de la première partie du budget et l'adoption d'un impôt sur la fortune improductive ont été abordées par Markus Kerber, avocat et professeur de finances publiques à Berlin, Léonidas Kalogeropoulos, PDG de Médiation & Arguments, et Denis Payre, président de Nature & People First, dans l'émission Les Experts, présentée par Raphaël Legendre sur BFM Business. Retrouvez l'émission du lundi au vendredi et réécoutez la en podcast.

Ce lundi 3 novembre, Raphaël Legendre a reçu Markus Kerber, avocat et professeur de finances publiques à Berlin, Léonidas Kalogeropoulos, PDG de Médiation & Arguments, et Denis Payre, président de Nature & People First, dans l'émission Les Experts sur BFM Business. Retrouvez l'émission du lundi au vendredi et réécoutez la en podcast.

In this episode, Amy Madden, Chief People and Culture Officer, and Suzanne Norman, Vice President of Patient Services at PRO-spectus, share how the company is evolving from a patient first culture to a people first growth strategy. They reflect on PRO's rapid expansion, founder led roots, and the importance of staying scrappy while scaling. Amy and Suzanne discuss how investing in leadership development, performance management, and shared ownership is helping PRO grow by growing its people, and how an intentional, values driven culture remains the foundation of everything they do.Key Takeaways:Culture becomes a catalyst for growth when a patient first mission expands into a people first mindset that empowers performance and purposeIntentional connection sustains culture in a remote world, where engagement, transparency, and care keep teams aligned through rapid growthLeadership development drives scale when managers grow with intention, build consistency, and create environments where others can succeedShared ownership turns accountability into motivation, aligning personal success with the company's mission and collective resultsChapters:00:00 - Introduction06:22 - Culture as a Catalyst for Growth11:46 - Intentional Connection in a Remote World14:02 - Leadership Development That Drives Scale22:54 - Shared Ownership and Accountability30:09 - Preserving Culture Through GrowthListen to our podcasts at:https://www.shorecp.university/podcastsYou'll also find other Microcap Moments episodes, alongside our series Everyday Heroes and Bigger. Stronger. Faster., highlighting the people and stories that make the microcap space unique.Other ways to connect:Blog: https://www.shorecp.university/blogShore Capital University: https://www.shorecp.university/Shore Capital Partners: https://www.shorecp.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shore-universityThis podcast is the property of Shore Capital Partners LLC. None of the content herein is investment advice, an offer of investment advisory services, or a recommendation or offer relating to any security. See the “Terms of Use” page on the Shore Capital website for other important information.

WM serves 20 million customers by executing a unified, purpose-driven strategy. But how does a company of this scale truly guarantee reliable service? This week on The Modern Customer Podcast, Michael Watson, SVP and Chief Customer Officer at WM, explains this strategy. He details the company's unique operational model, which integrates sales, revenue, and customer experience functions under his leadership—a forward-thinking strategy that breaks down the departmental silos common in large enterprises. This powerful alignment allows WM to drive profitable growth while relentlessly championing environmental and customer responsibility, offering a crucial lesson for listeners. Learn how operational rigor and a People-First culture are the ultimate accelerators for profitable growth. Don't miss this one! Tune in now! Visit WM's website to learn more: https://www.wm.com/ Blake Morgan is a customer experience futurist, keynote speaker, and author of three books on customer experience. Her new book is called The 8 Laws of Customer-Focused Leadership: The New Rules for Building A Business Around Today's Customer. Follow Blake Morgan on LinkedIn For regular updates on customer experience, sign up for her weekly newsletter here.

Lori Zukin's path began in a small-town family drugstore, where work and love blurred together behind the counter. Years later, after earning a PhD in industrial and organizational psychology, she found herself coaching leaders at Booz Allen Hamilton and, eventually, guiding the transformation of Baker Tilly's executive team. On Episode 235 of The Unique CPA, Lori shares how a single phone call, received in the shadow of personal loss, sparked a partnership that would reshape a major accounting firm's culture. She reveals the real impact of trust, particularly given the hidden costs of the stories we tend to tell ourselves when we don't have all the information. Randy and Lori trade insights on vulnerability, missed opportunities, and the courage to lead with empathy, and along the way, Lori's passion for mental health and her belief in the intersection of passion and skill shine through, offering a rare glimpse into the heart of modern leadership. Get the full show notes and more resources at TheUniqueCPA.com

Want a culture that actually improves performance instead of living on a poster? We sat down with Heather Haas, CEO at Advisa and Predictive Index Certified Partner, to explore a clear, practical path to compassionate leadership that drives real results. The conversation centers on four levels of connection—job, manager, team, and culture—and how leaders can use each to reduce friction, boost engagement, and help people thrive.Click HERE to visit Advisa's websiteHERE ARE MORE RESOURCES FROM REAL GOOD VENTURES:Never miss a good opportunity to learn from a bad boss...Click HERE to get your very own Reference Profile.  We use The Predictive Index as our analytics platform so you know it's validated and reliable.  Your Reference Profile informs you of your needs, behaviors, and the nuances of what we call your Behavioral DNA.  It also explains your work style, your strengths, and even the common traps in which you may find yourself.  It's a great tool to share with friends, family, and co-workers.Follow us on Instagram HERE and make sure to share with your network!Follow us on Twitter HERE and make sure to share with your network!Provide your feedback HERE, please!  We love to hear from our listeners and welcome your thoughts and ideas about how to improve the podcast and even suggest topics and ideas for future episodes.Visit us at www.realgoodventures.com.  We are a Talent Optimization consultancy specializing in people and business execution analytics.  Real Good Ventures was founded by Sara Best and John Broer who are both Certified Talent Optimization Consultants with over 50 years of combined consulting and organizational performance experience.  Sara is also certified in EQi 2.0.  RGV is also a Certified Partner of Line-of-Sight, a powerful organizational health and execution platform.  RGV is known for its work in leadership development, executive coaching, and what we call organizational rebuild where we bring all our tools together to diagnose an organization's present state and how to grow toward a stronger future state. Send us a text

An early essay by Karl Marx writing at the beginning of the industrial revolution argued that humans who were formerly craftspeople were now just cogs in the industrial machine alienated from the products they made and their work.   Today's podcast is sponsored by Inductive Automation, makers of Ignition — the world's most versatile industrial automation platform for connecting data, systems, and people. With the new Ignition 8.3 release, you can easily manage time-series and event data, quickly create custom graphics with onboard drawing tools, and centralize control using Ignition's new gateway interface with global search and deep link launching. Providing additional support for Git, containers, and private data protection to go along with its unlimited licensing, Ignition 8.3 takes industrial operations to the next level. Download Ignition for free.   The Irish poet/philosopher John O'Donohue discussed in Anam Cara the dignity of work and that work should benefit workers and communities as well as owners and managers.   Lean guru Keven Meyer noted in his book Simple Leader that respect for people is a pillar of Lean. When you hire someone, you are getting more than a pair of hands—you are getting a brain and experience, as well. You should make use of them.   Articles about a worker shortage due to Boomer retirements have been a staple of trade magazine editorial ever since I became an editor in 1998. Some twenty-seven years later, those articles and news releases keep coming.   I learned about a new product from Derek Crager, Founder & CEO of Practical AI for onboarding and mentoring new employees. There is irony here, in that Crager touts himself as developer of an award-winning training program at Amazon—yes, the place that thinks it can replace its workers with robots. But, we will go beyond that thought for now.   His solution? Just-in-time guidance—the right step at the exact moment of need, while hands are on the task. When a technician can ask and do in the same breath, training becomes throughput. That's the difference between teaching a concept and multiplying your best expert across every line and shift.   He called on his experience at Amazon to develop something called Pocket Mentor: A Phone Call to Your Best Expert. This is a hands-free, eyes-free mentor your team reaches by phone, anytime, on the floor or in the field. No app. No Wi-Fi. No passwords. Just tap & say, “Talk me through it” — and we will.   Check out TheManufacturingConnection.com for more thoughts.

[Ad]  Support our show and yourself by supporting our two great sponsors! Go to https://piavpn.com/OTHERSIDE to get 83% off Private Internet Access with 4 months free!   AND D-I-Y Your Patio, Carport, Deck, Pergola and more with SmartKits at smartkits.com.auThis week on  THE OTHER SIDE...   (Ep 431 w/c Fri 24 October 2025) 0:00 Start Segment 1 - MARCHING PEACEFULLY FOR AUSTRALIA The MARCH FOR AUSTRALIA rallies took place last Sunday allowing ordinary Aussies to have their say and push back on the cultural dominance of the left. Here's what REALLY happened - without the media bias. 10:05 Segment 2 -  EXPOSED: MEDIA'S BIAS ON MARCHES  Police slammed the radical left ‘s shocking violence against them as they tried to disrupt March for Australia rallies this week. But most of the media didn't report the most important part of the story: the marches were peaceful and ALL the violence came from the leftists. 23:15 Segment 3 -  BARNABY JUMPS?   One man who knows the tensions within the Coalition, the struggles of leaving, and starting a small party, is former LNP Senator GERARD RENNICK, now the founder of the People First Party. He joins Damian to discuss Barnaby Joyce leaving the Nationals.39:50 Segment 4 -  ABC HOST DEMOLISHED  The ABC's 7.30 host Sarah Ferguson and Former National party leader and Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce clashed following his announcement he was leaving the Coalition. Former LNP Senator turned founder of People First, Gerard Rennick is our special guest. 56:50  Segment 5 -  WHAT REALLY HAPPENED?  A very embarrassing week for former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, but there were MUCH more important matters that came up in the Trump-Albanese meeting you need to know about. Former LNP Senator and now founder of People First, Gerard Rennick, joins Damian to discuss.  Help us build a whole new world of Aussie media! Support us by joining THE EXCLUSIVE SIDE at https://www.othersidetv.com.au/Follow us on X  @OtherSideAUSSubscribe NOW on YouTube @OtherSideAUSSupport us - Support our Sponsors - PIAVPN.com/OtherSide and  smartkits.com.auSupport the showJoin The EXCLUSIVE Side at www.OtherSideTV.com.au and help us revolutionise Aussie media! The Other Side is a regular news/commentary show on YouTube @OtherSideAus and available to watch FREE here: https://www.youtube.com/@OtherSideAus Follow us on X @OtherSideAUS

What does it really mean to lead with purpose?In this episode of Learning Matters, host Doug Wooldridge sits down with Nick Lawrence, Executive Director of People and Culture at Chick-fil-A, to explore how purpose shapes leadership, culture, and learning in today's workplace.Nick shares his perspective on why great leadership starts with understanding your why—and how Chick-fil-A's signature phrase, “my pleasure,” reflects something far deeper than customer service. From cultivating conviction over compliance to balancing technology and humanity in learning programs, Nick offers practical and heartfelt lessons for leaders and L&D professionals alike.

In today's episode, I am shedding light on the fact that our parents are people who are trying to maintain their own lives and be the best parents possible, all at the same time. Also, understanding that our parents were once children who may have endured things that we have no idea about. I believe that seeing our parents through a different set of eyes could help us heal and lighten the load of the remnants of our childhood traumas, which is a crucial step during our personal evolution.LINKS:✨YouTube Channel https://youtube.com/@evolvewithkeiapodcast?si=nmsD5x85wiO_KyBy✨Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lakeia_hardnett?igsh=MWZsYWIzOTQ3aWd4cA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr✨Explore writing on Mediumhttps://medium.com/@lakeiahardnettwrites✨Email evolvewithkeiapodcast@yahoo.comThank you for being here!Love and Light

This episode explores how culture actually grows in schools, not through one big initiative, but through tiny moments that build trust, belonging, and momentum. Host Ashley Carranco talks with celebrated Keynote Speaker and Program Facilitator, Phil Boyte, about practical ways leaders can connect with people first, pace culture work across the year, and design simple rituals that make staff and students feel seen. The focus is on doable moves, relationship builders, and the mindset shift that helps teams sustain energy during the long middle of the year.You will hear the case for starting with willing believers, celebrating small wins, and protecting leader energy through intentional habits. The aim is a campus where people want to be, where community beats isolation, and where culture and values lead the way. If you are ready to elevate connection and consistency, this episode gives you a practical path to try this month.Download, Tiny Moments Starter Pack:https://gl256.infusionsoft.app/app/form/2025conferenceleads Email info@learningforliving.com or visit https://www.learningforliving.com/ for more from Phil!Host: Ashley Carranco, Leader in Me CoachGuest: Phil Boyte, Keynote Speaker and Program FacilitatorTimestamps:(00:00 - 00:19) Culture buy in(00:19 - 01:31) Open(01:31 - 02:26) Student voice(02:26 - 04:11) Preparing kids for life(04:11 - 05:22) Tiny Moment cards(05:22 - 07:28) Relationship builders(07:28 - 09:18) Trust through stories(09:18 - 12:19) What matters most(12:19 - 14:31) The people first model(14:31 - 18:05) Quick wins(18:05 - 22:59) 90 second pause(22:59 - 29:49) Staff designed culture(29:49 - 37:49) Care for leaders(37:49 - 38:54) Outro

This episode explores how culture actually grows in schools, not through one big initiative, but through tiny moments that build trust, belonging, and momentum. Host Ashley Carranco talks with celebrated Keynote Speaker and Program Facilitator, Phil Boyte, about practical ways leaders can connect with people first, pace culture work across the year, and design simple rituals that make staff and students feel seen. The focus is on doable moves, relationship builders, and the mindset shift that helps teams sustain energy during the long middle of the year.You will hear the case for starting with willing believers, celebrating small wins, and protecting leader energy through intentional habits. The aim is a campus where people want to be, where community beats isolation, and where culture and values lead the way. If you are ready to elevate connection and consistency, this episode gives you a practical path to try this month.Download, Tiny Moments Starter Pack:https://gl256.infusionsoft.app/app/form/2025conferenceleads Email info@learningforliving.com or visit https://www.learningforliving.com/ for more from Phil!Host: Ashley Carranco, Leader in Me CoachGuest: Phil Boyte, Keynote Speaker and Program FacilitatorTimestamps:(00:00 - 00:19) Culture buy in(00:19 - 01:31) Open(01:31 - 02:26) Student voice(02:26 - 04:11) Preparing kids for life(04:11 - 05:22) Tiny Moment cards(05:22 - 07:28) Relationship builders(07:28 - 09:18) Trust through stories(09:18 - 12:19) What matters most(12:19 - 14:31) The people first model(14:31 - 18:05) Quick wins(18:05 - 22:59) 90 second pause(22:59 - 29:49) Staff designed culture(29:49 - 37:49) Care for leaders(37:49 - 38:54) Outro

In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Dmitriy Peregudov, founder of Gift Baskets Overseas, shares his inspiring 28-year journey from sending flowers to loved ones in Russia to leading an $11M global gifting company with 120+ team members. He talks about building a business rooted in patience, perseverance, and people-first values. Dmitriy discusses how focusing on customer experience and team culture fueled long-term success. He also explains the role of SEO and AI in modern marketing and why brand trust matters more than ever. From overcoming fraud challenges to achieving a 64% Net Promoter Score, his story highlights sustainable growth and resilience. A must-listen for entrepreneurs who believe slow, steady, and thoughtful growth wins the race. Other Resources: An easy way to measure if your customers love you in 21 minutes – use the Net Promoter Score (NPS). And it's FREE. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Dmitriy Peregudov, the hardest thing in growing a small business is having the patience and perseverance to push through the early, slow stages while learning things outside your comfort zone. He explains that growth often requires focusing on areas you don't enjoy, making tough decisions, and knowing when to let go and replace yourself in certain roles. Understanding every part of the business—even the ones you're not good at—is essential, because only then can you hire the right people and build a strong foundation for long-term success. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Dmitriy Peregudov's favorite business books include Further, Faster by Bill Flynn, which provides clear frameworks for business growth, and Delivering Happiness by Tony Hsieh, which inspired him to build a people-first company culture. He also recommends The Five Types of Wealth by Sahil Bloom for understanding balance in life and business. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Dmitriy recommends the Harvard Business Review (HBR) Podcast for case studies and expert discussions, and Lex Fridman's Podcast for deep, thought-provoking conversations that go beyond business into leadership and innovation. He also appreciates podcasts like Built to Sell Radio for real-world entrepreneurship lessons. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? He highly recommends HubSpot, calling it a game-changer for small businesses. From marketing automation to CRM and workflow management, it helped his team streamline communication, improve sales processes, and enhance customer relationships. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? According to Dmitriy Peregudov, the advice he would give himself on day one of starting out in business is simple yet powerful — “Just do it.” He believes that too many entrepreneurs hesitate, overthink, or wait for the perfect moment, but real growth happens only through action. Taking the first step, learning from mistakes, and adapting along the way are far more valuable than waiting for ideal conditions that may never come. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Success in business comes from patience, perseverance, and focusing on what truly matters — Dmitriy Peregudov Growth isn't always about getting bigger, it's about getting better with every challenge — Dmitriy Peregudov The best way to build a loyal customer is to fix their problem so well they never forget you — Dmitriy Peregudov  

After decades operating six different food brands including Dunkin' and Jersey Mike's, Mitch took a leap that changed everything: salon studios. Why? Because great franchises evolve, and Mitch believes in building businesses where people don't shy away from change. His philosophy? Treat every person, from employees to beauty professionals, with respect and genuine care, and success will follow.In this episode, Mitch gives his insights on:(03:09) Helping beauty pros become independent(09:15) What to check before buying a franchise(11:36) Inside the salon studio business model(14:29) Why trust and stability drive success(17:46) How great franchise support really works(20:25) The collaborative side of franchising(24:59) How philanthropy powers business growth(28:34) Smart ways to give back to your community(32:36) How empowered teams boost performance(34:50) The role of mentorship in career growth(38:07) How to scale with a multi-unit strategy(41:39) The real keys to business expansion(45:51) Rethinking franchise agreements and innovation(48:49) Why simplicity wins in business(50:45) Building strong teams for long-term growthOn Making Franchise Relationships WorkMitch: “Franchising is a relationship. You're entering a contract that's going to be there longer than most marriages last in the U.S. You need to do your due diligence and talk to other franchisees… The conversation starts on day one, and you foster that throughout the whole time.”On Why People Are the Secret IngredientMitch: “No matter what I do, we believe we're in the people business. Our team, our customers, our stylists, if you put people first and treat everyone the way you'd want to be treated, they'll stay forever. There's no reason for them to leave.”On Making Big Business LeapsMitch: “You have to be ready to step out of your comfort zone. Do your research, make sure the new brand has the tools you need, and be prepared for a whole new set of learnings and people. Trust your organization, but know when it's time to cut the cord and build something new.”

What does it take to lead thousands of agents, stay grounded, and build a people-first company? In this Stay Paid interview, Craig Witt, U.S. CEO of EXIT Realty Corp. International, shares his lessons from leading one of the nation's top real estate brands through growth, change, and challenge. Craig reveals how humility, delegation, and purpose-based leadership have shaped his journey from franchise owner to CEO, and why putting people first is the key to scaling sustainably.

In this episode of the Coaches Compass, Mike offers up a recap of the People First Summit. This will help you understand the necessary components of your business. If you need help scaling your business, start your 7-day free trial for The Collective.------------------------------------------------Click here to apply for coaching!For some amazing resources and to be a part of a badass community, join our FB group HEREThe personality assessment is now available online! Click here to take the assessment and find out what your personality tells us about the way you should be training and eating.Take the assessment here!To learn more about Neurotyping, visit www.neurotypetraining.comFollow Mike on IG at @coach_mike_millner

Some companies thrive while others quietly lose their edge.For Tanay Kothari, CEO of Wispr Flow, the difference comes down to one idea: people are your responsibility.In this conversation, Tanay shares how that realization changed everything about the way he leads. From early missteps as a young manager to building a company rooted in empathy and accountability, he shows that the strongest cultures are designed with intention, not left to chance.You'll come away with a practical look at how to build a team that performs at a high level because they feel valued and trusted.Inside the ConversationTanay explains how he built systems that make empathy operational. He spends time understanding each person's strengths, shapes feedback and growth paths around them, and invests in training people managers who can multiply impact. He also shares why he still keeps a founder's eye on product quality, customer connection, and hiring as the company grows.Takeaways• Culture doesn't scale on its own, it must be built with care• Empathy can drive performance without lowering expectations• The three areas Tanay never delegates as a founder• How to recognize when a culture is truly working• What happens when leaders trade control for curiosityTimestamped Highlights00:43 The mission behind Wispr Flow and the future of voice technology01:50 Why treating people as your responsibility changes everything03:39 Building around individual strengths and learning styles06:23 The importance of developing great managers10:35 Small but powerful signals of a thriving culture12:41 The lesson that reshaped Tanay's approach to leadership15:50 Turning frustration into growth and creating top performers19:30 Interviewing for passion, not just technical skill21:58 The three things a founder should never hand offA line that says it allCulture isn't a vibe, it's a decision you make every single day.Call to ActionGreat companies are built by leaders who care as much as they execute. Follow The Tech Trek for conversations that help you grow as both.

Send us a textCaleb David shares his unique journey from nonprofit humanitarian work to commercial real estate, revealing how his people-first approach has shaped his success despite market challenges. His background in international aid work provides a refreshing perspective on property transactions, emphasizing relationship-building, authenticity, and community service over quick profits.• Half East Indian, half American background with significant childhood time in India• Led nonprofit Table Initiative taking people overseas to understand social issues firsthand• Made nearly 30 trips to Ethiopia working with anti-trafficking organizations• Transitioned to commercial real estate after nonprofit burnout about 11 years ago• Focuses on education and setting small businesses up for long-term success• Starts with understanding client goals before working backward to find solutions• Emphasizes the importance of broker-client moral alignment and ethical practices• Advocates for supporting minority businesses, particularly in the Hispanic community• Currently building a team at Keller Williams Commercial in Colorado Springs• Values authenticity as his guiding principle in business and personal lifeFollow Caleb on Instagram and Facebook @CalebDavid or visit davidcommercial.com. Check out his podcast "Commercial Real Estate Unfiltered" on all major platforms. Support the showThanks again for listening. Don't forget to subscribe, share, and leave a FIVE-STAR review.Head to Dwanderful right now to claim your free real estate investing kit. And follow:http://www.Dwanderful.comhttp://www.facebook.com/Dwanderfulhttp://www.Instagram.com/Dwanderful http://www.youtube.com/DwanderfulRealEstateInvestingChannelMake it a Dwanderful Day!

Welcome to Behind the Win, where we go deeper into how visionary leaders are shaping their industries and communities. Today we're joined by Jessica Dixon, the people-centered leader behind LSI's evolving HR strategy. Jessica has helped transform hiring, culture, and internal development during one of the most complex times in the workforce. In this conversation she shares how to hire with intention, lead with empathy, and build with culture that truly lasts.

Today's conversation is such a special one, and honestly, a huge honor. I had the chance to sit down with two incredible leaders from a company you've probably heard of (and maybe even ordered from): ButcherBox.In this episode, you'll hear directly from Mike Salguero, founder and CEO, and Eliza Jackson, Chief People Officer, about how they've woven the Enneagram into the DNA of their 200-person organization. From onboarding to manager development, the Enneagram isn't just a one-time workshop at ButcherBox; it's part of their shared language and leadership culture.We talk about:How Mike first discovered the Enneagram and why it resonated with him as a leader.The practical ways ButcherBox is integrating the framework into hiring, feedback, and team communication.What's surprised them most about using the Enneagram company-wide.The connection between self-awareness, organizational trust, and scalable culture.If you've ever wondered what it looks like when an entire company uses the Enneagram to build connection, accountability, and clarity at scale, this conversation is a must-listen.Tune in to learn how the Enneagram is shaping leadership and culture at one of the most mission-driven consumer brands out there.Learn more about ButcherBox and take advantage of their Fall sale ending 10/13: https://www.butcherbox.com/Have a request for a future episode? Drop a text here!

The People First Podcast is back for Season 4! In this first episode, we explore one of Africa's most pressing challenges with Andrew Dabalen, Chief Economist for the World Bank Africa region. Andrew and his team have just released the Africa's Pulse report, "Pathways to Job Creation in Africa."This conversation highlights job trends across the continent and examines opportunities to create sustainable employment for Africa's growing working-age population.Tune in to discover the realities behind Africa's labor market and learn how infrastructure, access to finance, and market integration are shaping the continent's future.The People First podcast is available online, on Spotify, and on Apple Podcast. For more updates, follow us by subscribing, and don't forget to rate and comment on this episode.Sequences00:00 Introduction01:12 Insights from Andrew Dabalen, Chief Economist for the World Bank Africa region02:16 Understanding the problem04:16 Financing and growth 11:28 Three priorities to transform Africa's job landscape12:26 ConclusionAbout People First PodcastPeople First Podcast provides a human angle to concrete development topics as they affect people in Western and Central Africa. It also features World Bank project and initiatives. Join us for a sustainable and inclusive development!About World Bank GroupThe World Bank Group is one of the world's largest sources of funding and knowledge for low-income countries. Its five institutions share a commitment to reducing poverty, increasing shared prosperity, and promoting sustainable development.

In This Episode Many leaders focus on growing their businesses through sales, systems, and strategy — but often overlook their most important resource: people. In this episode of the System Simplified podcast, Adi Klevit interviews Velveth Schmitz, CEO of HireBetter, to discuss how intentional talent planning and strong systems work hand-in-hand to build thriving organizations. Velveth shares how HireBetter partners with clients to align their people strategy with business goals — not just filling roles, but building cohesive, values-driven teams. She explains why onboarding should never be an afterthought and how having clear, documented processes helps new hires integrate seamlessly and stay engaged. The conversation also dives into the evolving relationship between people and technology. As an early adopter of AI, Velveth believes automation should amplify human creativity — freeing teams to focus on higher-value, people-centric work. She and Adi explore how leaders can embrace AI without losing sight of culture, communication, and community.  

In this episode of Molecule to Market, you'll go inside the outsourcing space of the global drug development sector with Lars Petersen, President & Chief Executive Officer at FUJIFILM Biotechnologies.   Your host, Raman Sehgal, discusses the pharmaceutical and biotechnology supply chain with Lars, covering: The difficult decision to leave Novo Nordisk and make the jump from one great company to another in Genentech/Roche. How leaving a Biogen site led him to step away from big pharma after 25 years and transition to the CDMO side. How Fujifilm's culture of innovation, technology, quality, and people runs through the Biotechnologies division — and why empowerment and culture should never be compromised. Why the duplication of its CDMO sites globally, all running on the same kojoX platform, is truly differentiating. Why he believes the need to standardise, scale, and globalise drug production in a consistent, efficient, and traceable way is key to the future of the supply chain. Molecule to Market is also sponsored by Bora Pharma (boracdmo.com) and Charles River (www.criver.com), and supported by Lead Candidate.    Lars Petersen, CEO of FUJIFILM Biotechnologies, is recognized as a visionary leader in the life science sector, commanding a global contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) with nearly 5,000 employees spread across Denmark, UK, USA, and Japan.    Distinguished for his strategic vision and a "people first" philosophy, Lars has profoundly impacted the company and the industry. His leadership journey saw him rise from Chief Operational Officer & Senior Vice President at the Danish site, where he established an empowering culture, to CEO, promoting transparency across all operations. Since his global leadership appointment in June 2023, Lars has been instrumental in cultural transformation, integrating a "people first" approach across FUJIFILM Biotechnologies' global facilities regardless of geographical differences.   Prior to his appointment as CEO, Lars was responsible for the Global Large Scale Commercial operation including full profit and loss accountability as well as the responsibility for over $6.2 Billion global expansions both in Hillerød, Denmark, and Holly Springs, North Carolina, USA.   Previously, Lars has held leadership positions with Biogen, Genentech/Roche, Novo Nordisk, Novozymes and NNE, and he has successfully executed projects in Europe, China and the US.   Lars holds a master's degree from the Technical University of Denmark.   Please subscribe, tell your industry colleagues and join us in celebrating and promoting the value and importance of the global life science outsourcing space. We'd also appreciate a positive rating! 

Ce vendredi 3 octobre, la situation politique, qui reste compliquée, et l'utilisation du 49.3 ont été abordées par Denis Payre, président de Nature & People First, Jean-Marc Vittori, éditorialiste aux Échos, et Jean-Pierre Petit, président des Cahiers Verts de l'économie, dans l'émission Les Experts, présentée par Raphaël Legendre sur BFM Business. Retrouvez l'émission du lundi au vendredi et réécoutez la en podcast.

Ce vendredi 3 octobre, le franchissement de la barre des 8 000 points par l'indice CAC 40, le prix de l'or, les principes du shutdown américain et son impact sur l'emploi et l'économie, ont été abordés par Denis Payre, président de Nature & People First, Jean-Marc Vittori, éditorialiste aux Échos, et Jean-Pierre Petit, président des Cahiers Verts de l'économie, dans l'émission Les Experts, présentée par Raphaël Legendre sur BFM Business. Retrouvez l'émission du lundi au vendredi et réécoutez la en podcast.

Ce vendredi 3 octobre, Raphaël Legendre a reçu Denis Payre, président de Nature & People First, Jean-Marc Vittori, éditorialiste aux Échos, et Jean-Pierre Petit, président des Cahiers Verts de l'économie, dans l'émission Les Experts sur BFM Business. Retrouvez l'émission du lundi au vendredi et réécoutez la en podcast.

In our milestone 100th episode of the AdTechGod Podcast, we're diving into three big themes: the future of ad tech, the power of giving back, and where agencies are headed next. Segment 1  kicks off with industry legends Ari Paparo and Terence Kawaja. They break down how AI, automation, and consolidation are reshaping digital advertising—and what the booming creator economy means for authenticity and growth. Segment 2 takes a different turn, with Tom Deierlein, Heidi Browning, and Peter Naylor sharing the incredible story behind the TD Foundation. It's a nonprofit supporting families of wounded warriors and fallen heroes, proving how small donations and industry support can drive real impact. Segment 3 looks ahead to the agency world. Lauren Wetzel (Infosum/WPP) and Sam Bloom (PMG) talk about everything from navigating walled gardens and evolving business models to building people-first cultures in an AI-driven era. To my listeners, sponsors, and friends: thank you. Hitting 100 episodes is a huge milestone for me, and I couldn't have done it without your support. Segment 1 – The Future of Ad Tech 00:00 – Celebrating 100 Episodes of AdTechGod Podcast 01:48 – The Impact of AI on Ad Tech 05:22 – Consolidation in the Ad Tech Industry 08:59 – Challenges for Publishers in the AI Era 12:17 – The Future of Live Advertising 15:25 – Opportunities in the Creator Economy 18:59 – Navigating Authenticity in Content Creation Segment 2 – Giving Back: The TD Foundation 22:21 – Celebrating Milestones and Giving Back 23:53 – The Birth of the TD Foundation 28:22 – Personal Stories and Impact 31:49 – Real-Life Case Studies 36:01 – Challenges and Call to Action 39:05 – Corporate Involvement and Community Support Segment 3 – The Future of Agencies 42:21 – The Future of Agencies 45:40 – Navigating Walled Gardens & Data Challenges 49:55 – Evolving Business Models in Advertising 56:44 – Building a People-Centric Agency Culture 62:21 – Celebrating 100 Episodes & Looking Ahead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What would change in your business if you built it to support people; not just profits?In this episode, Dean Mathews joins Bill to share how solving one simple, overlooked problem turned into a business serving over 200,000 users a month. As the founder of OnTheClock, Dean opens up about the early scrappy days, how he learned to build a team-first company from the ground up, and why fast learning was his biggest edge. He also reflects on how his leadership style has evolved, the myth of work-life balance, and what it really means to stay committed when both your business and your family need youTopics explored in this episode:(04:30) Find a Solution Everybody Wants*Dean noticed that there was a common problem, and he knew he could figure out how to solve it. *His business has grown to 200,000 subscribers a month. *A strong team has been the foundation to his sustained success. (9:00) Create a People-First Company*Dean wanted a company that was built to last.*Building a strong team is Dean's primary job and focus now. *Dean really wanted to create a place where talent can prosper. (15:15) Learn Quick and Wear Multiple Hats*How did Dean find his first clients? *Word of mouth is the best form of marketing*Dean credits the company's success and growth to his ability to learn quickly, implement fast, and immediately shift focus to the next challenge.(31:35) How has Dean's Leadership Style Changed? *Dean doesn't understand what work-life-balance is. *When you're driven, it's a challenge to allocate ‘outside work time'. *Dean has become very intentional to not break his commitments and promises in both work and family life. Thanks to Dean Mathews for being on the show!Learn more about Dean here: https://www.ontheclock.com/Connect with Dean: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dean-mathews-yes/Bill Gallagher, Scaling Coach and host of the Scaling Up Business podcast, is an international business coach who works with C-Suite leaders to achieve breakthrough growth. Join Bill in the Growth Navigator Coaching Program: https://ScalingCoach.com/workshop Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.LinkedIn.com/in/BillGallBill on YouTube: https://www.YouTube.com/@BillGallagherScalingCoach Visit https://ScalingUp.com to learn more about Verne Harnish, our team of Scaling Up Coaches, and the Scaling Up Performance Platform, which includes coaching, learning, software, and summit. We share how the fastest-growing companies succeed where so many others fail. We help leadership teams with the biggest decisions around people, strategy, execution, and cash so that they can scale up successfully and beat the odds of business growth. Did you enjoy today's episode? If so, then please leave a review! Help other business leaders discover Scaling Up Business with Bill Gallagher so they, too, can benefit from the ideas shared in these podcasts.Subscribe via Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3PGhWPJSubscribe via Apple...

What if the biggest weakness in cybersecurity isn't a missing tool, but a cultural blind spot? That's the perspective of Dan Jones, Senior Security Advisor at Tanium, who joined me on Tech Talks Daily to share why he believes cybersecurity is fundamentally a people problem dressed up as a technology problem. Dan brings nearly three decades of experience in cyber operations, including leading cyber defence strategy for the UK Ministry of Defence. His career has shown him that technology alone doesn't secure organisations—it's the people at the front line, their leadership, and their ability to make the right decisions under pressure. He argues that while new tools flood the market every year, the make-or-break factor remains the same: how teams are led, supported, and empowered. In our conversation, Dan explains why leadership is often the overlooked part of cybersecurity, how culture shapes security outcomes, and why automation should be embraced not as a threat to jobs but as a way to give people time back for higher-value decision making. He shares examples from both military and enterprise contexts, showing how organisations succeed or fail based not on what tools they buy, but on how well they bring their people along for the journey. We also dig into one of today's hottest debates: the role of AI in cybersecurity. While many fear AI will displace jobs, Dan insists those fears are rooted in culture, not reality. He draws parallels to past industrial shifts, making the case that automation and orchestration are stepping stones that prepare teams for an AI-powered future—one where human judgment still sits firmly at the centre. This is a timely reminder for every leader and practitioner that cybersecurity is about more than firewalls and code. It's about trust, training, and people working together with the right tools at the right time. And yes, it's also about taking five minutes to brew a proper cup of tea—a lesson Dan believes says a lot about leadership and reflection. If you've ever wondered whether your organisation is focusing too much on tools and not enough on culture, this episode will make you stop and think. ********* Visit the Sponsor of Tech Talks Network: Land your first job  in tech in 6 months as a Software QA Engineering Bootcamp with Careerist https://crst.co/OGCLA

What if your AI tools were more like teammates than tech? AI isn't coming for your job, it's coming to take the busywork off your plate. Jason and Nikki crack open how the PeopleForward Network team is weaving AI into their daily workflows without ditching what makes them... them. F rom using ChatGPT for parenting convos to building sales proposals, onboarding guides, and culture content, they're showing how AI can augment your team, not replace it. Expect lightbulb moments and a roadmap for using AI to go further faster while keeping your values and people at the center

Welcome to Sales & Cigars—where the only smoke we blow is from cigars. This week, Walter sits down with Michael Cole, founder of Next Level Technician, for a conversation all about helping people—the true heartbeat of sales, business, and leadership. What started as a way to connect a few underserved young people with skilled trade jobs turned into a national staffing and training company with real community impact. From hospitality to sales to entrepreneurship, Michael's journey is rooted in one belief: if you help enough people, you'll get what you need. This episode unpacks what it really means to add value, lead with integrity, and grow something meaningful—even when you're sweating payroll or navigating tough setbacks. In This Episode: Why helping people is the foundation of lasting success Michael's unexpected leap from sales to staffing founder The moment he realized he had something important to build How green tech training is addressing the skilled labor shortage Real talk: surviving client bankruptcy, making payroll, and staying the course Lessons in management: challenge your team and watch leaders emerge The power of consistent effort—and just showing up Critical Ideas: Always be looking for ways to add value—as a salesperson or entrepreneur If you haven't sweated payroll, you haven't truly run a business Give your team room to grow—and your managers will become leaders Serving others first opens up new doors for everyone involved     Connect with Michael Cole and Next Level Technician: Website: https://www.nextleveltechnician.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-level-technician/ Connect with Walter Crosby and Sales & Cigars: Website: Helix Sales Development LinkedIn: Walter Crosby Instagram: @wcrosby248 Facebook: Helix Sales Development     Share Your Thoughts: We'd love to hear your feedback and experiences! Drop us a line and join the conversation on social media using #SalesAndCigars. Never Miss an Episode! Join the Sales & Cigars community by subscribing to our podcast and YouTube channel: Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple Podcasts: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Spotify: Follow on Spotify ...and wherever you listen to podcasts! Subscribe to Us on YouTube: Stay updated with our latest video content by subscribing to our YouTube channel. Hit the bell icon for notifications on new uploads! YouTube: Sales & Cigars Channel Stay in the loop: By subscribing, you'll get instant access to new episodes, insightful conversations, and bonus content designed to elevate your sales skills and more. Keep savoring those cigars and stay sharp in sales! Until next time, keep listening to Sales & Cigars—the podcast where the only smoke we blow is from cigars.

Join us for a PRessing On in Public Relations conversation with Jennifer Kaplan, Founder of Evolve PR & Marketing, Arizona's largest PR firm. Since launching the agency in 2010, she has led Evolve's growth from a small, client-focused team into a powerhouse of 27 full-time publicists serving more than 100 clients across local and national markets. A proud Phoenix native and Arizona State University alumna, Jennifer's deep Valley roots and relationship-driven approach have helped her build lasting partnerships and elevate brands across industries. Her leadership and impact have earned her numerous honors, including the Inaugural Hugh Downs School of Human Communication Alumni of the Year Award, Phoenix Business Journal's 40 Under 40, AZ Business Magazine's Most Influential Women in Arizona Business, Ranking Arizona #1 PR Agency, AZ Big Media's Most Admired Companies and PR News' 2025 Top Women in PR and People of the Year. Outside the office, Jennifer enjoys time with her family, giving back to the community, and finding balance on her yoga mat. She's always cheering on the Sun Devils—forks up!  Tune in for real stories, practical advice, and a dose of PR inspiration. Like, share, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! ----------------------------------------------------------------- To track down Jennifer visit: https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolveprandmarketing https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-kaplan-b331948/ https://evolveprandmarketing.com/  https://www.facebook.com/EvolvePRandMarketing/ https://www.instagram.com/evolveprandmarketing/   For more information on the PRessing On podcast visit ⁠⁠⁠PressingOnPodcast.com⁠ RMGComm.com DeGravePR.com

In this episode of the Grow Think Tank podcast, I sit down with Brittany Latson, Managing Partner, Account and Operations at HashtagHealth, to talk about what it really means to be Leading with Integrity. HashtagHealth No.3,091 on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list. Brittany shares how integrity guides her leadership style and shapes a people-first culture—one that prioritizes collaboration, supports working parents, and builds strong, ethical client relationships in the pharmaceutical sector. She explains how her unique blend of ‘tough love' and genuine guidance empowers her team's growth while keeping values at the forefront. We also discuss HashtagHealth's recent acquisition and how compassionate leadership and a strong culture are helping expand their mission to improve healthcare communication. This conversation is a powerful example of how Leading with Integrity drives both business success and meaningful impact.