On today’s episode we are talking about how executive loneliness might be killing your company.Nick Jonsson's remarkable journey embodies resilience, redemption, and holistic well-being. Recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice and an elite Ironman athlete, Nick's influence transcends accolades. As co-founder of Executives' Global Network (EGN) Singapore, Malaysia & Indonesia, he supports over 900 executives, drawing from personal struggles with executive loneliness and mental health challenges. Nick's seminal book, "Executive Loneliness," and his podcast, "EGN Leadership Conversations," reflect his commitment to empowering others. From despair, Nick emerged as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the transformative power of vulnerability and determination. Today, he inspires audiences worldwide with his story of triumph and possibility.Episode Highlights:Recognize the importance of safe spaces: Executive loneliness is a significant issue, especially when individuals feel they have no safe spaces to discuss their challenges internally within their company. Finding external safe spaces through coaches, mentors, or peer groups can be crucial.Proactivity is key: Rather than waiting for internal solutions that may not exist, individuals should take ownership of their situation and actively seek out external support networks. Waiting too long can lead to increased anxiety and even depression.Embrace vulnerability: Leaders should practice vulnerability and empathy, creating a culture where it's safe to share challenges. By being open about personal experiences and struggles, leaders can foster stronger connections within their teams and break down barriers that contribute to isolation.Resilience and perseverance: Building resilience is essential for both individuals and organizations. Leaders should demonstrate resilience through their actions, showing that they can navigate challenges effectively and bounce back from setbacks.Reflect on purpose and hobbies: Encouraging individuals to reflect on their purpose in life and revisit past hobbies can help them find fulfillment outside of work. Engaging in activities that bring joy and connection can contribute to overall well-being and combat feelings of loneliness.Seek help when needed: If feelings of hopelessness, burnout, or depression become overwhelming, it's crucial to seek help and support. There are numerous resources available, including support groups, hotlines, therapy, and counseling, to assist individuals in navigating difficult times and fostering personal growth.Top 3 Takeaways for the Audience:Treat vulnerability like a muscle and actively practice it in your safe spaces. Share your challenges and experiences with trusted individuals to foster connection and growth.Take the initiative to find both professional and personal safe spaces where you can freely discuss work-related and personal matters with like-minded individuals. This can include peer groups, mentors, coaches, or support networks.Use journaling as a tool for reflection and problem-solving. Write down your thoughts and feelings, both positive and painful, and take action by reaching out for help or discussing them with someone you trust. Regularly review your journal to address any unresolved issues and ensure peace of mind before bedtime.How to Connect with Nick:Website: https://www.nickjonsson.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-jonsson

On today’s episode we are talking about how not focusing on great teams might be killing your company. James Scouller, an executive coach, thought leader, and author, has dedicated 45 years to leadership. His four books reflect his profound focus on the psychological challenges confronting leaders and teams. The Three Levels of Leadership, his debut, revolutionized leadership literature with groundbreaking models and tools. Despite minimal promotion, it garnered global acclaim, inspiring countless CEOs. His latest trilogy, How To Build Winning Teams Again And Again, released in January 2024, serves as a companion to his first work. With a rich background in international leadership and coaching, Scouller continues to empower leaders and teams, embodying expertise in psychology and martial arts.Episode Highlights:Commitment is Key: Teams need to address the psychological aspect of commitment before diving into trust and psychological safety. Without a shared commitment to the team's goals, dynamics can quickly unravel.Balanced Team Composition: Building effective teams requires more than just assembling individuals based on job titles or regional expertise. Teams must ensure they have a diverse mix of behavioral roles to cover problem-solving, planning, conflict resolution, and other essential functions.Clarity in Decision-Making: Successful teams establish clear processes for decision-making to avoid ambiguity and ensure alignment. Whether through discussion-based consensus or democratic voting, defining decision-making mechanisms helps teams stay focused and accountable to their goals.Conflict is Necessary for Growth: While conflict within teams is often seen as negative, it's essential for healthy team dynamics. Task conflict, where ideas are debated constructively, is a sign of a good team. However, many teams struggle with conflict avoidance, which can lead to passive aggression and hinder creativity.Understanding Individual Dynamics: Teams are comprised of individuals with unique motivations, fears, and life experiences. Effective leaders need to understand what makes each team member tick and foster an environment where individuals feel valued and understood. This personal connection is crucial for building strong teams.Seven Action Principles for Team Success: James shared seven action principles for achieving team success. These principles provide a roadmap for addressing key psychological issues within teams and improving overall effectiveness.Top 3 Takeaways for the Audience:Whether you're struggling with team building or simply want to improve, it's important to recognize that the art of building and regenerating teams is learnable. With effort and practice, anyone can develop the skills necessary to build effective teams.While improving team dynamics requires dedication and practice, the effort invested in developing these skills will ultimately pay off. Not only will you enjoy your work more, but your teammates will also benefit, and your company will see better results because of improved team dynamics.To support your journey in mastering team building, there are resources available, such as books and tools, that can provide guidance and insights. By leveraging these resources, you can gain valuable knowledge and techniques to enhance your team leadership abilities.For More Information Related to This Episode:https://leadershipmasterysuite.com/cc/

On today’s episode we are talking about how your handling of customer service might be killing your company.  Ali Cudby, Founder and CEO of Alignmint Growth Strategies, drives business transformation through intentional customer experiences. With over 20 years of expertise, she aligns strategy and implementation for unparalleled growth. As the bestselling author of "Keep Your Customers," Ali offers insights from real-world stories and CEO-led case studies. Her MINT Method, outlined in the book, fosters transformational customer loyalty. Previously at The New York Times Company, Golf Digest Magazine Group, and Animal Planet TV Network, Ali founded Alignmint in 2014. She also teaches Entrepreneurship at Purdue University and shares her expertise on podcasts, emphasizing the integral role of customer experience in business success.Episode Highlights:Customer Strategy Alignment: Aligning customer-facing departments with the customer strategy ensures consistent messaging and a unified approach across the organization. Building a Customer Playbook: Creating a playbook involves identifying key moments in the customer lifecycle and assigning clear roles to each team involved. Diagnosing Breakdowns in Customer Experience: High churn rates often signal breakdowns in the customer experience. Overcoming Sales and Onboarding Challenges: Sales teams overpromising, inadequate onboarding processes, and product challenges can all lead to customer dissatisfaction. Effective Feedback Mechanisms: Prioritizing customer feedback and organizing it meaningfully can help organizations identify areas for improvement and enhance customer satisfaction. Cultivating Customer Loyalty: Understanding different tiers of customer loyalty and tailoring strategies to upgrade customers to more lucrative tiers can drive long-term growth. Top 3 Takeaways for the Audience:Prioritize understanding and meeting customer needs, ensuring they feel seen, heard, and valued to drive growth.Implement clear and consistent processes within the company to guide customer-facing teams in handling interactions confidently, fostering stronger relationships and sustained growth.Shift the perspective on customer-facing teams from a cost center to a revenue driver, emphasizing their role in retention, cross-selling, and upselling to fuel long-term revenue growth.How to Connect with Ali:Website: https://alignmintforgrowth.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alicudby/

On today’s episode we are talking about how imposter syndrome can hurt teams and and threaten your company.Tiffany Houser is a passionate advocate for personal transformation and leadership development. With a focus on coaching senior leaders and high-achieving founders, she empowers them to experience profound breakthroughs in their authentic leadership style, vision, and purpose.  Through her coaching, she helps leaders cultivate self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and a growth mindset, enabling them to define their vision, overcome obstacles, and foster a culture of contribution and resilience. As the founder of EVOLVE, Tiffany and her team provide transformative experiences and coaching services to organizations seeking to embrace change and cultivate self-worth. Episode Highlights:Imposter syndrome manifests in two main ways. Common imposter feelings involve doubting oneself and feeling inadequate, while toxic imposter feelings involve projecting those feelings onto others, resulting in behaviors like micromanaging or aggression. Leaders experiencing imposter syndrome, especially when new to an organization, may struggle to enroll their team in new ideas or strategies, leading to resistance to change and breakdowns in communication. Toxic imposter feelings in leaders can lead to negative behaviors that harm team dynamics and creativity.Poor internal communication within organizations can exacerbate imposter syndrome by creating uncertainty and mistrust among employees. Leaders need to foster an environment of open communication and transparency to mitigate the negative effects of imposter syndrome on their teams.It is important to identify and acknowledge when you're experiencing challenges or issues, particularly related to insecurity and self-doubt. Many leaders may suppress these feelings, which prevents them from addressing and overcoming them effectively. Indecisiveness and a lack of trust in oneself are highlighted as significant consequences of feeling like an imposter. This can manifest in reluctance to make decisions or seek validation from others excessively, ultimately leading to a loss of confidence and effectiveness in leadership roles.Addressing Behavioral Patterns: Certain unhealthy behavioral patterns, such as perfectionism, overworking, busyness, comparison, and people-pleasing can hinder personal growth and contribute to a toxic work environment if left unaddressed. Instead, it's crucial to foster a culture of communication, curiosity, and understanding to create a supportive and productive work environment.Top 3 Takeaways for the Audience:Understand that feelings of insecurity and impostor syndrome are common and not inherently negative. Recognize and accept these feelings can be the first step towards growth and self-improvement.Everyone, regardless of their position or status, experiences moments of self-doubt and insecurity. Knowing that even successful individuals face these challenges can provide reassurance and perspective.Encouraging a mindset of curiosity and openness to possibilities can lead to more effective leadership and problem-solving. Instead of judgment or blame, approaching situations with curiosity allows for exploration and growth. How to Connect with Tiffany:Website: https://evolveeq.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyhouser

Loreta Tarozaite is an experienced strategist and advocate for brand and executive presence, unlocking visibility, authority, and impact for companies and leaders. With a background spanning broadcast journalism, founding her own company, and collaborating with Fortune 500 corporations, Loreta is a strategic partner in navigating the complex world of authoritative presence. She excels in strategic marketing architecture, elevating presence, on-camera coaching, and embracing tech innovations. Loreta's unique approach, the Real Relating Lens™, distills complexity, fosters authenticity, and drives transformative change. Thriving in chaos, Loreta sees it as an opportunity for lasting transformation and impact through improved presence.Episode Highlights:Importance of Communication: Executive presence is crucial because leaders are the face of the company and need to communicate clearly and effectively to represent the organization well.Authenticity Matters: Being authentic and true to oneself is key to building executive presence. Leaders should express their values, motivations, and drive in their communication to connect with others genuinely.Tailoring Approach to Individual Strengths: Executive presence isn't one-size-fits-all. It involves identifying each leader's strengths, whether it's storytelling, humor, or other communication styles, and leveraging those strengths effectively.Understanding Perception: Leaders should actively seek feedback to understand how they are perceived by others. This feedback helps identify areas for improvement in communication and leadership style.Balancing Professionalism and Relatability: While the level of formality in executive presence may vary based on organizational culture and individual preferences, leaders should aim to strike a balance between professionalism and relatability. This includes considerations such as attire, communication style, and demeanor.Social Media Strategy: Approach social media with caution, understanding the permanence of posts and the importance of authenticity, seeking professional support when necessary, especially during crises.Top 3 Takeaways for the AudienceStart Small, Experiment, and Learn. Begin by taking small steps outside of your comfort zone, such as writing a LinkedIn post, to gain experience and confidence.Overcome Self-Doubt and Fear of Judgment. Recognize and overcome the fear of judgment or sounding inadequate, understanding that growth requires vulnerability and risk-taking.Seek Feedback and Continuous Improvement. Embrace feedback and self-awareness, acknowledging flaws and actively seeking opportunities for improvement to enhance leadership presence and authority.How to Connect with Loreta:Website: https://www.loretatv.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/loretatarozaite/

On today’s episode we are talking about how using AI in marketing might be killing your company. Ferdinand Mehlinger, an esteemed SEO expert and keynote speaker, played a pivotal role in Google's inception, granting him unparalleled insights into driving organic traffic and conversions. With a diverse portfolio spanning E-waste, biotech, fitness, and social media sectors, Ferdinand's expertise is unmatched. With over two decades of experience, including contributing to Google's algorithm in its infancy, Ferdinand offers unparalleled expertise in SEO and Google insider strategies. He's available as a keynote speaker for events, conferences, and podcasts, offering valuable insights and free resources on his website. Ferdinand's company, Bluoo Digital, specializes in branding and online marketing solutions, driving success for businesses since 2005.Episode Highlights:AI Revolution: AI is poised to revolutionize our lives, offering unprecedented convenience and accessibility to information, similar to the impact of search engines.Potential of AI: AI has the potential to enhance productivity across various domains, from writing and coding to email management, streamlining tasks and providing valuable assistance.Ethical Considerations: Despite its benefits, ethical concerns surround AI's use, especially regarding misinformation, manipulation, and privacy.Regulation and Oversight: The rapid advancement of AI necessitates regulation and oversight to ensure responsible and ethical use, preventing misuse and abuse.Impact on SEO: AI influences SEO practices, with search engines like Google emphasizing quality and relevance to combat spammy content generated by AI.Realistic Content Focus: Businesses should prioritize quality over quantity in content production, acknowledging limitations and aiming for manageable output.Peer-to-Peer Interaction: User preference for human interaction over AI-generated content drives a shift towards peer-to-peer question-and-answer interactions online.Top 3 Takeaways for the Audience:Jump into AI without hesitation, as it's becoming increasingly essential for businesses to leverage its capabilities.Recognize and understand your own value, whether as a business owner or professional, and assert it confidently.Focus on becoming an expert in your field, as expertise opens doors and allows you to provide valuable insights and solutions to others.How to Connect with Ferdinand:  www.ferdinandmehlinger.com

On today’s episode we are talking about how not maintaining high quality teams might be killing your company. Randy Clark, currently Director of Global Operations at IBN (InvestorBrandNetwork), is an executive and strategic thinker with over 20 years of experience in building and managing high-functioning teams and organizations. His expertise spans from creating entities from scratch to revitalizing existing ones, consistently achieving remarkable success. Embracing change and prioritizing alignment over agreement, Randy fosters diverse, empowered teams, believing in uplifting every individual he encounters. With a mantra of supporting people to their fullest potential and infusing fun into every endeavor, Randy finds profound fulfillment in watching teams flourish and triumph together. Eager for the next challenge, he looks forward to continuing his journey of growth and success.Episode Highlights:Team Building from the Ground Up: The speaker emphasizes the importance of personally building teams from scratch to ensure they are founded on a proven record of success. However, they acknowledge that circumstances may sometimes require adapting to existing teams.The Significance of Hiring: Hiring the right people is paramount for team success. The speaker underscores the importance of assessing individuals' capabilities, desires, and skills to ensure they align with the team's goals and culture.Focus on Team Dynamics: Team dynamics are crucial for success, and the speaker highlights the importance of aligning everyone towards the same goal while fostering healthy agreement on how to achieve it.Motivation, Focus, and Advocacy: The speaker outlines three key factors for keeping teams cohesive: motivation, focus, and advocacy. Understanding individual motivations, defining clear focuses, and being an advocate for team members are essential for achieving collective success.Fit and Adaptation: Recognizing when someone is not the right fit for a role and being willing to have difficult conversations or make adjustments is crucial for both individual and team success. The speaker emphasizes the importance of finding roles that align with employees' strengths and aspirations.Recognizing and Addressing Misalignment: It's crucial to identify when individuals are struggling to meet personal goals within a role, as this can have a detrimental impact on both them and the team. Encouraging individuals to pursue roles that align with their strengths and passions is essential for fostering personal fulfillment and driving team success.Dealing with Toxic Team Members: Toxic team members can significantly diminish team morale and productivity. Taking action, even if it means making tough decisions like removing individuals who don't align with the team's goals and culture, is essential for the overall betterment of the team and the company.Randy’sTop 3 Takeaways for the Audience:1.     Having the right individuals in appropriate roles, highlighting attitude, aptitude, and work ethic are key criteria for success. 2.     Bring passion and enjoyment to work. Encourage fostering a fun and engaging work environment to inspire team members to be passionate and committed to their roles.3.     Lead by example. Managers should lead with care, dedication, energy. By demonstrating commitment and enthusiasm for the job you will set a positive tone for the team and foster mutual respect and success.How to Connect with Randy:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-clark-a30717/Website: https://www.investorbrandnetwork.com/

On today’s episode we are talking about how not to be scooped up unwillingly in an acquisition with Jason Radisson.Jason Radisson is a seasoned unicorn breeder with 20+ years of expertise in strategy, operations, and growth. As the CEO and Founder of Movo, an HCM platform, he's revolutionizing frontline workforce management globally, boasting 700,000+ users across various industries. Formerly with McKinsey & Company and Uber, Jason's track record includes scaling businesses, notably 99-Taxis, which he grew 10x before its $1B acquisition. Passionate about empowering the frontline workforce, he champions digital solutions to uplift communities. Jason, a Holy Cross alum and multilingual Fulbright Scholar, balances his professional achievements with family and outdoor pursuits, embodying a holistic approach to success.Episode Highlights:Importance of Differentiation: Industries consolidate where there's economies of scale. Having a unique differentiator that the market values is crucial for success. Role of Capital Markets: The movement of capital plays a significant role in determining winners, especially in later funding rounds where large sums of money are involved. Convincing capital markets of your company's potential is key.Diagnosing Corporate Health: Assessing threats to the organization involves analyzing both strategy and execution. Poor execution can undermine even a solid strategy.Avoiding Irrelevance: Staying relevant amidst industry consolidation requires a focus on differentiation and addressing unmet needs in the market.Building a Following: Building a loyal following can be achieved through various means, including product innovation, marketing, and targeting underserved markets. Operational Efficiency: Maintaining capital efficiency and operational leanness is crucial for sustainable growth, especially in the face of competition and potential acquisitions.Jason’s Top Takeaways for the Audience:  Find your unique differentiator.Capital efficiency and frugality contributes significantly to overall sustainability. Even if other aspects like differentiation or strategy are not fully developed, being lean and frugal ensures longevity and reduces vulnerability to hostile takeovers or industry consolidation efforts.Maintaining a global perspective fosters invaluable cross-industry insights, allowing for the adaptation of successful practices from international corporations to local contexts.How to Connect with Jason:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-radisson/

On today’s episode we are talking about how your negotiation skills could make or break your company with Adele Gambardella and Chip Massey. Adele Gambardella and Chip Massey are two accomplished professionals with diverse backgrounds and a shared mission. Adele, recognized as a prominent figure in the PR world, brings over 20 years of expertise, serving as a spokesperson for Fortune 100 companies and teaching at prestigious universities. Chip, a former FBI Special Agent, offers a wealth of experience in high-stakes criminal cases and negotiation techniques. Together, as co-founders of The Convincing Company, they bridge the worlds of PR and Crisis Negotiation, providing global consulting and training services to a wide range of clients, from tech startups to Fortune 500 giants. Episode Highlights: Forensic Listening: Utilize forensic listening techniques to uncover the unstated narratives and true beliefs of others. By understanding what people truly think and value, you can tailor your approach to effectively communicate and persuade.The Convincing Continuum: Move individuals down the convincing continuum by starting with points of agreement, addressing fears and uncertainties, and providing just enough information to prompt further research and validation. Avoid overwhelming them with excessive facts and arguments.Active Listening and Empathy: Practice active listening to de-escalate heightened emotions and understand the underlying concerns of others. Demonstrating empathy and valuing their opinions can build trust and facilitate productive dialogue.Personalized Approach: Tailor your communication style and approach based on individual personalities and preferences. Recognize that different people may respond differently to persuasion tactics and adjust your strategy accordingly to achieve the desired outcome.Focus on Collaboration: Emphasize collaboration and mutual benefit in negotiations and decision-making processes. Highlight how working together can lead to positive outcomes for all parties involved, fostering a sense of cooperation and alignment.Timing is Key: Being aware of the timing and context of our interactions, including when someone is mentally prepared and receptive, can significantly impact the effectiveness of our communication.Top Takeaways for the Audience:1.     Remember who you’re trying to convince. Are they emotional? Are they more of a fact-based person?2.     Listen intently so the person you are talking to feels you are connected to them and truly understand who they are. 3.     Try new things. Don’t get stuck in what you’ve always done as there are great opportunities in trying something new. 4.     Nobody will care what you have to say or what you believe until they feel you care about them. Then, you can cross chasms with the person because they feel you have their back. For Resources Related to this Episode Visit:https://convincingcompany.com/corporate/

On today’s episode we are talking about how your lack of consciousness may be killing your company.Tom Willis believes we are all born with unlimited potential. As a former classroom teacher, he also believes in the power of lifelong learning. These beliefs have shaped his primary goal in life: helping others move beyond their self-limiting beliefs so they can reach their true potential.  Prior to co-founding Phoenix Partners, he had the great honor of serving as the CEO for Cornerstone, a school system in Detroit.  He was fortunate to earn an engineering degree from the University of Michigan and an MBA from the University of Notre Dame.  Episode Highlights:Clarity of Purpose: Helping individuals and teams get clear about their fundamental purpose in life and how it aligns with the purpose of the organization is crucial for fostering meaningful engagement and alignment.Focus on Impact: It's essential to shift the focus from simply creating cool technology or products to understanding the real impact and societal benefits of the work being done, such as providing access to transportation services for those in need.Motivation through Contribution: Human beings are universally motivated by making a difference and being helpful. Understanding and connecting with employees' personal motivations and values can drive engagement and commitment to shared goals.Leadership, Management, Coaching: Effective leadership involves a balance of leadership, management, and coaching. Each aspect plays a role in creating a culture of growth and accountability, with leadership and coaching being emphasized more than traditional management.Conscious Time Management: Being conscious about how time is spent, prioritizing activities that contribute to personal and team growth, and focusing less on mundane tasks or "chores" can lead to significant improvements in organizational effectiveness and results.Feedback Loops: Establish regular feedback mechanisms to gather input on the current culture and identify areas for improvement from employees at all levels.Training and Development: Invest in training programs that support the development of key cultural competencies, demonstrating a commitment to fostering a positive work environment.Tom’s Top 3 Takeaways for the Audience:If you are a CEO or Superintendent, check out our group called The Interchange made up of leaders from across the country who get together about once a month.Read our book The Great Engagement. Whether you’re a CEO of a large team or CEO of your life this book can help.    Start asking people around you to help you become more conscious. Ask them questions like “how can I improve as a teammate, a father, a friend? etc. For Additional Resources Related to This Episode Visit:https://www.phoenixperform.com/corporatecpr

On today’s episode we are talking about how not adopting the latest trends in workforce flexibility might be killing your company.  Jones Loflin, an educator turned internationally recognized speaker and author, is known for his impactful books like "Always Growing" and "Juggling Elephants," available in the US and 14+ countries. His work, including "Getting The Blue Ribbon" and "Getting to It," offers practical strategies for personal and professional growth. Founder of Jones U, he provides online courses and coaching for self-paced learning. Previously the "Trainer of Trainers" for "Who Moved My Cheese?" Jones holds degrees from North Carolina State University and is a member of the National Speaker’s Association.  Episode Highlights: ·       Shift from Work-Life Balance to Work-Life Success: There has been a shift from the concept of work-life balance to work-life success. That balance implies a static state, whereas success entails being present in the moment and investing time where it is needed most. ·       Accountability and Communication: Accountability is crucial in ensuring that work gets done efficiently, especially in environments with flexible policies like unlimited leave. Regular check-ins and effective listening by leaders foster a supportive and productive work culture. ·       Adapting Leadership Styles: Leaders must adapt their management approach based on whether team members are working in-person or remotely. Effective leaders prioritize consistent communication, active listening, and understanding the needs of their team members. ·       Flexibility in Work Arrangements: The trend towards flexible work arrangements, including remote work options, continues to grow. Successful organizations prioritize autonomy for their teams while also establishing clear guidelines and expectations for productivity and collaboration. ·       Business Case for In-Office Time: Organizations should establish a clear business case for requiring employees to be in the office certain days of the week. By identifying specific times when in-person collaboration is necessary, companies can justify their policies and gain employee buy-in. ·       Data-Driven Approach to Change: When considering changes to work policies, such as remote work options or leave policies, it's essential to gather data through employee engagement surveys or assessments. Knee-jerk reactions can lead to unintended consequences, so it's crucial to make informed decisions based on feedback from employees. ·       Leadership Role in Addressing Burnout: By creating psychologically safe environments where employees feel comfortable discussing their challenges, leaders can help prevent burnout. Additionally, leading by example, demonstrating vulnerability, and acknowledging personal work preferences can foster understanding and support within the team.Jones’ Top 3 Takeaways for the Audience:People go about getting work done differently. As much as possible, we need to respect that individual cadence instead of trying to put everyone into a box.Organizations must make the business case for whatever flexible work policies they are going to put in place. People should be consistently intentional about what they need from work so when they are done with work, we are doing the things we really want to be doing.  How to Connect with Jones:Website: https://jonesloflin.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonesloflin/

On today’s episode we are talking about how taking care of your employees' emotions during an M&A process can be a lifesaver your company.  Jonathan Bennett, C.Dir., is a highly sought-after leadership coach and strategic advisor, offering his expertise to CEOs, executive teams, politicians, and boards of directors throughout Canada. With a background spanning urban, rural, remote, and First Nations communities, Jonathan excels in social purpose business strategy, governance, branding, change management, and communications. Before venturing into coaching, he founded Laridae, a management consulting and training firm that has served over 200 clients. As Laridae's inaugural CEO, he transformed the startup into a leading B Corp. Jonathan, also a Special Graduate Faculty at Trent University, contributes his extensive experience as a director to boards like Accerta and CashCo financial. Additionally, Jonathan has held leadership roles in notable organizations, including Chair of the Board of Directors of Ontario Telemedicine Network and the Kawartha Haliburton CAS. An accomplished writer, Jonathan has authored seven books and resides with his family on a lake near Peterborough, Ontario, Canada. Episode Highlights:·   Anticipate Employee Reactions: Leaders implementing major organizational changes, like mergers, should anticipate varied employee reactions, from excitement to fear. Understanding and addressing these emotions is crucial for successful change management.·   Effective Communication is Key: Clear communication is essential. Leaders must not only communicate what will change but also emphasize what will remain unchanged. Using diverse communication channels accommodates different learning styles and calms employee concerns.·   Ongoing Dialogue for Support: Change is a process that requires time. Leaders should initiate ongoing dialogues to address employee questions and concerns, emphasizing that the initial announcement is just the beginning of continuous information sharing and support.·   Acknowledge Emotional Impact: Leaders often underestimate the emotional impact of changes on employees who were not part of the decision-making process. Acknowledging and understanding this impact is vital for fostering a positive organizational culture during transitions.·   Active Leadership Engagement: Senior leaders must actively participate in decision-making during significant changes. Avoiding abdication of decision-making responsibilities ensures alignment of vision and fosters an environment conducive to successful change.Jonathan’s Top 3 Takeaways for the Audience:1. You can’t communicate too often. Decide to overcommunicate and schedule it. 2. Change is hard. Give people the time they need. 3. Be self-aware about how you’ve dealt with change. You aren’t doing it right or wrong and the folks around you aren’t doing it right or wrong. You’re just doing it your way. Give yourself and others grace and space. How to Connect with Jonathan: Website: https://clearlythen.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bennettjonathan/

On today’s episode we are talking about how success might be killing your company. Alex Atwood, a purpose-driven entrepreneur, has built a career marked by success in founding and leading four impactful companies. Over two decades, Alex has served over 8,000 satisfied customers in staffing, hospitality, and facilities management. Beyond entrepreneurship, Alex is an angel investor supporting ventures for a better world and a philanthropist, particularly dedicated to family businesses. Engaging in personal growth, Alex participates in Landmark Worldwide coaching and adheres to Nonviolent Communication principles. A diverse range of interests includes meditation, self-exploration modalities, drumming, and a newfound passion for skateboarding. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Alex's latest venture focuses on providing non-toxic disinfection services, promoting regulatory compliance, and reemploying displaced hospitality workers in the D.C. and Baltimore metro area.Episode Highlights: ·  Warning Against Complacency: Complacency can lead to stagnation and negatively impact both individual and organizational progress. It can cause a "mortality event" for companies and even entire industries. Examples, such as the transformation of the taxi industry with the rise of ride-sharing, emphasize the need for continuous adaptation.·  Transformational Mindset: A transformative mindset involves being continuously curious about possibilities and embracing evolution. It is  important to think outside the current framework, fostering creativity, and maintaining an open thought process.·  Empowering Culture: Transformative leadership involves empowering employees by creating a culture where curiosity, creativity, and diverse ideas are encouraged. This type of leadership is critical to establishing an authentic, empowering culture within an organization.·  Strategic Innovation and Continuous Transformation: Companies need to prioritize strategic innovation and continuously transform, not just in products or services but also in the way they manage their organizations. The key lies in staying ahead of the curve, being receptive to change, and having a genuine commitment to transformation.·   Psychedelic Therapeutics and Business Transformation: Business leaders increasingly turn to psychedelic experiences, such as ayahuasca retreats, to break through self-limiting behaviors and enhance their effectiveness, reflecting a broader trend of exploring unconventional practices for personal and professional growth.·  Integration of Psychedelic Experiences: The psychedelic journey involves intentional preparation, group interactions, and post-experience discussions, emphasizing the importance of integrating insights gained into daily life for sustained personal growth.·  Transformation in Business Analogous to Personal Growth: Examining companies like McDonald's underscores the imperative for businesses to continuously transform and adapt in messaging, branding, and offerings to remain relevant in a dynamic and evolving market.Alex’s Top 3 Takeaways for the Audience:1.     Be curious in everything you do.2.     Empower others. 3.     Have fun. Be more creative and enjoy the work you do because it doesn’t need to be a grind. If you’re not having fun, you’re probably doing it wrong. How to Connect with Alex:Website: https://alexatwood.co/          LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexatwood/

On today’s episode we are talking about how to help your employees become more resilient. Michele Phillips is a seasoned corporate trainer and transformational personal coach. As President of Key Performance and award-winning author of 'Happiness is a Habit,' Michele has shaped a fulfilling 23-year entrepreneurial career. Her impact extends globally, guiding Fortune 500 companies like TAG Heuer and Pfizer. Michele excels in one-on-one coaching, seamlessly integrating neuroscience, habit formation, and positive psychology to elevate happiness and performance. With a Master’s in Organizational Development from Fordham University, Michele's expertise is honed by certifications and mentorship. A sought-after writer and speaker, her book ranked among Amazon's top self-help books in 2017.Episode Highlights: ·  Empowerment and Recognizing Inner Power: The speaker underscores the importance of empowering individuals to recognize and utilize their inner power, asserting that everyone possesses more power than they realize.·  Three-Pronged Approach in Corporate Training: The speaker employs a three-pronged approach in corporate training, including training workshops, individual coaching, and result evaluation to ensure employees make a positive impact.·  Continuous Improvement in Project Management: Emphasizing the dynamic nature of project management, the content stresses the importance of continuous improvement, adaptability, and regular reflection, encouraging a commitment to learning from both successes and failures.·  Results-Focused Agile Leadership: The speaker advocates for a results-focused approach in leadership, emphasizing regular assessment of project phases, adoption of agile methodologies, and investment in professional development for project teams.·  Resilient Leadership and Preparedness: Leaders who value development and provide ongoing support, including training, coaching, and resources, contribute to building resilience in teams. Additionally, preparing employees for economic uncertainty involves keeping skills updated and fostering an adaptable mindset.Michele’s Top 3 Takeaways for the Audience:1.     Ask yourself, if you want your business to grow 30%, what are you doing to grow your people 30%?2.     As a leader, make sure you have the propensity to develop other people.3.     Invest in training and coaching. How to Connect with Michele: Website: www.key2unlock.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/michele-phillips-9409707/

On today’s episode we are talking about how playing it safe might be killing your company. John Miller is the Founder of Scribewise, a dynamic content marketing agency dedicated to aiding B2B firms and healthcare providers in achieving growth through thought leadership and demand generation. His team of writers, designers, and strategists excels in humanizing complex business conversations by crafting and disseminating compelling, audience-focused content. With a firm belief in courageous marketing, John advocates for breaking free from the mundane and injecting excitement into the business world. His passion extends to his book, a manifesto at PlayingItSafeSucks.com, aimed at inspiring marketers and companies to adopt a bold and impactful mindset.Episode Highlights:Courageous Marketing Manifesto: The book, "Playing It Safe Sucks, A Courageous Marketing Manifesto," challenges the prevailing mindset of playing it safe, emphasizing the importance of making companies stand out, build credibility, and trust. Assessing Risk and Timing: Delving into the concept of risk in marketing, the discussion highlights the importance of assessing the right time for bold marketing moves and the need for internal champions to push innovative ideas.B2B Marketing Focus: The conversation underscores the distinctive aspects of B2B marketing, emphasizing the longer consideration cycle and the need to build trust at scale rather than merely focusing on website traffic or SEO.Effective Communication within Organizations: Addressing the challenges of communicating courageous marketing ideas within organizations, the emphasis is on starting small with experiments, proving concepts, and gradually expanding initiatives. Internal champions and alignment with company culture are vital.Navigating Uncertain Times: The discussion challenges the "Playing It Safe" mentality during uncertain times, urging marketers not to give in to the temptation of playing small. It encourages finding ways to bring innovative ideas to market, even in the face of internal politics and red tape.John’s Top 3 Takeaways for the Audience:1.     Be courageous in your marketing.2.     For B2B companies, let go of your obsession with website traffic and SEO.3.     Don’t follow trends or follow the masses. Focus on figuring out your message and audience instead. How to Connect with John: Website: https://scribewise.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnmillerscribewise/

On today’s episode we are talking about how lack of alignment within your organization might be stunting your growth. Jim Stevenson, Founder and CEO of Bletchley Group, an International Growth Consultants firm, specializes in Strategy, Transformation, and Growth. Committed to making growth the focus of strategy, he excels in creating customer-centric plans, go-to-market strategies, and aligning capabilities for revenue growth. As the visionary behind Tech Startup Machine, Jim collaborates with global brands and startups, providing digital services, from e-commerce to brand protection. Noteworthy clients include Guardian News, Bacardi, and Hilton Hotels. A Thought Leader and Speaker on Digital Strategies, Marketing, and Business, Jim's specialties encompass Strategy, Transformation, and Growth. His versatile roles include Interim/Fractional Chair, CEO, Leader, Consultant, or Coach.Episode Highlights:Cultural Foundation: A strong, shared culture is foundational for a growing company's success. Maintaining this culture becomes challenging as organizations expand, but it is crucial to prevent the formation of silos that hinder overall alignment and productivity.Vision and Leadership Alignment: Continuous emphasis on the North Star or overarching vision is vital for a growing organization. Lack of alignment at the leadership level, including the board, CEO, and C-suite, can lead to divergent objectives and hinder overall progress.OKRs for Strategic Alignment: Implementing Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) is a powerful strategy for aligning teams with overarching company goals. Focusing on challenging OKRs, cascaded from the top down, ensures a balance between aspiration and achievability.Testing and Learning: Embracing a mindset of continuous testing and learning is crucial, especially for smaller entrepreneurial companies. Setting a clear time horizon for metrics and accepting the possibility of mistakes are key to the learning process.Start Small for Big Impact: Initiating change through smaller, impactful projects can have a significant effect when steering a large organization. Proving success on a small scale generates enthusiasm and paves the way for broader and more significant transformations.Jim’s Top 3 Takeaways for the Audience:1.     Culture is a big thing.2.     Alignment at all levels of the organization is critical.3.     Focus on executive sponsorship. How to Connect with Jim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimstevenson/

On today’s episode we are talking about why you might be killing innovation within your organization. Robyn Bolton, Founder of MileZero, collaborates with medium to large businesses, guiding them through uncertainty to drive revenue growth. With a focus on innovation, she transforms deep customer insights into viable businesses, having worked with notable companies such as Medtronic and Teachers Pay Teachers. Formerly a Partner at Innosight, she served Global 1000 firms, including Nike and Nestle, shaping new markets and business models. Robyn, an MBA graduate from Harvard Business School, began her career at Procter & Gamble, leading the North American launch of Swiffer. A respected thought leader, her articles on innovation appear in major publications, and she frequently speaks on topics like Intrapreneurship and Design Thinking. Episode Highlights:Strategic Innovation for Growth: Innovation is pivotal for organizational growth, addressing the "growth gap" and maintaining competitiveness in dynamic markets.Adapting to Rapid Change: Established companies face the challenge of adapting to accelerated technological change, necessitating quicker innovation cycles for sustained relevance.Clear Definition Drives Alignment: A shared and clear definition of innovation is essential to align diverse perceptions within organizations, ensuring cohesive efforts.Diversified Portfolio Approach: Success in innovation requires a balanced portfolio encompassing incremental, adjacent, and transformative approaches, each demanding specific structures for optimal execution.Leadership's Dual Mandate: Leaders play a pivotal role in maintaining operational efficiency while fostering the adaptability essential for driving and sustaining innovation initiatives.Robyn’s Top 3 Takeaways for the Audience: 1.       Leaders, the tension you feel between operating and innovating is real. You goal now is to figure out how to live with that tension and both operate and innovate in the best way for your organization. 2.     Innovation isn’t an event. It can start with one, but make sure you have a plan for how to keep the momentum going.3.     Get really good at incremental innovation and set up a separate team and structure to focus on adjacent innovation. How to Connect with Robyn:Website: https://www.milezero.ioLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robynmbolton/

On today’s episode we are talking about how communication might be killing your organization.Pam Hurley, PhD, is the founder and president of Hurley Write, Inc., a certified women-owned small business. Pam’s teaching style has been described as “energetic” and “straightforward.” Indeed, many clients credit Pam with giving them the strategies they needed to start thinking critically about their own writing. Episode Highlights:Impact of Effective Writing: Effective writing plays a critical role in shaping an organization's reputation, customer relationships, and financial success. Poor writing can lead to confusion, questions, and damage to the company's image.Undervaluation of Writing Skills: Many organizations undervalue the importance of writing skills, expressing a need for quality documents while neglecting to invest in the development of their employees' writing proficiency. There is an assumption that a college education ensures adequate writing skills.Time and Cost Consequences: Poor writing has not only communication quality implications but also significant time and cost repercussions due to repeated document iterations and reviews. This is especially noticeable when employees, such as project managers, are burdened with excessive reviewing responsibilities that detract from their primary roles.Equal Rigor for Internal Communication: Internal communication, encompassing emails and other documents, deserves the same level of scrutiny as client-facing communication. Miscommunication internally can lead to problems, impacting relationships and rapport within the organization.Audience-Centric Writing: Deep understanding of the audience is crucial in effective writing. Knowing the attributes, relationships, and context of the reader aids in tailoring the tone, voice, and content appropriately. This prevents misunderstandings and enhances the overall effectiveness of communication, both internally and externally.Pam’s Top 3 Takeaways for the Audience:1. Think of the organization in terms of the communication. Is there an organizational problem? Do you have a communication standard in place?2. Writing should be part of your overall strategic plan for the company. 3. Always think about the planning of your documents. How to Connect with Pam:Website: https://www.hurleywrite.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hurleywrite/

On today's episode, we are talking about making finance-driven decisions.Paul Barnhurst, known as The FP&A Guy, is a seasoned Finance Professional with over 12 years of experience in finance and Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A). He holds a bachelor's degree from BYU, an MBA specializing in finance, and a Master of Information Management from Arizona State University. Paul's diverse career spans various industries, including government, travel services, finance, automotive, Cyber Security, and Ecommerce. His expertise lies in budgeting, forecasting, financial planning, modeling, report building, and business partnership. Paul recently launched The FP&A Guy, offering FP&A consulting for small and mid-sized companies, FP&A training, and content creation. Based in Salt Lake City, Utah, he's an active thought leader on LinkedIn in the FP&A field. Episode Highlights:Financial Modeling for Informed Decisions: Financial modeling is a critical tool for making informed decisions. It involves creating dynamic models with inputs and outputs to estimate the financial implications of various scenarios, such as business expansion. Good financial modeling helps in projecting likely outcomes.Aligning Strategy with Finance: Financial modeling in the corporate context plays a key role in aligning strategic plans with financial considerations. It engages different departments in the budgeting and forecasting process, ensuring that business decisions are financially sound and in line with the company's overall strategy.M&A as an Art and Science: Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) strategies should combine both financial analysis and a deep understanding of market dynamics. Successful M&A deals require discipline to avoid overpaying or making unrealistic assumptions. It's both an art and a science.Building Robust M&A Models: In M&A, success hinges on having a robust financial model, conducting effective due diligence, understanding the strategic fit between companies, and structuring deals intelligently. Consideration of market conditions and future exit strategies is essential.Key Considerations for Informed M&A: When considering M&A, focus on key factors such as financial aspects, the technology state of the target company, cultural fit, legal risks, and understanding industry growth or decline. These considerations are fundamental for making well-informed decisions during mergers and acquisitions. Paul's Top 3 Takeaways for the Audience:1.     Modeling is only one decision-making tool. It should be used to help guide your decisions, not dictate them. 2.     Most M&As do not result in a return to the buyer so make sure you bring discipline to your process and try to remove emotion.3.     Make sure you’re asking your Finance for help.  Finance can bring a lot of value, especially if they are willing to learn & partner with the business.  How to Connect with Paul:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy/   Email: Pbarnhurst@thefpandaguy.comWebsite: www.thefpandaguy.com

On today’s episode we are talking about whether you’re telling the right story about your brand.Kitty Hart boasts 25 years in branding and marketing. As VP of Client Brand Experience at Heroic Productions, she leads a team of professionals in designing and producing events that convey brand stories, values, and vision. Kitty firmly believes that every brand-customer interaction, be it at corporate events, retail spaces, conference rooms, or websites, is a chance to inspire and engage. She leverages experiential marketing and design thinking to address complex business challenges, providing innovative solutions.Episode Highlights:·       Importance of Designing Every Interaction: Effective companies recognize the significance of designing every moment of interaction with their audience, as it directly impacts the perception of their brand.·       Control and Consistency: To maintain a positive brand perception, companies need to control and be consistent in how their brand shows up in various instances, ensuring there is no misunderstanding about their brand.·       Integration of Design Thinking: Successful companies have integrated design thinking into their business strategies, which is crucial for creating memorable brand experiences.·       Listening and Adapting: Monitoring social media and conducting surveys can help companies gauge how well their brand is perceived. If people aren't talking about the brand or are expressing negative sentiments, it may indicate the need for improvements.·       Crafting a Clear Brand Story: Companies should craft a clear and compelling brand story, understanding their "why." It's essential to involve a cross-section of the organization to create and maintain a consistent brand message.·       Shift in Perspective: To make your brand stand out, shift your focus from products and services to the results and impact on customers. Challenge the status quo and emphasize why you do what you do.·       Design and Visuals Matter: High-quality visuals, staging, and technology are crucial for creating engaging and enjoyable corporate events. A well-designed environment enhances the learning experience.·       Balancing Content and Engagement: Achieving a balance between informative content and enjoyable elements like entertainment and networking is essential for successful events. Keep attendees engaged and looking forward to future events.Kitty’s Top 3 Takeaways for the Audience:1.     Be consistent with your brand no matter what size company you are. 2.     Think about the delivery of your product or service. Observe how the delivery is designed from beginning to end (words, visuals, behaviors, etc.)3.     Every single brand can use experiential marketing effectively. Look outside of your industry to see what brands are doing, take note of what you find interesting, and see how you can apply it to your business. How to Connect with Kitty:LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kittyhart/Email: khart@heroic-productions.comWebsite: www.heroic-productions.com