Episodes
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This week on the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole interviews Jonathan Zur. Jonathan is President & CEO of the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities (VCIC), an organization that works with schools, business, and communities to achieve success through inclusion. An experienced facilitator and consultant on issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion, Jonathan was appointed by the Governor of Virginia to the Commonwealth Commission on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, formed in the aftermath of the tragedy in Charlottesville in August 2017. In 2016, he was a speaker at the inaugural White House Summit on Diversity and Inclusion in Government. Jonathan is a graduate of the University of Richmond, and he received a Certificate in Nonprofit Executive Leadership from the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University.
In this episode, Jonathan talks about:
[00:10:19] How diversity is the presence of difference, and how that's not enough
[00:16:09] What equity is, and what it isn't
[00:27:52] Three P's to drive diversity, equity and inclusion: Pathways, Programs, Policies
I am grateful to Jonathan for sharing his wealth of knowledge and passion for inclusion in business. His insights on DEI are sure to inspire HR professionals and leaders of kinds to BUILD A Vibrant Culture.
Want to know more about Jonathan?
Jonathan's website: https://inclusiveva.org/
LinkedIn (Jonathan): https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanzur/
LinkedIn (VCIC): www.linkedin.com/company/virginia-center-for-inclusive-communities/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inclusiveVA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inclusive_va/
Other books mentioned on this episode:
One Minute Manager by Ken Blanchard: https://a.co/d/8LW51ai
Positive Intelligence by Shirzad Chamine: https://a.co/d/iGSsIWc
Other videos mentioned on this episode:
The Abilene Paradox: https://youtu.be/CRubzHg-Ju8?si=DmcKQQx1jid4sMOO
The Quest for a Rainbow Bagel with Zach Anner: https://youtu.be/LhpUJRGrZgc?si=xp142FW-rtCeKDjh
Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to the Build a Vibrant Culture podcast for more insights on creating thriving workplaces!
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This week on the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole interviews Robert and Kay Lee Fukui, bestselling co-authors of Tandem: The Married Entrepreneur's Guide for Greater Work - Life Balance. Robert and Kay Lee Fukui have used their shared passions and business expertise to help entrepreneurs and 'couplepreneurs' strengthen and grow since they officially merged as husband and wife on March 13, 2006.
As the founders of Power Couples by Design™, they realize it is impossible not to bring home what happens at the office, and vice versa. After winning awards for helping corporations create long-term profitability and sustainability in their businesses, they have woven together corporate best practices with the heart of family businesses.
In Tandem, they share the exact process they have taught thousands of married entrepreneurs to harmonize work and home. Robert and Kay Lee live in Pasadena, California, with their furchild, Pippa.
You can learn more about them, their courses, coaching, and events at https://marriedentrepreneur.co/
Three Takeaways from our conversation with Robert and Kay Lee:
[00:04:04] Prioritize Marriage to Achieve Work-Life Balance
Robert and Kay Lee discuss the importance of prioritizing marriage over financial success. They emphasize that when marriage takes precedence, financial stability can follow. Tools like intentional calendaring, where personal and family time are scheduled first, help balance the two worlds.[00:11:27] Leverage Individual Strengths in Business and Marriage
Understanding personality differences using tools like the DiSC profile fosters effective collaboration. Robert shared how assigning tasks based on strengths (e.g., avoiding forcing roles like QuickBooks on Kay Lee) can reduce conflict and improve efficiency, highlighting the value of outsourcing when necessary.[00:27:32] Focus on Profit Margins, Not Just Revenue
The couple stressed the importance of focusing on profit margins instead of just increasing revenue. They shared examples of how small changes—like adjusting pricing or improving cost efficiency—can significantly boost profitability while maintaining a manageable workload.Robert and Kay Lee's Book: https://a.co/d/ilPctay
Get the first chapter FREE here: https://www.thetandembook.com/free-chapter-optin-page
Thriving in Tandem podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thriving-in-tandem-the-podcast-for-ma…
Visit Robert and Kay Lee on Social Media:
LinkedIn
Robert: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertfukui/
Kay Lee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefukui/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/thrivingintandem
Intstagram https://www.instagram.com/thrivingintandem/
Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to the Build a Vibrant Culture podcast for more insights on creating thriving workplaces!
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Missing episodes?
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This week on the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole interviews Paul Morton. Paul is a seasoned CEO, leadership expert, and the visionary behind the Practical Leadership Academy. Paul knows that many managers find themselves in leadership roles by accident—promoted for their technical skills without ever being shown how to manage effectively. His work centers on the practical steps managers can take to do the things they know they should be doing but were never taught. Through his Academy and his Practical Leadership Podcast, Paul distills decades of experience into actionable strategies that help leaders build strong, cohesive teams. His guiding principle is servant leadership—making others successful is the true mark of a great leader. Paul’s passion for transforming leadership and ensuring every manager can lead with confidence and clarity. Listen in and find out how to take the five steps necessary to transform your one to one's with your team members.
3 Key Take-Aways
04:32 Servant Leadership and Empathy in Management: Morton highlights that great leaders focus on enabling others to succeed. Effective leadership requires putting others first, listening actively, and creating a supportive environment. Leaders should view their roles as facilitators, guiding their team members to achieve goals and reach their full potential.07:43 Importance of Structured One-on-Ones: Paul Morton emphasizes the value of regular one-on-one meetings between leaders and their team members. These sessions provide a structured way to communicate goals, offer feedback, and support employee development. 13:39 Five Steps for Effective One-on-One Meetings: Paul's five-step framework (Check-in, Update, Feedback, Coaching, and Planning) guides managers in making these sessions impactful.
Paul’s Book (FREE Download!): https://practical-leadership.academy/resources/Visit Paul on Social Media:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulwmorton/
Listen to Paul's Practical Leadership Podcast
https://practical-leadership.podbean.com/Visit Paul's Website:
https://practical-leadership.academy/Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to the Build a Vibrant Culture podcast for more insights on creating thriving workplaces!
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This week on the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole interviews Curtis Bateman. He is the bestselling co-author of Change: How to Turn Uncertainty Into Opportunity and is vice president of direct international offices for FranklinCovey. With over 24 years of experience in the training industry, Curtis is an internationally recognized presenter, content developer, change consultant, business leader, and coach.
His passion for enabling organizations “at change” resulted in the co-creation of transformative, industry-leading solutions, including Change Element, Leaders@Change, Managing Millennials, Millennials@Work, and the Change Practitioner.
Formerly the president and CEO at Red Tree Leadership, Curtis managed the world-class brand Who Moved My Cheese? and created a practical approach to help individuals and leaders succeed with an ever-complex world of change in the workplace. Curtis joined FranklinCovey as a senior change consultant and co-practice leader. In 2016, Curtis became managing director of the U.K. and Ireland, in 2018 was asked to assume additional management responsibilities of Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, and in 2019 took on additional responsibility for China, Japan, and Australia.
Curtis shares while every change is unique, there is a predictable pattern to change. Understand that pattern, and you can turn change into opportunity!
He states, "Change is inevitable. When unexpected or unwanted change disrupts well-established routines, personally and professionally, it’s natural to wonder, “Who rocked the boat?” Unfortunately, that is exactly the wrong question to ask!"
Listen in and find out why! Curtis built a Change Model that demystifies the uncertainty of change and creates the opportunity to realize greater results, personal growth, and even innovation.
Additionally, Curtis shares a simple but profound business parable that invites leaders to reflect on their own change journey and discover how their “crew” falls into a set of predictable patterns and reactions.
Take Away
Concrete examples and step-by-step instructions on how to engage teams through the change processHow the Change Model makes change actionable and predictableHow to minimize the disruption of changeWhere most change initiatives fail and how to adaptCurtis’ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Change-Turn-Uncertainty-Into-Opportunity/dp/1642507946
Visit Curtis on Social Media:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/franklincovey/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FranklinCovey/
Intstagram: https://www.instagram.com/franklincovey/
Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to the Build a Vibrant Culture podcast for more insights on creating thriving workplaces!
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This week on the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole interviews Mark Budzinski. Mark is a management executive who advises business leaders how to get the most out of their investment in analytics. With an acute interest in organizational behavior, his book is published on Amazon under the title “Peer-to-Peer Culture.”
In this episode we explore concepts from Mark's book. Mark shares his hard won culture philosophy and shares authentically his business philosophy.
Mark believes in business, perhaps the only thing more difficult than founding a startup company is growing the enterprise to the next level.
He answers the question, Why do so many who try fall short?
Because leaders of businesses too often are distracted by the rigors of day-to-day operations and seduced by big-company thinking. CEOs of emerging firms should not rush to implement the practices, processes, and policies popular at larger organizations. Instead, they should focus on employee behavior and a culture anchored in trust and teamwork.
In Peer-to-Peer Culture and in this episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast Mark and I outline how to:
- Inject trust into the lifeblood of a company
- Maximize team performance, using pay plans as an enabler
- Acquire new customers with empathy
- Confront conflict with honesty
- Encourage unambiguous communication and better decision-making
If you are an executive or human resource leader in a growing organization, this book will challenge your assumptions about business and invite you to install a company culture in which staff, customers, and investors thrive.
Mark’s Book: https://www.amazon.com/Peer-Peer-Culture-Takes-Businesses/dp/B08CM5T986
Visit Mark on Social Media:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-budzinski-b9ba36/
Facebook: https://cleandatainc.com/
Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to the Build a Vibrant Culture podcast for more insights on creating thriving workplaces!
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This week on the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole interviews Mary Miller, author of Changing Direction: Ten Choices that Impact Your Dreams. Mary Miller has empowered ten million individuals to pursue their dreams. With over 20 years as an Entrepreneurial Coach at Strategic Coach Inc., she equips business owners with tools for success. Mary's journey includes transforming JANCOA, a small cleaning business, into a thriving enterprise with over 550 employees and an 85% market share. Her inspiring story showcases resilience, achieving a remarkable 300% reduction in turnover rates. Now, as she steps into a new chapter, Mary focuses on public speaking and coaching, encouraging others to embrace life’s possibilities and make a meaningful impact.
I am grateful to Mary for sharing her wealth of knowledge and passion for dreams. Her insights on business growth, personal growth and pursuing your dreams are sure to inspire HR professionals and leaders of kinds to BUILD A Vibrant Culture.
Want to know more about Mary?
Mary’s Book: https://a.co/d/hwFQRgt
Other books mentioned on this episode:
The Dream Manager by Matthew Kelly: https://a.co/d/7aTSYML
Positive Intelligence by Shirzad Chamine: https://a.co/d/iGSsIWc
10x is easier than 2x by Dan Sullivan & Dr. Benjamin Hardy: https://a.co/d/0V3zRL2
Visit her on Social Media:
X: @mary_dreams
Intagram: mary_dreamsbig
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/mary-miller-dreams
Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to the Build a Vibrant Culture podcast for more insights on creating thriving workplaces!
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This week on the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole interviews Davina Stanley, author of Elevate: How to Lift the Quality of Thinking in Your Team's Board Papers without Rewriting Them Yourself and Engage: How to Engage Senior Leaders and Boards without Burning Nights and Weekends Iterating on Your Papers. Davina Stanley has been helping executives clarify and convey complex ideas for more than 25 years.
You may be thinking, 'What are Board Papers?'
Board papers outline key information on the discussion points, decisions and actions required for a board meeting. In essence board papers can either gain you the support you need from your board or derail you plans altogether. Government entities, non-profits and some businesses utilize a board for proper governance of the organization. Governance is the process of governing or overseeing an organization. It can include the institutions, processes, and practices that are used to make decisions and regulate issues of common concern.
The leadership and employees of the organization use board papers to convince, persuade, inform and create awareness for the board to make decisions. Essentially, if the board papers are excellent you can gain support, move forward quickly, and create excitement for the vision. Davina's books help leaders create superior board papers!
Previously, she was a consultant at McKinsey in Hong Kong. Davina has helped people of all levels across most professions since then. In addition, Davina grew up in Australia, and has lived in Hong Kong, New York, Tokyo and now Seattle. Currently, Davina lives in Seattle with her husband.
I am grateful to Davina for sharing her wealth of knowledge and passion for communication. Her insights on board papers, writing, and leaders taking charge of their communication are sure to inspire HR professionals and leaders alike to BUILD A Vibrant Culture.
Want to know more about Davina?
Buy the Books: https://clarityfirstprogram.com/books-communication-strategy-examples/
Visit:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/communicateup
X: x.com/clarityprogramLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenball26/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clarityfirstprogram/
Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to the Build a Vibrant Culture podcast for more insights on creating thriving workplaces! -
This week on the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, I interview Karen Ball, Senior Fellow at Prosaic and author of Prosci’s latest publication, The ADKAR Advantage: Your New Lens for Successful Change ©2024. Previously, she was Executive Vice President of Prosci’s Research, Product, and Marketing Team. In addition to her role as an Executive Instructor, she continues to develop Prosci offerings and engage with clients as a Change Advisor.
ADKAR is a change management model that focuses on guiding individuals through the change process. The acronym stands for:
• Awareness: Understanding the need for change.
• Desire: The willingness to support and participate in the change.
• Knowledge: Knowing how to change and what the change entails.
• Ability: Having the skills and behaviors to implement the change.
• Reinforcement: Ensuring the change sticks and is sustained over time.
The model is used in organizational change initiatives, helping leaders and teams manage transitions effectively by addressing the human side of change.
Karen Ball has been using ADKAR in her work, while raising her children, and navigating her own personal desire to change. She is the SME of ADKAR. That might be too many acronyms :) however, this episode lays out how ADKAR works and how you can adopt these change management strategies, systems, and smarts into your life, career, and business too!
In this episode, you’ll hear:
• All about the ADKAR Model originally developed by Jeff Hiatt
• Stories of How Individuals and Businesses have Effectively Used ADKAR
• The Reality that CHANGE Happens One Person at a Time
• Strategies about How you Can Influence Your Organization’s Change
• And, Ultimately How you Can Shift your Organization into a CHANGE AGENCY full of CHANGE AGENTS
I am grateful to Karen Ball for sharing her wealth of knowledge and passion for Change Management. Her insights on change readiness, gaining sponsors for your change, and leaders modeling the role of change agent are sure to inspire HR professionals and leaders alike to BUILD A Vibrant Culture.
Want to know more about Karen and ADKAR?
Buy the Book:
https://www.amazon.com/ADKAR-Advantage-Your-Successful-Change/dp/B0CZVRTWTV/ref=pd_ci_mcx_mh_mcx_views_0?pd_rd_w=Ro8ST&content-id=amzn1.sym.352fa4e9-2aa8-47c3-b5ac-8a90ddbece20%3Aamzn1.symc.40e6a10e-cbc4-4fa5-81e3-4435ff64d03b&pf_rd_p=352fa4e9-2aa8-47c3-b5ac-8a90ddbece20&pf_rd_r=T7V4E7B99MTNEWKJTTNG&pd_rd_wg=mw4Aq&pd_rd_r=d79e123f-a5aa-4f7c-83eb-c225be0b2cca&pd_rd_i=B0CZVRTWTV
Visit:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ProsciExperience/
X: https://x.com/ProsciLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenball26/
Karen’s Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenball26/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/proscichangemanagement
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpROP3F4AOo2ixTuq5KQhBw
Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to the Build a Vibrant Culture podcast for more insights on creating thriving workplaces! -
This week on Build a Vibrant Culture, we're bringing you a special replay of Nicole Greer's presentation on Emotional Intelligence at the Fayetteville, NC SHRM webinar. Nicole dives deep into the importance of EQ in the workplace, sharing practical strategies for developing and implementing emotional intelligence in your organization. As a life and business coach, Nicole offers valuable insights on self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management – the four key components of emotional intelligence.
**In this episode, you'll discover:**
[02:30] The surprising statistic about how much more you can earn with high emotional intelligence
[05:15] The "lifeline" concept: How your past experiences shape your emotional responses
[08:45] Why stress isn't always bad (and how to find your "optimal stress" zone)
[12:30] The power of smiling and its physiological effects on your body and those around you
[16:00] How to use "timeouts" and manage negative self-talk for better emotional regulation
[20:15] The importance of greeting people by name and maintaining a positive workplace atmosphere
[24:45] A powerful listening technique that will make people feel truly understood
[29:00] How to use "dialogue" in meetings to foster better communication and idea-sharing**Ready to boost your emotional intelligence? Try these:**
[07:00] Conduct a self-assessment to understand your emotional triggers and responses
[11:00] Practice the "What is it like to experience you?" exercise for greater self-awareness
[14:30] Implement a "feed-forward" process in your team for continuous improvement
[18:45] Find an emotional intelligence mentor and learn from their example
[26:30] Use reflective listening in your next difficult conversation**Spark Notes (aka Key Concepts Mentioned):**
* The four buckets of emotional intelligence: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management
* The learning curve model and its relation to emotional stress
* The feeling scale: from euphoria to depression, and how to move people up
* The importance of written goals for personal and professional growth
* The three things upset people are usually seeking: power, security, or control
* The "Undercover Boss" effect: gaining perspective by walking in others' shoesThis replay of Nicole's webinar is a goldmine of information on emotional intelligence and its practical application in the workplace. Her insights on self-awareness, stress management, and effective communication offer a roadmap for leaders to create more vibrant, emotionally intelligent cultures. As we've heard today, developing EQ is not just about personal growth – it's about fostering stronger relationships, better decision-making, and ultimately, more successful organizations.
To watch the full webinar presentation by Nicole Greer on Emotional Intelligence, visit YouTube
Remember, enhancing your emotional intelligence is an ongoing journey. Which of Nicole's strategies will you implement first in your workplace?
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Join Nicole Greer as she dives into the world of HR strategy with the dynamic Tara McAlister, an HR advisor with Catapult. With 20 years of proven HR expertise, Tara excels in employee relations, recruiting, and strategic HR initiatives. Her passion for connecting people and resources to drive success shines through in this enlightening conversation.
In this episode, you'll discover:
[02:00] Tara's definition of leadership and why a title doesn't make you a leader
[05:00] The importance of modeling behavior as a leader, especially with PTO
[10:00] Strategies for effective recruiting and building your employer brand
[19:00] The value of internal recruiting and developing high-potential employees
[25:00] Tips for conducting effective interviews and the importance of transparency
[37:00] Why problem-solving skills are crucial for employees and how to develop them
[43:00] The dos and don'ts of the interview processReady to level up your HR game? Try these:
[05:30] Model the behavior you want to see in your employees, especially regarding PTO usage
[26:30] Use social media to showcase your company culture and celebrate your employees
[34:00] Empower your employees to be problem-solvers by encouraging creativity and ideas
[41:00] Be transparent about job requirements and salary ranges during the pre-screening processA big thank you to Tara McAlister for sharing her wealth of knowledge and passion for HR. Her insights on leadership, recruiting, and employee development are sure to inspire HR professionals and leaders alike to create more vibrant workplace cultures.
Resource Mentioned:
- Tara's "15 Killer Interview Questions and Scorecard"Want more Tara in your life? (We don't blame you!)
Connect with Tara on LinkedIn
Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to the Build a Vibrant Culture podcast for more insights on creating thriving workplaces! -
This week on Build a Vibrant Culture, we're bringing you a special bonus episode featuring our very own Nicole Greer and her inspiring TEDx Talk, "What do I really Want? The Powerful Question." Nicole challenges us to stop searching for answers and instead live into this powerful question. As a life and business coach, Nicole shares her insights on uncovering our deepest desires, overcoming resistance, and igniting our inner spark to shine brightly in the world.
In this episode, you'll discover:
[01:30] Why asking "What do I really want?" can be transformative (and a little uncomfortable) [03:45] The character trait you've never heard of that fans your inner spark
[07:15] How to move from your comfort zone to your learning zone (and why it matters)
[10:00] The three essential steps to uncovering and pursuing what you really want
[13:30] Why integrity might not mean what you think it does (and how to truly embody it)
[16:45] Real-life examples of people who dared to ask "What do I really want?" (and the amazing results)Ready to level up your life? Try these:
[08:30] Conduct a thorough self-assessment to explore who you are
[11:15] Develop habits that fuel your dreams and desires
[14:00] Practice the "three perspectives" exercise to gain clarity on your future
[15:30] Tap into your five energies to overcome obstacles and fatigueSpark Notes (aka Key Concepts Mentioned):
The importance of willingness in pursuing your dreamsThe lifeline concept: from "popping on the planet" to leaving a legacyThe comfort zone vs. learning zone diagramThe three-step process: Self-assessment, Habits, and IntegrityThe power of foresight vs. hindsightThe five energies: Mental, Emotional, Spiritual, Physical, and RelationalThis bonus episode featuring Nicole's TEDx Talk is a powerful reminder of the impact of self-reflection and purposeful action. Her insights on willingness, self-discovery, and pursuing our deepest desires offer a roadmap for leaders to create more vibrant lives and cultures. As we've heard today, the journey to igniting our inner flame begins with a simple yet profound question: "What do I really want?" We hope this talk inspires you to dive deep, embrace your dreams, and take those next right steps towards your destiny.
Watch the TEDx Talk here: https://youtu.be/L1qYzx0F5jc?si=vTivIVR3I1aybagj
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Mastering Change Management with Tim Creasey
*A 2023 Listener Favorite Episode Replay*
In this special replay of one of our most popular episodes from 2023, Nicole Greer, The Vibrant Coach, sits down with change management guru Tim Creasey. As Prosci's Chief Innovation Officer, Tim brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, offering game-changing insights on how to navigate the complex world of organizational change.
Are you struggling to implement changes in your organization? Do you want to create a workplace that not only adapts to change but thrives on it? This episode is your roadmap to success! Tim Creasey, known for his ability to solve a Rubik's Cube in under 90 seconds, applies that same sharp, strategic thinking to the puzzle of change management.
Get ready to dive deep into the ADKAR model, explore the delicate balance between productivity and workplace humanity, and discover how to build a company culture that people are excited to be part of. Whether you're a seasoned executive or an up-and-coming leader, this conversation is packed with actionable strategies to transform your approach to change.
Key Topics Discussed
[03:15] Tim's definitions of leadership and change leadership
[07:30] The ProSci Change Triangle (PCT) and its components
[16:20] Introduction to the ADKAR model for individual change management
[28:30] Strategies for overcoming resistance to change
[37:20] Balancing productivity with a humane work environment
[42:10] The role of project management in successful change initiativesResources Mentioned
Prosci.com - For blogs, webinars, and information on change management certificationTim Talks on YouTube - Short videos explaining change management conceptsADKAR model book by Jeff HiattConnect with Tim Creasey
Find Tim on LinkedInAbout the Host
Nicole Greer, known as The Vibrant Coach, is a professional speaker, coach, and consultant dedicated to helping leaders build vibrant organizational cultures that drive success and employee satisfaction.*Don't forget to subscribe to the Build a Vibrant Culture podcast for more insights on creating a thriving workplace!*
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This week on Build a Vibrant Culture, we're diving into the world of happy workplaces with the delightful Megan Cook, Co-Founder and Chief Administrative Officer of Happy Companies.
Megan is passionate about helping others build exceptional teams and believes in the power of understanding to foster deeper connections for personal and professional growth.
As a self-professed data nerd, she loves diving into numbers and oversees critical functions like HR, finance, and administrative operations at Happy Companies.
Megan collaborates closely with the Happy Science team to enhance workplace behaviors and dynamics through the Happy assessment. Her goal? To ignite passion in everyone, helping them feel understood and empowered to be their best selves.
Megan shares how you can transform your company culture from "meh" to magnificent.
In this episode, you'll discover:
[02:30] Why HR needs to ditch the "principal's office" vibe and embrace people-power
[14:45] The secret sauce for building trust and connection (even in remote teams!)
[21:30] How assessments can be your BFF in understanding team dynamics
[23:00] The power of the Happy Assessment in boosting workplace relationships
[44:00] Why AI might actually help us be more human at work (really!)
[50:00] The power of being a lifelong learner and book nerd (unite!)
Ready to level up your leadership? Try these:
[36:15] Schedule intentional connection time with your team (popcorn optional, but recommended!)
[24:00] Embrace assessments to decode those tricky work style differences
[46:30] Use tech to streamline the boring stuff so you can focus on the people stuff
[51:30] Pick up a leadership book and get your learn on!
A big thank you to Megan Cook for bringing her enthusiasm, expertise, and infectious passion for creating vibrant workplace cultures to our show. Her insights on building connections, embracing technology, and fostering continuous learning are sure to inspire leaders to create happier, more engaged teams. We're grateful for her time and can't wait to see the positive impact she continues to make in the world of work!
Book Nook (aka Resources Mentioned):
"Actualized Leadership: Meeting Your Shadow and Maximizing Your Potential" by William Sparks
"Rocket Fuel: The One Essential Combination That Will Get You More of What You Want from Your Business" by Gino Wickman
Anything by Patrick Lencioni (Megan's on a binge!)
"Work Rules! Insights from Inside Google That Will Transform How You Live and Lead" by Laszlo Bock
"The 5 Levels of Leadership: Proven Steps to Maximize Your Potential" by John Maxwell
"Servant Leadership: A Journey into the Nature of Legitimate Power and Greatness" by Robert Greenleaf
Want more Megan in your life? (We don't blame you!)
Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megancook-hc23/
Check out Happy Companies
Try Happy FREE!!
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Unpacking the Pillars of Success with Jackson Calame
In this episode of the "Build a Vibrant Culture" podcast, host Nicole Greer interviews Jackson Calame, founder and CEO of First Class Business. They discuss the key pillars of success in building a vibrant company culture and sustainable business growth.
Episode Highlights:
Foundation of Love in Business (00:02:20)Jackson emphasizes that "leadership is love" and discusses how this principle forms the foundation of a successful business.
The First Class Business Values Model (00:11:27)Jackson introduces his business values model, which includes love, consistency, reliability, persistence, and patience as pillars of success.
Consistency and Reliability in Leadership (00:12:06)The importance of being consistent and reliable as a leader, and how these qualities contribute to building a strong team and company culture.
The Power of Persistence in Overcoming Challenges (00:20:43)Jackson shares his personal experiences and the importance of persistence in achieving success despite obstacles.
Developing Patience and Effective Feedback (00:24:12)Discuss the challenges of being patient as a leader and the importance of giving and receiving constructive feedback.
Key Takeaways:
1. Building a vibrant culture starts with a foundation of love and strong values.
2. Consistency and reliability are crucial pillars of success in leadership and business operations.
3. Persistence is key to overcoming challenges and achieving long-term success.
4. Leaders must develop patience and create an environment where feedback is given and received constructively.
5. Implementing these pillars of success can lead to sustainable business growth and a championship-level culture.
Free Resource for our listeners:
Jackson is offering his "Power Launch" webinar free to the Build a Vibrant Culture podcast listeners as well as access to his "Power Launch Max".
A special thank you to Jackson Calame for sharing his invaluable insights on building a First Class Business. His passion for leadership, commitment to creating vibrant company cultures, and innovative approach to business growth are truly inspiring. Jackson's personal experiences and practical strategies offer listeners a wealth of knowledge to apply in their own leadership journeys
Resources Mentioned:
Book: "The Effective Executive" by Peter DruckerBook: "The Greatest Salesman in the World" by Og MandinoBook: "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team" by Patrick LencioniConnect with Jackson:
First Class Business website
Jackson's Power Launch Webinar
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacksoncalame
https://www.instagram.com/visionproslive/
https://twitter.com/JacksonCalame
https://www.facebook.com/jacksoncalame
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3owfGfYNaF3_Bqms28FNHw
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Join Nicole Greer as she chats with Al Devine, a dynamic entrepreneur who transformed from a regional sales coordinator to the successful owner of "Devine" Entrepreneurial, Life and Work Lessons to Live By. Al shares powerful insights on leadership, emphasizing the coaching role that drives individuals to achieve their goals.
Discover the key traits of a great leader, including empathy, humility, and active listening. Learn the importance of taking risks and maintaining a positive attitude. Tune in for Al's inspiring journey from law to the insurance industry and his tips on continuous learning and adaptability to build a vibrant culture in any organization.
Here are some highlights from the episode:
[00:01:32] Definition of leadership.
[00:12:15] Leadership traits and balance.
[00:26:02] Risk-taking for success.
[00:38:33] The power of questions.
[00:44:24] Believing in what is possible.
Al’s dedication to fostering a coaching leadership style to build a vibrant culture is truly inspiring! In this episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, gain practical insights and strategies to empower your team and drive success in your organization!
Connect with Al:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/al-devine-50a806a5/ -
On this episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture podcast, Nicole Greer welcomes Josh Kwasny, a Certified EOS Implementer and a passionate leader with over 20 years of experience in helping organizations thrive.
Josh, a former Vice President of Operations turned full-time EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) Implementer, shares his journey of bringing order to chaos and cultivating healthy, vibrant cultures within businesses. Tune in to learn how Josh uses simple, proven tools to drive organizational clarity and align leadership teams toward success and freedom.
Highlights:
[00:02:00] Definition of leadership.
[00:06:37] Leadership qualities myth.
[00:29:40] Core values and culture fit.
[00:34:34] Solving Issues within the team using EOS.
[00:48:39] Curiosity as a leadership trait.
Josh’s commitment to implementing the Entrepreneurial Operating System to build a vibrant culture in organizations is inspiring! In this episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, get actionable strategies for creating a high-performing team and achieving success in your business!
Connect with Josh:
Website: https://www.eosworldwide.com/josh-kwasny
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshkwasny/
https://www.facebook.com/eosworldwide/
https://x.com/EOSWorldwide
https://www.youtube.com/EOSWorldwide
https://www.instagram.com/entrepreneurialoperatingsystem/ -
In this episode of the "Build a Vibrant Culture" podcast, host Nicole Greer interviews Traci Chernoff, creator of the "Bringing the Human back to Human Resources" podcast.
They discuss the significance of reintroducing the human element into HR, aligning employee demands with business needs, and the challenges HR professionals face. Traci emphasizes the importance of infrastructure and career growth opportunities, particularly in flexible work environments.
They also touch on knowledge sharing, succession planning, and strategic HR practices. Traci shares insights from her podcast and encourages listeners to engage with her content for practical HR solutions.
Highlights:
The Human Element in HR (00:05:41)Employee Engagement and Feedback (00:13:30)Aligning Employee Demands with Business Needs (00:19:26)Earned Wage Access and (00:26:17)Career Growth and Infrastructure (00:35:59)Strategic planning for human resources (00:47:32)Traci’s commitment to bringing the human back to HR is inspiring. Her podcast “Bringing the Human back to Human Resources” provides actionable insights on how to do just that in your workplace. Listeners are encouraged to visit Traci’s website to learn more about her career services (resume and career consulting). Stay tuned for another vibrant episode of the “Build a Vibrant Culture” podcast next week!
Connect with Traci:
Career Services: Hrtraci.com
Bringing the Human back to Human Resources Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/hrtraciLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hrtraci/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HRTraci
IG: https://www.instagram.com/hrtraci
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Welcome back to the Build a Vibrant Culture podcast, where host Nicole Greer engages with the insightful Burroughes, an ex-British Army officer and renowned leadership expert. Jimmy, the author of "Beat Burnout, Ignite Performance" and "Escape the Multitasking Trap," shares his expertise on building high-performance cultures and combating burnout.
Jimmy and Nicole explore practical strategies for leadership, emphasizing the importance of mono-tasking, clear purpose alignment and fostering an abundance mindset. Jimmy highlights the need for effective onboarding, continuous development, and the significance of downtime for optimal performance. The episode provides actionable tips for leaders to create a supportive and high-performing team environment. See below to grab Jimmy’s free Ebook: "Escape the Multitasking Trap"
Highlights:▪️ The Multitasking Trap (00:01:51)
▪️ High Performance Culture as a Team Sport (00:09:18)
▪️ Impostor Syndrome and Overworking (00:20:28)
▪️ Creative vs. Consumptive Downtime (00:45:33)
Jimmy’s appreciation for the conversation and his recognition of the importance of their work is truly inspiring. His books, “Beat Burnout, Ignite Performance” and “Escape the Multitasking Trap,” are must-reads for anyone seeking practical strategies and inspiration in their leadership journey. Listeners are encouraged to stay tuned for more enlightening episodes of the "Build a Vibrant Culture" podcast.
Connect with Jimmy:
Instagram: instagram.com/jimmybleadership/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jimmyburroughes
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jimmybleadership
Website: www.jimmyburroughes.com
Check out Jimmy’s books: https://www.jimmyburroughes.com/e-book-sales-beat-burnout
https://www.jimmyburroughes.com/escape-the-multitasking-trap
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Welcome back to the "Build a Vibrant Culture" podcast, where host Nicole Greer converses with the inspiring Robb Munger, founder of Exodus Place, a transitional housing facility for homeless men, and author of “Momentum: Getting One's Momentum Back!”. Robb, with an impressive background in finance and the military, shares his transformative journey from finance to philanthropy, driven by a powerful experience with an unhoused man.
Robb and Nicole delve into the practical aspects of leadership, discussing the importance of humility, empathy, and business acumen. Robb's experiences in stabilizing Guiding Light Mission and his emphasis on engaging homeless individuals in meaningful work provide valuable insights into compassionate leadership in action. The episode is a treasure trove of wisdom on maintaining momentum and strategic thinking in leadership.
Highlights:
▪️ An Unexpected Path and Leadership Redefined (1:47)
▪️ Compassionate Leadership in Action (17:38)
▪️ Get Your Momentum Back (23:47)
▪️ Intentional Velocity (39:13)
Robb’s gratitude for the conversation and his acknowledgment of the impact of their work is truly heartwarming. His book, "Momentum", is a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and guidance in their leadership journey. Listeners are encouraged to stay tuned for more inspiring episodes of the "Build a Vibrant Culture" podcast.
Connect with Robb and Exodus Place:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExodusPlace/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exodus.place.gr/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Robbmunger/
But Robb’s Book: https://a.co/d/00i2Fl5b
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In the latest episode of the "Build a Vibrant Culture" podcast, host Nicole Greer engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Marcel Petitpas, the CEO and co-founder of Parakeeto.
Marcel is an expert in agency profitability optimization and serves as the head strategic coach at SaaS Academy by Dan Martell. They delve into the controversial topic of time tracking in service-based businesses, discussing its impact on company culture and profitability.
Marcel shares strategies for implementing time tracking to foster trust and collaboration, emphasizing the importance of accurate data, clear expectations, and open communication. The conversation also covers optimizing gross margins, data-driven project scoping, and the benefits of transparent management practices.
The episode offers valuable insights for agencies aiming to enhance profitability and culture.
🔶 Key Points:
🔸Understanding the Importance of Time Tracking (03:41)
🔸The Controversy Surrounding Time Tracking (5:47)
🔸Strategies for Implementing Time Tracking (9:05)
🔸Decoupling Time and Money (20:32)
🔸Open Book Management (23:57)
🔸Data-Driven Project Scoping (33:04)
Pricing & scoping Resources: https://parakeeto.com/blog/how-to-identify-the-right-pricing-strategy-for-your-produc-with-marcel-petitpas-episode-68/Toolkit: https://parakeeto.com/toolkit/?utm_source=Podcast&utm_medium=GuestAppearance&utm_campaign=Nicole+GreerPodcast: https://agencyprofitpodcast.simplecast.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcelpetitpas/Course: https://parakeeto.com/course?utm_source=Podcast&utm_medium=GuestAppearance&utm_campaign=Nicole+Greer - Show more
