Episódios
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Now, more than ever, differentiation is top-of-mind for businesses who are investing heavily in attracting and retaining employees. In this episode, I am joined by John Dodds, a brand and marketing strategist and founder of The Sharp End, LLC. Having worked with multinational companies on marketing and communication strategies, John is passionate about taking an authentic approach to building and communicating your brand story. In our discussion, John shares why he dubs this point in time "The Great Realization" and how companies can use their unique story to attract and retain employees.
In this episode we explore:
Defining your reputation as a brand and what makes you specialCreating a truthful narrative around the promise you make to clients, employees, and your communityUnearthing the uniqueness of your brand and how that feeds employee retentionAcknowledging that "The Great Resignation" is a reaction and how companies should be digging in to understanding what makes them specialEmbracing the intangible values in your company and workforceGrounding your brand in simple storytelling and embracing your heritage and legacy storyWriting meaningful content grounded in a true understanding of your productIf employee retention is a top concern as a manager or business owner, this episode is for you.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
The Boat That Rocked - popular movie made about the Pirate Radio movementDark Angels Writing Group - weekly writing community hosted by John SimmonsWe Me Them and It by SimmonsDoodlin' on WDIY - evening jazz program hosted by John DoddsConnect with Dennis on LinkedIn or email [email protected]. To learn more about Dennis and his team, visit www.mortonbrownfw.com.
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In today's business climate, attracting and retaining employees is top-of-mind. Managers and business owners are realizing the importance of team dynamics, company culture, and being a servant leader. Today's conversation is about awareness as a leader in both business, family, and life. In this discussion, I am joined by Ashley Russo, a journalist turned entrepreneur and third-generation business leader. Ashley embodies what it means to create a balance for yourself personally and professionally. In our discussion, she shares the tools and approach she uses to understand the life cycle of your business and cultivate a passionate and loyal team.
In this episode we explore:
Creating opportunities for yourself that feed your passions both personally and professionally.Realistically looking at your strengths and weaknesses and building a team to fill in the gaps.Developing processes and efficiencies in your business.Understanding the needs of your team to ensure effective communication.Learning to create agility and feed a business as a living, breathing organism.If you are looking to grow a passionate and loyal team as a manager or business owner, this episode is for you.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Atomic Habits by James ClearDiSC® Personal Assessment ToolGood to Great by Jim CollinsConnect with Dennis on LinkedIn or email [email protected]. To learn more about Dennis and his team, visit www.mortonbrownfw.com.
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After building companies and sparking innovation, many entrepreneurs start to think about how to better their communities through commitments of time, talent, and treasure. Whether serving on the board of a non-profit, or raising money for a cause close to their hearts, successful business owners bring a unique perspective to community leadership. In this this discussion, I am joined by Susan Yee, the CEO of Active Data and a renowned community leader. In our conversation, we explore a fascinating phase of an entrepreneur’s journey where the ideas, skills, and innovation that drove business success are then turned outward for the benefit of the community.
In this episode we are going to learn:
How an entrepreneur’s upbringing shaped both her career and how she serves her community.The business leadership lessons that can be applied to serving on a non-profit board.How engagement with a community organization can turn into advocacy for the unique challenges of our time.If you want your leadership to be impactful in all of your endeavors, you are going to love this conversation.
Connect with Dennis on LinkedIn or email [email protected]. To learn more about Dennis and his team, visit www.mortonbrownfw.com.
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The market for mergers and acquisitions is extremely active with abundant liquidity and strategic buyers poking around in many industries. Valuations for attractive companies are strong but not every business is ready for a successful sale or acquisition. In this episode, I am joined by Bob McCormack, Founder and Managing Partner of Murphy McCormack Capital Advisors. During our discussion, we explore business transactions from a financial perspective: That of the buyer, the seller, and the entrepreneur who isn’t sure.
In this episode:
Current financial conditions in 2021 for middle market businesses and why the market is so hot right nowHow business owners are reacting to the current challenges and opportunitiesThe difference between selling and buying now vs. just after the Great Financial CrisisIndustries seeing the most action for succession planningSelling a business and why owners are so unpreparedPsychological considerations and counseling owners through the buying and selling processWho should be on your team when buying and selling middle market businessesWhat an owner can do 10 years out from a sale to get the most out of a future transactionImportant considerations when structuring deals and valuations for short-term transactionsCreating contingency plans post-pandemic and cyber security risk plansInternal succession plans and finding key leadersKeys to sustaining a business through multiple generationsImportance of communication and truth in the buying and selling processOutlook of mergers and acquisitions industry through 2022First steps for a business owner looking to build an action plan for sale or successionBob McCormack shares what he is currently listening to and reading:
Built to Sell Podcast with John WarrillowBe 2.0 by Jim CollinsPrivate Equity Funcast a ParkerGale PodcastConnect with Dennis on LinkedIn or email [email protected]. To learn more about Dennis and his team, visit www.mortonbrownfw.com.
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In this episode I talk with my business partner Kathryn M. Brown, CFP, CHFC, Co-founder & Principal of Morton Brown Family Wealth about the mindset it takes to succeed in a role that requires steadiness, perspective, and, most of all, trust. Stress and anxiety tend to show up in our relationships with money and in our health. We'll talk about how a professional stays focused for the benefit of the people she serves.
Katie has a degree in economics and finance from York College. She has lead financial planning, operations and compliance as a partner in an advisory firm for over 15 years. Her specialities are investments, retirement, insurance, taxation and estate planning.
In this episode we explore:
How an advisor's personal relationship with money influences the way she provides advice to clients.What leading an advisory firm can teach us about the habits of successful investors.The mindsets that support healthy habits around health and wealth. Developing interpersonal relationships between money and the social element of being an advisor to help clients build healthy relationships with money.How being a good business owner translates into being a good financial advisor.Developing trust between your team members and your clients in order to best support them.How does someone know if they have a good financial advisor? What should they look for?The negative impact of client fear on the development of trust with their advisor.How a changing relationship with money changes how she advises clients today.What she's learned from three years in business and her perspectives on the clients she serves.Why she dislikes the stock market when it comes to deciding where and how to invest money.The things that can inhibit an advisor's ability to deliver advice in their best capacity.What she's learned about herself as a leader from being an entrepreneur.What her professional goals are for her career and for our agency.The behind-the-scenes details that a financial planner does, which most clients would be surprised to know about.The best advice she was ever given.What the best win of her career is so far.On the personal side of things, Katie is an athlete and enjoys running, tennis, and rugby. She discusses how they contribute to her success as a business leader and financial advisor. She also serves on the Board of Directors of Valley Youth House, which supports children in foster care as they transition to adulthood, and provides shelter and outreach services. www.valleyyouthhouse.org
Connect with Dennis on LinkedIn or email [email protected]. To learn more about Dennis and his team, visit www.mortonbrownfw.com.
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Exploring the arc of a leader can tell you a lot about how they choose to lead in their career and in life. In this episode, I am joined by Colin Keefe, a mergers and acquisitions attorney and Shareholder at Fitzpatrick Lentz & Bubba. Colin represents sellers in eight- and nine-figure strategic and private equity transactions with national and international buyers. Together, we explore our military backgrounds that surprisingly intersected and how Colin's experience in the Marines gives him a unique perspective in high-risk negotiations and business transactions.
In this episode, we explore:
How a poor first attempt at college resulted in what would become valuable experience in the military.Re-entering society and college as a civilian and the challenges faced in that transition.Applying the dedication and work ethic of the military to a successful second chance at college.The inspiration family has on our career choices and the footsteps we follow.Overcoming and "unlearning" certain things after serving active duty.Experience at a large Manhattan law firm that shaped a niche career in mergers and acquisitions work and how it all translates into a successful career in the Lehigh Valley.What it's like working in the Lehigh Valley and what makes it an ideal region for M&A work.Effects of the pandemic on M&A and how the stimulus helped sustain business.Expected growth in the M&A space in 2021 as life returns to "normal".An introduction to M&A transactions and the difference between private equity and strategic buyers as well as platform companies and roll-ups that bridge the gap.Explore the mind of a business owner and how they can "tell their story", including their experience through the pandemic, when presenting a business for sale.Lifestyle mindset vs. enterprise mindset and how how to succeed in the future.Behavioral and emotional roadblocks experienced by sellers that can kill a deal.Taking a wholistic view of a business transaction, beyond the perception of losing control.Role of a lawyer in an M&A transaction and attempting to control the allocation of risk.Colin also shares his passion for supporting veterans in need through his service to Victory House, an organization dedicated to providing local homeless veterans and homeless men with opportunities to transition to independent affordable housing and to begin new lives. For more information visit www.victoryhouselv.org.
Learn more about Colin and his firm at www.flblaw.com.
Connect with Dennis on LinkedIn or email [email protected]. To learn more about Dennis and his team, visit www.mortonbrownfw.com.
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In business, some of the most successful entrepreneurs and leaders maintain right and left-brained strengths. In this episode, I am joined by Zeke Zelker, a critically acclaimed and award-winning filmmaker. Both his background in economics and finance and his uniquely creative approach have lead to his success as a producer and entrepreneur. Zeke produced the first transmedia project at the Sundance Film Festival, Pandemic and most recently produced part of David Cronenberg’s Body Mind Change which is touring various museums around the world. Raised at an amusement park (Dorney Park), Zeke shares how his unique upbringing fed his history of creative endeavors and shaped the way he thinks about the world.
In this episode, we explore:
What it was like to grow up with a "Disney" mentality and how that shapes the view of entertainment and business.Zeke's unique path to becoming a Sundance-recognized film producer and why he decided to keep the Lehigh Valley as his home.Balancing right and left-brain to create economically-viable creative projects.The struggle of quantity over quality when it comes to content, entertainment, and business.Managing several irons in the fire and balancing multiple interests and ventures.Being a "grunt of creativity" and using it as a strength in problem solving and leadership.Leading by example and showing your people what it take to "make things happen".Creating Art Spark and Art Wars as a way to give back to the art and creative community as well as promote healthy eating and decision making.The power of "owning the idea" in addition to being creative.Incorporating a Chief Creative Officer into your business and how a creative perspective can add value and longevity.Finding inspiration from others when you can't find a mentor.Developing diversity as a means to mitigate risk in business.Adapting to the world around you as an entrepreneur.Taking uniquely better ideas and making them your own to creative a compelling business or story.Creating quality product and embracing quality of life.The difference between creating and curating.Advice for young people starting their career and how to build resilience and integrity in 2020.Dealing with adversity and seeing resistance as friction and energy rather than "being stuck".Resources mentioned in this episode:
Devil in the White City by Eric LarsenSimon SinekThe War of Art by Steven PressfieldAtomic Habits by James ClearFor more about Zeke Zelker's projects, visit www.idreammachine.com and www.zecraft.com.
Connect with Dennis on LinkedIn or email [email protected]. To learn more about Dennis and his team, visit www.mortonbrownfw.com.
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We are all called to be more flexible and innovative as leaders. In this episode, I am joined by Craig Reynolds, former CEO of Cigars International and current Senior Advisor to Scandinavian Tobacco Group, and his Executive Coach, Eleanor Lawrence of Human Dynamics, LLC and the Center for Creative Leadership. After engaging with Eleanor as a coach to address some self-identified internal weaknesses, Craig started to use the same tactics to intentionally develop high-potential leaders and ultimately identify his successor. Listen in to find out how Craig challenged his leadership team to not just run their departments but to run the business. In this episode, we dive in to the powerful idea of what we see in others and what others see in us.
In this episode, we dive in on:
Defining leadership and what it takes to build a leadership culture within an organization.What it means to be a versatile leader and understanding how to manage in chaos.Diversity of thought and fostering an open environment where senior management is empowered to challenge the status quo.How to go beyond creating efficient groups to building functioning teams.Utilizing assessments to become self-aware of right- and left-brained tendencies to teach versatility and agility for executives.Identifying the difference between subject matter experts and high-potential people.Integrating executive teams when facing acquisitions and mergers and sustain trust in your leadership.Asking for feedback on impact and effectiveness as a leader.Quantifying trust in an organization and showing vulnerability as a leader.Allowing team members to respectfully challenge decisions.Expanding your thinking as a leader and pay attention to the surrounding "white space" that could better prepare your organization for the unexpected.Creating a leadership culture through routinely and systemically developing your executive team.Challenging a team of leaders to not just run departments but run the business through accountability and responsibility.Resources mentioned in this episode:
The Speed of Trust by Steven M.R. CoveyThe Leader's Greatest Return by John MaxwellFor more about Craig Reynolds, connect with him on LinkedIn. Eleanor Lawrence can be reached at [email protected] or on LinkedIn.
Connect with Dennis on LinkedIn or email [email protected]. To learn more about Dennis and his team, visit www.mortonbrownfw.com.
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Restrictions due to COVID-19 hit the travel and tourism industry hard. The number one priority? Safety. I recently sat down with Tom Stoudt, the Executive Director for Lehigh Valley International Airport, to discuss how he is leading a regional airport and facing this challenge head-on. Tom, with a unique background as an aircraft mechanic who rose through the ranks into the executive suite, provides the key to his success as a leader: Collaboration. He also provides an insider look at how airports and airlines are preparing to move beyond the pandemic to provide a safe environment for workers and the public.
In this episode, we discuss:
The art and science of engineering safety into the system.The impressive team it takes to get planes off the ground in a heavy infrastructure environment.Assigning deputies and the importance of not operating in isolation.How Tom's background as an aircraft mechanic serves him in problem-solving as a leader.Being vigilant and focused as a leader. Preventing distraction and information overload.Communicating safety and ensure proper flow of information.Changing goals and shifting priorities in the face of major events (such as pandemics).Building a strong and diverse team. Trusting that team and making sure to listen as their leader.STAY TUNED: Dennis asks Tom for an insider's perspective on what aviation and the travel industry will look like beyond COVID-19.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Simon Sinek's PodcastThe Ziglar Show PodcastPeter Drucker, the "father of management"Les Brown Greatness Radio (not mentioned but recommended by Tom)Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon HillYou can follow what's going on at Lehigh Valley International Airport on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. You can also connect with Tom on LinkedIn.
Connect with Dennis on LinkedIn or email [email protected]. To learn more about Dennis and his team, visit www.mortonbrownfw.com.
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We have all been forced to adapt to the new world we are facing as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. I recently sat down with Cheryl Doll, a business coach with Compass Point Consulting, LLC, to discuss how her family business clients are surviving and what crucial moves their leadership is making to thrive in this environment. Cheryl provides meaningful insight into the unique dynamic of family businesses and how leaders should be thinking about their people, processes, and strategies as well as what they can be doing to ensure the long-term success of their business.
Our conversation includes:
Common themes Cheryl sees in family business owners at this time of crisis.Traits of leaders who are "doing it right" including communication and strong execution.Using Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs to ensure family business leaders are taking care of themselves both mentally and physically.Redefining family business culture through "values" and how to make good business decisions based on those values.How to use traditional tools like SWOT analyses in new ways to measure business performance and determine next steps.Defining a clear vision for business legacy.Developing an Emergency Management Plan and ensuring the next generation of leadership is prepared. As Cheryl notes in this episode: "No one wants to buy a business that cannot run without the current owner."Resources mentioned in this episode:
Transcend: The New Science of Self-Actualization by Scott Barry KaufmanThe Power of Habit by Charles DuhiggHigh Performance Habits: How Extraordinary People Become That Way by Brendon BurchardFor more information on Cheryl and her team, visit: www.compasspt.com. You can also reach out to Cheryl directly through email: [email protected].
Connect with Dennis on LinkedIn or email [email protected]. To learn more about Dennis and his team, visit www.mortonbrownfw.com.
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Finding purpose in your second act can be a daunting task. I recently sat down with George Mowrer, a Certified Retirement Coach, to discuss how he is working with individuals and couples to define their identity and find meaning and happiness in retirement.
In this episode, George reveals a simple structure for to evaluating what's important, regardless of whether we are nearing retirement or just starting our careers. He shared five questions we should be asking ourselves and how our answers can frame next steps:
What do you truly value and what do you want to value?Who do you want to become in your next chapter?What are your "next time" goals? What are the things in your life you’ve always wanted to do, but haven’t done yet?How are your relationships (spouse, family, friends) and what are you doing to improve them?How is your physical and mental health?For more information on George and his mission, vist: www.NextChapterRC.com. You can also reach out to George directly through email: [email protected].
To connect with Dennis on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennis-morton-jr/) or email [email protected].
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In this inaugural episode, I am joined by Dr. Michael J. Consuelos, a leading voice in public health crises, emergency preparedness response, and pandemic response. Dr. Consuelos is a fellow Army veteran and currently serves as an executive coach and consultant in the healthcare space.
Both located in the Lehigh Valley in Eastern Pennsylvania, we came together just as our area started to experience the economic effects of COVID-19. In addition to Dr. Consuelos's extensive experience working with healthcare executives, we pull together our backgrounds in the military to provide decision makers and business leaders with tools to successfully navigate and lead their people through the coronavirus pandemic. Listen in for our take on...
Incorporating After Action Reviews and proper internal communicationsMaking battlefield promotionsInstituting a business continuity planRunning a virtual organization while keeping teams engagedKeeping pace and cadence in virtual meetingsLearning from emergency response teamsFinding your "battle buddy" and preventing isolationNoticing behavioral health issues and signs in employees and clientsAvoiding the "sacrifice syndrome" and incorporating self-care and healthy habitsUtilizing "hot wash" methods to learn and grow from this experienceKey takeaway: "The team you have at the beginning of this is not going to be the same team you are in the end."
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Behavioral Health Crisis Hotline: Text Hello to 741741For more information on Dr. Michael J. Consuelos, visit: www.mjc.solutions.
Connect with Dennis on LinkedIn or email [email protected]. To learn more about Dennis and his team, visit www.mortonbrownfw.com.
