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How can data and technology transform education while keeping the human connection alive?
Chris Hull, Co-founder and President of Otus, joins the podcast to discuss his journey from a seventh-grade social studies teacher to leading an edtech company focused on making student data accessible and actionable for educators.
Chris shares how Otus centralizes diverse student data—grades, attendance, behavioral insights—to support teachers, districts, and families, creating a complete picture of each learner. Chris also opens up about the challenges of building a remote team, fostering a strong culture with former educators and engineers, and maintaining motivation and connectivity in a virtual environment.
Join Chris, Doug, and Una for a conversation on the evolution of education and the heart of team dynamics.
Key Takeaways:
Centralizing data for deeper learning connections: Otus aggregates student data into a single platform, enabling teachers to understand each student’s unique needs, from performance metrics to personal interests.Balancing tech and human connection in education: Chris emphasizes that technology should enhance learning without overshadowing the essential teacher-student relationship.Cultivating culture in remote teams: Intentionality is key for Otus’s remote team, where fostering a strong, inclusive culture is essential to uniting former educators and tech professionals.Key Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Intro
00:01:28 - Chris’s Background: From Teacher to CEO
00:03:57 - The Genesis of Otus and Early Challenges
00:06:40 - Solving Education Gaps with Data Integration
00:09:30 - The Journey from Idea to Full-Time Commitment
00:11:20 - Transition to a Remote Company Model
00:13:15 - Building Team Culture Remotely
00:15:25 - Team Dynamics: All-Stars vs. Cohesive Group
00:17:43 - Balancing Diverse Team Roles at Otus
00:19:32 - Adapting Tech for Individual Student Success
00:23:30 - Finding Balance: Social vs. Isolated Learning
00:26:01 - Will Chris Return to Teaching?
00:27:25 - Leading Adults vs. Teaching Kids
00:31:54 - Wrapping Up with Gratitude
Key Topics Discussed:
EdTech innovation, student data management, remote team culture, education technology, Otus platform, teacher insights, mission-driven leadership, fostering teamwork, gratitude in teams
Build Stronger, Connected, More Engaged Teams:
Use Coupon Code: AMAZINGTEAMS for 15% off for the first 3 months.
About the Amazing Teams Podcast:
We started this podcast because we love teams, especially amazing ones. Michael Jordan said it best, "Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships." This is what we're all about!
Our mission is to help others build amazing teams by having authentic conversations with remarkable people who are building amazing teams. We will explore the tactics, strategies, and frameworks that have helped them succeed.
The Amazing Teams Podcast is produced by HeyTaco and edited by Lifetime Value Media.
Learn more about LTV at: https://www.lifetimevaluemedia.com
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In this episode, Doug and Una dive into the myths and facts surrounding happiness at work. They challenge common beliefs, revealing that workplace happiness goes beyond perks like free snacks and ping pong tables. Instead, they emphasize purpose, recognition, and belonging as the true drivers of satisfaction and engagement. They discuss how productivity and happiness are connected but distinct, exploring research that shows happy employees are 20% more productive and 25% less likely to leave their jobs.
Una and Doug also delve into the power of recognition, with insights on how appreciation fosters loyalty and reduces turnover. They explore the difference between fleeting happiness and lasting joy, referencing key ideas from the book Joy at Work. Finally, they highlight how workplace culture and personal joy are everyone’s responsibility—not just HR’s. Tune in to learn how meaningful recognition and a culture of gratitude can transform workplaces and drive success.
Keywords: workplace happiness, employee engagement, recognition at work, productivity and happiness, joy at work, reducing turnover, company culture, employee satisfaction, team loyalty
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How can companies inspire a culture of proactive learning?
In this episode of the Amazing Teams podcast, Doug and Una welcome Lisa Lie, founder of Learna, to discuss the transformative role of proactive learning in building resilient and adaptable teams.
Lisa, who has transitioned from a career in advertising and HR to founding her own company, shares her journey of blending her passions for product development, people operations, and continuous learning. She explores how reframing learning as problem-solving can help employees take initiative and contribute more meaningfully to team goals.
Key Takeaways:
Problem-solving over passive learning: Lisa emphasizes that learning should be an active, problem-solving experience. Shifting from “learning as a passive task” to “learning as active problem-solving” can motivate team members.Creating a “future fit” workplace: To prepare for rapid technological and economic changes, Lisa advocates for fostering adaptability, resilience, and communication—key skills that future-proof a team.Supporting founders through community: Lisa shares the importance of building a supportive network as an entrepreneur, including mentors, friends, and fellow founders, to navigate the challenges of building a business.Key Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Intro
00:01:23 - What makes an amazing team
00:02:12 - Advertising to HR: Lisa’s career pivot
00:04:14 - Building Learna: A founder’s journey
00:07:06 - Launching Learna with a prototype
00:09:40 - Fostering initiative in teams
00:11:26 - Future-fit workplace concept
00:15:00 - The art of brutal focus
00:18:06 - Hiring with a change management focus
00:21:39 - Instilling a product mindset in HR
00:24:22 - The power of pre-mortems for team planning
00:28:23 - Effective feedback techniques
Key Topics Discussed:Learning culture, proactive problem-solving, employee initiative, future-fit skills, leadership coaching, change management, HR innovation, feedback strategies, founder resilience.
Build Stronger, Connected, More Engaged Teams:
Use Coupon Code: AMAZINGTEAMS for 15% off for the first 3 months.
About the Amazing Teams Podcast:
We started this podcast because we love teams, especially amazing ones. Michael Jordan said it best, "Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships." This is what we're all about!
Our mission is to help others build amazing teams by having authentic conversations with remarkable people who are building amazing teams. We will explore the tactics, strategies, and frameworks that have helped them succeed.
The Amazing Teams Podcast is produced by HeyTaco and edited by Lifetime Value Media.
Learn more about LTV at: https://www.lifetimevaluemedia.com
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In this conversation, Doug and Una discuss the concept of unlimited PTO (Paid Time Off) and its implications in the workplace. They explore whether unlimited PTO is a trap or a beneficial policy, with Doug expressing skepticism about its effectiveness. They emphasize the importance of having structured time off to encourage employees to take the necessary breaks without guilt. The discussion also highlights the role of trust and autonomy in high-performing teams, suggesting that a culture built on these principles can lead to better employee satisfaction and productivity.
Takeaways
Unlimited PTO can often lead to employees taking less time off.Structured PTO policies can create a sense of freedom for employees.Trust and autonomy are crucial in high-performing teams.Having a minimum time off can ensure employees take necessary breaks.The honor system can work well in environments built on trust.Discipline in time off can lead to greater enjoyment of breaks.Employees may feel guilty about taking time off with unlimited PTO.A clear understanding of what 'good' looks like in terms of time off is important.The culture of a workplace can be impacted by how time off is managed.Setting boundaries around PTO can lead to a healthier work environment. -
Why should companies prioritize culture in growth?
In this episode of the Amazing Teams podcast, Doug and Una chat with Bryan Christiansen, founder and CEO of Limble, a B2B SaaS company focused on maintenance management.
Bryan discusses the pivotal role culture has played in scaling Limble from a small startup to a 250-person company over nine years. He shares insights into Limble’s core values—embodied by the acronym Moth Tacos—which emphasize merit-based success, customer obsession, transparency, and a strong no-asshole policy, all of which contribute to building a cohesive, mission-driven team. The conversation highlights how establishing and maintaining a strong culture is essential for long-term success, leadership, and fostering employee satisfaction.
Key Takeaways:
● The power of company culture: Bryan emphasizes that a company’s culture must be rooted in authentic values, like Limble’s “Moth Tacos,” which reflects its dedication to meritocracy, transparency, and customer obsession, driving team cohesion and long-term success.
● Active reinforcement of core values: Implementing systems like HeyTaco allows companies to reward employees for living the company’s values, helping to keep those values front and center in daily operations and fostering engagement.
● Leadership’s role in maintaining culture: Bryan discusses how CEOs must actively lead by example, from hiring to transparency initiatives like “Ask Me Anything” sessions, ensuring the culture permeates throughout the company as it scales.
Key Timestamps:
00:00:00 - The policy
00:01:25 - Limble’s background and growth story
00:02:35 - Building a culture-first company
00:05:00 - Defining core values with Moth Tacos
00:11:45 - The “no ahole policy” explained
00:13:20 - Bryan’s changing role as CEO
00:16:40 - Family support and Limble’s impact
00:18:50 - Living values through programs like HeyTaco
00:22:10 - Transparency and ask-me-anything culture
00:24:26 - Challenges in hiring for the C-suite
00:27:46 - Ownership of gratitude and culture at Limble
00:31:49 - Encouraging early adoption of core values
Key Topics Discussed:
Building company culture, core values definition, merit-based employee growth, scrappy startup mindset, customer obsession, transparency in leadership, team recognition, servant leadership, employee engagement, C-suite recruitment, bootstrapping, employee gratitude, fostering teamwork, leadership challenges
Build Stronger, Connected, More Engaged Teams:
Use Coupon Code: AMAZINGTEAMS for 15% off for the first 3 months.
About the Amazing Teams Podcast:
We started this podcast because we love teams, especially amazing ones. Michael Jordan said it best, "Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships." This is what we're all about!
Our mission is to help others build amazing teams by having authentic conversations with remarkable people who are building amazing teams. We will explore the tactics, strategies, and frameworks that have helped them succeed.
The Amazing Teams Podcast is produced by HeyTaco and edited by Lifetime Value Media.
Learn more about LTV at: https://www.lifetimevaluemedia.com
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In this short Taco Byte, Doug and Una chat about whether software tools are the answer to reinforcing company values, the role of leadership in living the values and how HeyTaco was designed to encourage meaningful and intrinsic value recognition.
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Why should companies rethink compensation strategies?
In this episode of the Amazing Teams podcast, hosts Doug and Una sit down with Lola Han, founder and CEO of Kamsa, a company dedicated to helping businesses create data-driven compensation strategies.
Lola, a seasoned expert with experience at companies like Zendesk, shares her insights into how organizations can structure fair, equitable compensation that cultivates employee growth and satisfaction. The conversation dives into the nuances of compensation philosophy, pay transparency, and how to keep employees motivated and appreciated in the long term.
Key Takeaways:
● The importance of pay transparency: A phased approach to sharing compensation philosophies helps avoid confusion, ensuring employees understand how pay is determined and when increases or promotions can be expected.
● Compensation as a foundation for employee satisfaction: Fair pay is the groundwork for appreciation, but recognition through small, regular gestures is key to keeping employees engaged and valued.
● Creative perks don’t substitute fair compensation: Unique perks may be fun, but without fair compensation, they fall flat. Lola discusses the role of meaningful perks within an overall compensation strategy.
Key Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Intro
00:01:33 - How empathy drives amazing teams
00:02:24 - The story behind Kamsa’s founding
00:05:07 - Breaking down compensation philosophies
00:07:37 - Common compensation misconceptions
00:08:46 - Creative perks and employee motivation
00:11:10 - Cringe or binge
00:14:49 - The problem with inflated titles
00:18:04 - How personal titles can impact career growth
00:19:34 - What makes a pay raise meaningful?
00:27:03 - Why compensation is foundational for appreciation
00:34:10 - Gratitudes!
Key Topics Discussed:
Compensation strategy, pay transparency, employee recognition, equity compensation, career growth, employee retention, Kamsa, startup compensation, perks vs pay.
Mentions:
Kamsa: https://www.kamsa.co
Build Stronger, Connected, More Engaged Teams:
Use Coupon Code: AMAZINGTEAMS for 15% off for the first 3 months.
About the Amazing Teams Podcast:
We started this podcast because we love teams, especially amazing ones. Michael Jordan said it best, "Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships." This is what we're all about!
Our mission is to help others build amazing teams by having authentic conversations with remarkable people who are building amazing teams. We will explore the tactics, strategies, and frameworks that have helped them succeed.
The Amazing Teams Podcast is produced by HeyTaco and edited by Lifetime Value Media.
Learn more about LTV at: https://www.lifetimevaluemedia.com
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In this episode of the Amazing Teams podcast, Doug and Una reflect on the journey since the podcast's inception in September 2023. Having interviewed 15 diverse guests, including entrepreneurs, founders, coaches, and team leads, Doug and Una share their insights from season one, emphasizing that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to building an amazing team, as each team's path is unique. Empathy emerged as a recurring theme, highlighting the importance of trust and relationships. They discuss the challenges of implementing these values consistently, especially in remote settings, and how the podcast aims to keep such critical topics top of mind for its listeners. Doug and Una also talk about the growth of their own team, the lessons learned from their guests, and the excitement for season two, which will focus more on topic-based discussions and practical strategies for team building. The episode concludes with a heartfelt exchange of gratitude and a look forward to the upcoming season.
Key Takeaways:
• There is no single way to build an amazing team, as each team is unique and special. This diversity makes it challenging to create a definitive recipe for team-building, but we’ve learned so many ways to get started - and many ways to not build an amazing team.
• Empathy emerged as a central theme throughout the season, with many guests emphasizing its importance in building trust and relationships. It's not just about knowing that empathy matters, but consistently practicing it, especially in challenging situations.
• Practical team-building tips from various guests included the importance of achieving small wins to build team cohesion and the value of engaging in meaningful activities together, rather than just leisure activities, to strengthen team bonds.
• For season two, the podcast aims to focus on more topic-based conversations with subject matter experts, delving into areas such as compensation strategies, mentorship, and living organizational values, to provide deeper insights into effective team-building practices.Key Timestamps:
(00:00) - Introduction
(00:44) - Reflecting on Season One
(02:09) - Key Takeaways from Season One
(06:29) - Insights from Guests
(19:10) - Sharing Tacos and Closing RemarksKey Topics Discussed:
Amazing Teams, Hey Taco, HeyTaco, Doug Dosberg, Una Japundza, peer recognition, empathy, practical advice, team bonding, team engagement, compensation
Mentions:
Website: https://www.amazingteams.com/
Doug on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dosberg/
Una on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/una-japundza/Build Stronger, Connected, More Engaged Teams:
https://heytaco.com/
Use Coupon Code: AMAZINGTEAMS for 15% off for the first 3 months.About the Amazing Teams Podcast:
We started this podcast because we love teams, especially amazing ones. Michael Jordan said it best, "Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships." This is what we're all about!Our mission is to help others build amazing teams by having authentic conversations with remarkable people who are building amazing teams. We will explore the tactics, strategies, and frameworks that have helped them succeed.
The Amazing Teams Podcast is produced by HeyTaco. Please share your feedback with us here: https://amazingteams.com/feedback.
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What are the 3 Cs of Culture, and how can you effectively employ them in your organization? Doug and Una dig into cohesion, clarity, and courage with Eddie Geller, founder and CEO of SKOR, a company focused on measuring and improving corporate culture. His entrepreneurial journey has taken him to founding 3 companies with 1 IPO and 2 exits. SKOR delivers clear insight into your company culture, compared internally and against industry peers, providing a playbook to making the most of your team.
In this episode of the Amazing Teams Podcast, hosts Doug and Una chat with Eddie Geller to dig deep into building transparency and communication in successful teams. The discussion delves into the three Cs of corporate culture: cohesion, clarity, and courage, and how companies can use these principles to create better work environments. Eddie also touches on common misconceptions leaders have about culture and offers practical tips for improving it within organizations. If you’re looking to build and sustain a positive corporate culture, this is the episode for you.
Key Takeaways:
• How to develop a culture where employees feel like they can communicate with the executive leadership.
• What are 3 signs of a healthy corporate culture? Eddie highlights the 3 Cs: cohesion, clarity, and courage as the 3 most important aspects of building an amazing team.
• Why should the executive leaders be so concerned with the people? Isn’t that what HR is for? This episode highlights why CEOs and other corporate leaders need to adopt a servant style of leadership and truly connect with their employees and team members.
Key Timestamps:
(00:00) - Introduction
(01:21) - Building Amazing Teams: Curiosity and Servant Leadership
(02:26) - The Concept of SKOR
(04:31) - Three Cs of Culture
(05:48) - Leadership and Culture
(07:12) - Challenges in Leadership
(08:35) - The Role of HR in Culture
(10:17) - Eddie's Entrepreneurial Journey
(13:59) - Servant Leadership
(27:45) - Spartan Endurance Racing
(32:06) - Sharing the Tacos
Key Topics Discussed:
Amazing Teams, Doug Dosberg, Una Japundza, Eddie Geller, SKOR, company culture, servant leadership, three Cs of culture, human resources
Mentions:
SKOR: https://www.getskor.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddiegeller/
Build Stronger, Connected, More Engaged Teams:
https://heytaco.com/
Use Coupon Code: AMAZINGTEAMS for 15% off for the first 3 months.
About the Amazing Teams Podcast:
We started this podcast because we love teams, especially amazing ones. Michael Jordan said it best, "Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships." This is what we're all about!
Our mission is to help others build amazing teams by having authentic conversations with remarkable people who are building amazing teams. We will explore the tactics, strategies, and frameworks that have helped them succeed.
The Amazing Teams Podcast is produced by HeyTaco. Please share your feedback with us here: https://amazingteams.com/feedback.
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Have you considered using improv techniques to improve communication within your organization? After this episode with Jordan Hirsch and Sarah Filman, you’ll want to! Sarah is the Founder of Playful Perspectives, and with experience as a product manager and certified coach, she brings unique insight to team building. Jordan is the Founder and CEO of FishTree who uses his experience in consulting, improv comedy, and public speaking to create “a world where fear doesn’t hold good people back.”
In this episode of the Amazing Teams Podcast, Sarah and Jordan take Doug and Una through a few improv games to highlight the differences between “yes, but…” and “yes, and…”, demonstrate what a supportive team looks like, and share with us how improv games can be applied in any organization. If you’re looking for ways to create a more supportive team environment, this episode will give you some great practical advice on how to get started.
Key Takeaways:
• How “Yes, but…” shuts people down, while “Yes, and…” can effectively build people up while improving on their ideas in a collaborative process. Jordan takes Dough and Una through a game to demonstrate how this works.• Why do people need encouragement, even when they get the answer wrong? Sarah uses a game called “Five Things” to show how good it feels when you have a team to cheer you on, even when the stakes are low and the wins are small.
• How we can bring an “improv mindset” into our leadership. And how this will create more adaptable, happy, and resilient teams.
Key Timestamps:
(00:00) - Introduction and Guest Welcome
(01:27) - Building Amazing Teams: Key Ingredients
(01:58) - The Power of Improv in Professional Development
(03:29) - Applied Improvisation: Skills for Life and Work
(07:03) - Interactive Improv Game: Five Things
(11:55) - The Value of Play and Laughter in Team Building
(13:02) - Practicing Spontaneity and Affirmations
(16:05) - Overcoming Objections to Playfulness
(17:12) - Validating Concerns and Building Trust
(18:27) - The Power of Connection Through Laughter
(20:11) - Improv Mindset in Leadership
(23:39) - Practical Exercises for Team Building
(25:41) - The Yes, And Technique
(30:36) - Sharing the TacosKey Topics Discussed:
Amazing Teams, Doug Dosberg, Una Japundza, Jordan Hirsch, Sarah Filman, improv games, learning development, Playful Perspectives, FishTree
Mentions:
Leading with an Improv Mindset: https://improvmindset.fun/
Jordan's Website: https://fishtree.co/about
Sarah's Website: https://www.playfulperspectives.com/
Jordan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanhirsch/
Sarah LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahfilman/Build Stronger, Connected, More Engaged Teams:
https://heytaco.com/
Use Coupon Code: AMAZINGTEAMS for 15% off for the first 3 months.About the Amazing Teams Podcast:
We started this podcast because we love teams, especially amazing ones. Michael Jordan said it best, "Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships." This is what we're all about!
Our mission is to help others build amazing teams by having authentic conversations with remarkable people who are building amazing teams. We will explore the tactics, strategies, and frameworks that have helped them succeed.
The Amazing Teams Podcast is produced by HeyTaco. Please share your feedback with us here:
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Is your organization keeping up with the company culture revolution? Aaron Schmookler is on a mission to engineer healthy company cultures through his company, YesWorks. As CEO of YesWorks, a consulting firm specializing in training and support for world class collaboration, Aaron, along with his team, work with a variety of organizations to improve their company culture. One of the ways this is done is through Teamification, building foundational structures in your business that support a healthy culture, providing experiential training for your team, and creating a culture of ongoing growth. Aaron’s mission to engineer healthier work culture continues in today’s episode!
Key Takeaways:
• Enrolling your employees in the mission, rather than forcing obedience is no simple task. No amount of traditional “leading” will get the team together and on board. Aaron has found the best way to get people enrolled is through the support of their peers.• “Yes and…” doesn’t mean you agree with what someone just said. It opens up opportunities to pass through, around, and over struggle in the pursuit of the company mission. This can be implemented through “teamification”, 3 phases of growing behavior and culture.
• Training ourselves to have healthy cultural behaviors in our companies is, surprisingly, a lot like training a dog. We have to learn the right behavior in a non-stressful situation, then a different situation, and eventually in the stressful environment.
Key Timestamps:
(00:00) - Introduction and Guest Welcome
(01:27) - What It Takes to Build an Amazing Team
(01:42) - The Role of a Culture Engineer
(04:02) - Aaron's Journey to Founding YesWorks
(05:41) - Outdoor Leadership and Lessons Learned
(10:51) - The Meaning Behind YesWorks
(13:36) - Teamification Explained
(17:13) - Common Organizational Problems and Solutions
(19:19) - Innovative Methods to Shape Company Culture
(25:54) - Sustaining Team Excellence
(30:48) - Sharing the TacosKey Topics Discussed:
Amazing Teams, Doug Dosberg, Una Japundza, Aaron Schmookler, leadership coaching, reframing, employee enrollment, employee complianceMentions:
YesWorks: https://www.theyesworks.com/about/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/schmookler/
Mentions: Start with WhyBuild Stronger, Connected, More Engaged Teams:
https://heytaco.com/Use Coupon Code: AMAZINGTEAMS for 15% off for the first 3 months.
About the Amazing Teams Podcast:
We started this podcast because we love teams, especially amazing ones. Michael Jordan said it best, "Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships." This is what we're all about!Our mission is to help others build amazing teams by having authentic conversations with remarkable people who are building amazing teams. We will explore the tactics, strategies, and frameworks that have helped them succeed.
The Amazing Teams Podcast is produced by HeyTaco. Please share your feedback with us here: https://amazingteams.com/feedback.
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Did you know that a die-hard baseball fan and CEO of a marketing agency took his team on a 24-hour marketing marathon to give back to the community? But here's the unexpected twist: this CEO's team-building strategy involves not just typical team retreats, but real-time, high-stakes client work! Jason Piasecki, the partner and CEO of Revel, brings his unique marketing expertise to his passion for team dynamics. With a love for baseball and a commitment to his company's values of humility, hunger, curiosity, and helpfulness, Jason's approach to team building is both engaging and impactful. His dedication to sharing weekly "Monday Morning Revelations" filled with baseball analogies and stories reflects his genuine and personable coaching style, making him a valuable voice in the realm of team building.
Key Takeaways:
Involving employees in the process of creating company values fosters a sense of ownership and alignment with the organization's mission. Employees who contribute to defining company values are more likely to embody them in their daily work and interactions. This collaborative approach promotes a unified team culture based on shared values and mutual understanding.Experiential team-building activities play a crucial role in fostering team engagement and cohesion. Through these activities, team members have the opportunity to bond, communicate effectively, and develop trust. Such experiences contribute to creating a positive and collaborative team dynamic.A strong employer brand showcases the company's values, culture, and commitment to employee growth and development. By focusing on employer branding, creative agencies can differentiate themselves in the competitive talent market.Key Timestamps:
(00:00:36) - The Misconception of Accountability(00:01:11) - Introduction to Revel and its Values(00:04:34) - Coaching vs. Managing(00:09:29) - Building Company Values and Culture(00:13:06) - Scaling Values as the Team Grows(00:15:37) - Giving Back to the Community(00:22:43) - Challenges of Building a Team(00:25:54) - Future Team Goals(00:29:20) - Sharing the TacosKey Topics Discussed:
Amazing Teams, Doug Dosberg, Una Japundza, Jason Piasecki, Company Values and Culture, Company Branding, EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System), Experiential Team Building, Giving Back to the Community,
Mentions:
Website: https://revelmarketing.com/jason-piasecki/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lumbertownbatcompany/
Mentions: EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System), Getting Things Done by David Allen, Atomic Habits by James Clear
Build Stronger, Connected, More Engaged Teams:
https://heytaco.com/
Use Coupon Code: AMAZINGTEAMS for 15% off for the first 3 months.
About the Amazing Teams Podcast:
We started this podcast because we love teams, especially amazing ones. Michael Jordan said it best, "Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships." This is what we're all about!
Our mission is to help others build amazing teams by having authentic conversations with remarkable people who are building amazing teams. We will explore the tactics, strategies, and frameworks that have helped them succeed.
The Amazing Teams Podcast is produced by HeyTaco. Please share your feedback with us here: https://amazingteams.com/feedback.
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This week we sat down for a chat with Steve Hedrick, Chairman, President, and CEO of AVN Corporation, right in the heart of South Charleston, West Virginia. Now, Steve's not your average CEO. He's got this cool mix of petrochemical savvy and military know-how from his West Point days. And boy, does he have some stories to share! From the importance of being understanding as a leader to the magic that happens when teamwork kicks in, Steve spills the beans on how he's been steering the AVN ship through some tough times. He's all about creating a workplace where everyone feels like they belong, where growth isn't just a buzzword, but a real, tangible thing. And let me tell you, we’ve got him talking about everything, from how AVN went from non-profit to for-profit, and the challenges of managing a distributed team. Plus, Steve's not shy about sharing some heartfelt tales from his own journey, giving us all a peek behind the curtain of leadership, shedding light on the tough decisions leaders often face and offering advice on building resilient, empathy-driven amazing teams.
Key Takeaways:
What is the importance of empathy in leadership roles, and how does it contribute to overcoming challenges with resilience and adaptability while leading through change?How can leaders manage a transition and sustain motivation while cultivating a culture of continuous improvement?What role does discipline play in Steve Hedrick's motivation and leadership approach?How does Steve Hedrick cultivate unity in diversity and collaboration within a geographically dispersed team?
Key Timestamps:(00:00) Introduction
(02:37) The Essence of Building Amazing Teams: Empathy and Leadership
(05:53) Empathy in Leadership: A Military Perspective
(09:57) The Evolution of AVN Corporation: From Nonprofit to Industry Leader
(13:52) The Challenges of Managing a Distributed Team
(24:06) Leading Through Hard Times
(27:39) Discipline Over Motivation
(29:12) Steve's Five Tacos of Appreciation
(32:34) Closing Thoughts
Connect with Steve:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-hedrick-b5398313/
Website: https://avncorp.com/
Build Stronger, Connected, More Engaged Teams:
https://heytaco.com/
Use Coupon Code: AMAZINGTEAMS for 15% off for the first 3 months.
About the Amazing Teams Podcast
We started this podcast because we love teams, especially amazing ones. Michael Jordan said it best, "Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships." This is what we're all about!
Our mission is to help others build amazing teams by having authentic conversations with remarkable people who are building amazing teams. We will explore the tactics, strategies, and frameworks that have helped them succeed.
The Amazing Teams Podcast is produced by HeyTaco. Please share your feedback with us here: https://amazingteams.com/feedback.
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Malia Shoji, the head volleyball coach at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, really dives deep into what it takes to build a successful team. She talks about how important it is to have strong connections among team members, a commitment to growth, and everyone being on the same page with their goals. Before taking on this role, Malia had a great run at Utah, where she helped lead the team to six NCAA Tournament appearances in a row. She played a big part in getting players recognized as First Team All-Americans and achieving high national rankings. In our chat, Malia shares her approach to creating a team culture that's not just about winning games, but also about having healthy relationships within the team. We get into the nitty-gritty of what it's like to start a new program, how team values evolve over time, and why things like being genuine, open, and dedicated are so crucial to a team's success. She tells some personal stories from her volleyball journey, highlighting how important it is to recognize and nurture both the skills players show on the court and the qualities they bring off the court. We also get into some coaching tactics, like how to give effective feedback and the impact that Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rules have on college sports. And to cap it all off, Malia shares some advice for parents who have kids in sports.
Key Takeaways & Timestamps:
What’s the importance of deep connection, commitment to growth and a clear mission within your team?What’re some practical strategies for embedding team values both on and off the court?How can you use the Development Pyramid to drive your team members through feedback and growth?Where does coaching volleyball align with building an amazing team?(00:23) Introduction
(02:00) The Core Values of a Successful Team
(05:57) Deep Connections: The Essence of Team Building
(07:56) Commitment in Action: Beyond Individual Needs
(09:43) Family Influence: Volleyball and Beyond
(14:07) On-Court vs. Off-Court: Balancing Skills and Team Chemistry
(16:01) Celebrating Growth: The Butterfly Moments
(19:10) Navigating Feedback and Recognition in Team Dynamics
(22:04) The Development Pyramid: A Framework for Growth
(25:16) Advice for Parents of Young Athletes
(26:47) Recruitment Philosophy and Building a Team Culture
(28:06) Navigating NIL and Athlete Retention in College Sports
(29:58) Personal Motivation and the Impact of Coaching
(33:46) Sharing the Tacos
Mentions:
The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday, Ego is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday, The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
Connect with Malia:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malia-shoji-77228513/
Build Stronger, Connected, More Engaged Teams:
https://heytaco.com/
Use Coupon Code: AMAZINGTEAMS for 15% off for the first 3 months.
About the Amazing Teams Podcast
We started this podcast because we love teams, especially amazing ones. Michael Jordan said it best, "Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships." This is what we're all about!
Our mission is to help others build amazing teams by having authentic conversations with remarkable people who are building amazing teams. We will explore the tactics, strategies, and frameworks that have helped them succeed.
The Amazing Teams Podcast is produced by HeyTaco. Please share your feedback with us here: https://amazingteams.com/feedback.
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Hey friends! Recently, we had the pleasure of chatting with Lloyd Fobi, a senior technology leader and former soccer coach. Lloyd brings a wealth of insight on building empathy and trust within teams. We kick things off talking about Lloyd's leadership approach - caring for people while still holding them to high standards. He shares a story from his first week leading a new team, using engaging questions to break down assumptions and get to know them as human beings. The heart of our conversation explores how to practically build empathy on a daily basis. Lloyd stresses understanding each person's strengths so you can elevate them, not trying to change people to fit some predefined box. We also discuss the importance of selflessness and serving your team, whether through difficult conversations or even just taking support calls to understand people's day-to-day reality. Other gems Lloyd shares: looking for teammates based on how they treat each other rather than pure skill, the power of hope and trust emerging through shared hardship, and how to keep showing appreciation after the honeymoon phase ends. If you lead people, or simply want to lead with more empathy, don't miss this chat!
“Practicing empathy does more for the person giving than the person receiving, which is a strikingly interesting feeling to go through.” - Lloyd Fobi
Key Takeaways:
(00:00:57) - Introduction and Background to Llyod Fobi
(00:01:49) - Building Amazing Teams through Empathy and Care
(00:04:51) - Building Trust in a New Environment
(00:09:48) - Lloyd's Transformation of His Coaching Philosophy
(00:14:29) - Bringing the Intensity of the Sports World to the Business World
(00:16:46) - Selflessness and Team Success
(00:18:22) - Motivation and Continuous Improvement
(00:22:13) - Managing Weaknesses and Leveraging Strengths
(00:27:27) - The Power of Empathy and Giving
(00:29:11) - Giving Tacos
(00:35:13) - Conclusion and GratitudeMentions:
Read the book Tribal Leadership to learn about the five stages of team development and how to build an amazing team.Check out the book Legacy by Steve Kerr to understand the principles of building a successful team, as exemplified by the All Blacks.Consider reading the book The Go-Giver for insights on the principles that make a great leader and team member.Connect with Lloyd:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lloyd-fobi/
Build Stronger, Connected, More Engaged Teams:
Start now at https://heytaco.com/
Use Coupon Code: AMAZINGTEAMS for 15% off for the first 3 months.
About the Amazing Teams Podcast
We started this podcast because we love teams, especially amazing ones. Michael Jordan said it best, "Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships." This is what we're all about!
Our mission is to help others build amazing teams by having authentic conversations with remarkable people who are building amazing teams. We will explore the tactics, strategies, and frameworks that have helped them succeed.
The Amazing Teams Podcast is produced by HeyTaco. Please share your feedback with us here: https://amazingteams.com/feedback. -
Liz is the head of Wheeling Country Day School, an independent private school in Wheeling, West Virginia, established in 1929, almost 100 years ago. She’s also the founder of EDGE. which is a virtual and campus based tutoring center that specializes in helping students aged 4 to 24 with language-based learning differences. She also was the coxswain for the rowing team at Princeton University.
Key Takeaways:
Know how to motivate your team to perform beyond their capabilitiesAwareness of your full responsibility as a leaderGood communication at all levels to help the business stay on courseHow to handle failure and the psychological effectsThe value of authenticity in building relationshipsBeing intentional about what to focus on and spend your timeCreating opportunities and taking the responsibilityWhy you should acknowledge the wins and celebrate the teamTactics to avoid burnoutHow to empower your team to be resourcefulConnect with Elizabeth Hofreuter:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethhofreuter/
Website: https://www.wcdsedu.com/
Build Stronger, Connected, More Engaged Teams:
https://heytaco.com/
Use Coupon Code: AMAZINGTEAMS for 15% off for the first 3 months.
About the Amazing Teams Podcast:
We started this podcast because we love teams, especially amazing ones. Michael Jordan said it best, "Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships." This is what we're all about!
Our mission is to help others build amazing teams by having authentic conversations with remarkable people who are building amazing teams. We will explore the tactics, strategies, and frameworks that have helped them succeed.
The Amazing Teams Podcast is produced by HeyTaco. Please share your feedback with us here: https://amazingteams.com/feedback. -
Brad Williams is the CEO and Co-Founder of WebDevStudios, a WordPress website design and development agency. His company of over 40 people has done work for Microsoft, Campbell’s Soup Company, Starbucks, and so many more. Work like this can only be done with amazing teams, so listen in as Brad shares how they’ve accomplished this while maintaining a remote work model from the very beginning. In the modern world of distributed work places, this episode is a must-listen!
Key Takeaways:
Why it’s important to give back and how your team can benefit.How to build a company culture without a water cooler.How team relationships affect client relationships.What not to overlook when identifying and mitigating team conflict.When and how to engage with and listen to your team.Why you shouldn’t take yourself too seriously.What Brad implements from his time in the Marines (and what he doesn’t).Mentions:
S’Up: https://sup2.playplay.io/
Jackbox.tv: https://jackbox.tv/
Connect with Brad:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamsba/
Website: https://webdevstudios.com/
About the Amazing Teams Podcast
We started this podcast because we love teams, especially amazing ones. Michael Jordan said it best, "Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships." This is what we're all about!
Our mission is to help others build amazing teams by having authentic conversations with remarkable people who are building amazing teams. We will explore the tactics, strategies, and frameworks that have helped them succeed.
The Amazing Teams Podcast is produced by HeyTaco. Please share your feedback with us here: https://amazingteams.com/feedback.
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Chris Coffey is the Head of Engineering at CollegeVine, which is a networking platform for connecting high school students with colleges and advisors. After working as a software engineer, Chris transitioned into management where he has learned what it takes to build an amazing team. Today, we’ll hear how Chris uses the ‘working with me document’ to explain his values and mental models, encourages small wins to keep his team motivated, and cultivates an ownership mindset within his team.
How to transition from a technical to a managerial role.Leveraging a ‘working with me’ document to set expectations for how your team can work with you.Setting up and utilizing feedback loops in organizations.How to give feedback in a remote environment.Cultivating an ownership mindset is a learned skill.The wonders of quick wins in building newly formed teams.Starting an open-door quitting policy and how it works.
Key Takeaways:Mentions
Work with Me Document: https://www.foldl.io/posts/my_readme/
Connect with Chris
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismcoffey/
Team Canopy: https://www.teamcanopy.com/
CollegeVine: https://www.collegevine.com/About the Amazing Teams Podcast
We started this podcast because we love teams, especially amazing ones. Michael Jordan said it best, "Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships." This is what we're all about!
Our mission is to help others build amazing teams by having authentic conversations with remarkable people who are building amazing teams. We will explore the tactics, strategies, and frameworks that have helped them succeed.
The Amazing Teams Podcast is produced by HeyTaco. Please share your feedback with us here: https://amazingteams.com/feedback. -
Katie Regan is a seasoned communications professional with over 15 years of experience in business, PR, crisis management, brand, and change communication. As the founder and CEO of the Kirkpatrick Group, she leads a small but powerful team of remote communication experts, specializing in reputation and crisis management for Fortune 500 companies, higher education, and the industrial sector. With a core team of 14, all female professionals, Katie's team-centric approach is rooted in her early experiences, including playing on the women's soccer team at Robert Morris University, shaping her philosophy of achieving common goals through collaboration and mutual support. Throughout her career, she has been a part of exceptional teams, emphasizing shared vision, collaboration, and a culture of appreciation.
Key Takeaways
Transition from Managing to Leading:
Shift from project management to leading people for a more impactful leadership style.Focusing on creating an environment that fosters team collaboration and growth.Effective Communication in Team Decisions:
Honesty is the best policy; own up to errors and communicate transparently with the team.Communicate decisions and opportunities in a way that minimizes surprises and fosters understanding.Trial Periods for New Hires:
Three-month trial periods allow both the employer and employee to assess the fit and mitigate risks.Building Trust and Empowering Team Members:
Trust team members with tasks traditionally handled by the leader.Provide training and empowerment to build a more independent and capable team.Expressing Gratitude:
Regularly acknowledging and appreciating team members' contributions builds a positive and motivated work environment.Connect with Katie
Katie Regan on LinkedIn
Kirkpatrick Group
About the Amazing Teams Podcast
We started this podcast because we love teams, especially amazing ones. Michael Jordan said it best, "Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships." This is what we're all about!
Our mission is to help others build amazing teams by having authentic conversations with remarkable people who are building amazing teams. We will explore the tactics, strategies, and frameworks that have helped them succeed.
The Amazing Teams Podcast is produced by HeyTaco. Please share your feedback with us here: https://amazingteams.com/feedback.
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Diana Futrovshy is the Managing Director at CRA Admired Leadership. She advises clients on how to engage employees, generate organizational alignment, and build leadership credibility. She has expertise in designing strategic messages, developing communication strategies, and executing large-scale change initiatives. Diana also has experience in leading CRA’s proprietary cascade process, a series of carefully orchestrated team conversations that foster employee understanding of business priorities and generate alignment among all levels of the organization.
In this episode, Diana shares her views on what constitutes an exceptional team, emphasizing that it goes beyond having a group of skilled individuals. We delve into the concept of Player-Led Teams, which are often more successful than hierarchical teams because they promote leadership among all members and prioritize collaboration rather than top-down control. Diana shares some insights on how teams can become more player-led.
Additionally, we explore the idea of Admired Leadership, which involves identifying the behaviors of successful leaders and teaching them to others.
Connect with Diana
Diana Futrovshy on LinkedIn
About the Amazing Teams Podcast
We started this podcast because we love teams, especially amazing ones. Michael Jordan said it best, "Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships." This is what we're all about!
Our mission is to help others build amazing teams by having authentic conversations with remarkable people who are building amazing teams. We will explore the tactics, strategies, and frameworks that have helped them succeed.
The Amazing Teams Podcast is produced by HeyTaco. Please share your feedback with us here: https://amazingteams.com/feedback. - Daha fazla göster
