
Lead the Team (Top 2% of Podcasts)
476 episodes — Page 6 of 10

Ep 226Chris Brogan - Endure with Heart-Powered Leadership - NYT Bestselling Author
Your next email should be a “love letter”.My friend and NYT bestselling author, Chris Brogan, explains how this simple mindset shift is the pathway to more effective and successful communication for leaders and even entire organizations.It changes everything.There’s a catastrophic communication breakdown between companies and customers; and equally bosses and employees. It’s getting worse with AI. The world needs more human, heart-powered communication and leaders that step up and adopt this perspective and skill will endure.In this jam-packed interview he shares the secrets he’s learned since becoming one of the world’s top bloggers (since 1980 and also writing a weekly newsletter that’s at the core of much of his success).Every leader should hear this interview because it will teach you to be more human and genuine in your communication. This helps you build trust at deeper levels and builds a stronger workforce.Here’s a bit more of Chris’s street cred:New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of 10 books and counting and professional public speaker with over 1000 speeches delivered across 14 countries.Appfire where he’s Chief of Staff to the CEO.Host of the Backpack Show, - the LIVE video TV show.CEO of his own company (Owner Media). One the top bloggers in the world (He’s been at it since 1998).Wrote the Foreword to my book, The QUIT Alternative: The Blueprint for Creating the Job You Love…WITHOUT Quitting.LinkedIn Profile https://linkedin.com/in/cbroganCompany Link: https://appfire.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:The power of writing a personal newsletter every week.What happens for your team when you communicate from the heart.The 3-step process that makes your communication powerful every time.The question you should ask before sending an email.What big organizations need to learn from small businesses.“Scaling Intimacy” - Bringing authenticity to your leadership in a bigger way.His world-renowned 3 Words Exercise that’s used by many successful leaders.Why you shouldn’t run your team “like a family”.Why leadership is options management.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 225How a 12-Year Old Tripled Sales with This Strategy
Get ready for a delightful dose of wisdom that transcends the humble lemonade stand.My daughter is a seasoned lemonade stand entrepreneur, but in this interview, she shares her insights about the single afternoon that was more successful than ALL the other times combined!You’ll discover the one pivotal change she made that made it more fun and significantly boosted her sales. Turns out, we can apply this to our work and personal life!-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 224Even Leaders can Learn to Enjoy the Moment, Global COO - Jon Ragan, ThreeSixty Group
Leaders, you can learn to enjoy the moment.It doesn’t always come naturally for multi-tasking leaders. There always seems to be another opportunity to explore or a “fire to fight”. But, you miss too much when you’re always on the move versus enjoying the moment with your team, friends, or family.That’s where this powerful message from Global COO, Jon Ragan at ThreeSixty Group comes in. He shares an impactful personal story of realizing the importance of presence and enjoying the moment even under the most difficult circumstances.You can immediately apply this lesson to your professional and personal life to make them more meaningful, purposeful, and fun.In case you’re not familiar with it, ThreeSixty Group owns iconic brands including FAO Schwarz, Sharper Image, Wembley, and Vornado sold in over 90,000 retail locations around the world.Jon also has expertise in driving enterprise growth and transformation at Fortune 500 companies including General Electric, Grainger, and Weyerhaeuser.LinkedIn Profile http://www.linkedin.com/in/jonraganCompany Link: https://www.thethreesixtygroup.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:Beekeeping and Boy Scouts - The Powerful Lesson he Learned.Advice He’d Give his Younger Self.The Big Benefit of Having a Hobby.What the Enneagram Revealed.A Strategy to Maintain Work-life Balance.The Unexpected Twist that Led to his Success.How Leadership Starts with his Onboarding Strategy.The Worst Leadership Advice he’s Heard.How you Discover the “Sweet Spot” of your Personal Leadership. -----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 223Ultimate Catalyst for Great Leadership, COO and EVP at Juniper Networks, Manoj Leelanivas
To Be Great, You Need Great Mentors.Avoid using your time, energy, and resources “reinventing the wheel”.There’s someone that’s been there and succeeded. It's up to you to identify who to ask for feedback then be open to what’s said.That’s mentorship, you’re going to take a lot from this powerful interview with COO and Executive Vice President at Juniper Networks, Manoj Leelanivas.He shares a poignant story of the impact of mentorship in his own life and reveals his personal mentorship playbook that ALL professionals can benefit from…. whether your a mentor, mentee or both!If you don’t know Manoj he’s responsible for all products, engineering, and cloud operations. He also oversees all marketing to align products with Juniper's go-to-market strategy and execution.Juniper has over 9,000 employees in 50 countries and nearly $5 billion in revenue.He’s a leader within the technology industry and the majority of his years of intellectual curiosity and professional leadership have been dedicated to Juniper’s vision of connecting everything and empowering everyone.With over 30 years of expertise in the technology industry, Manoj has experienced first-hand how being a mentor and mentee can play a pivotal role in career success. LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/mleelanivasCompany Link: https://www.juniper.net/us/en.htmlWhat You’ll Discover in this Episode:What he’s Learned as a Podcasting Executive.What renowned Cisco CEO, John Morgridge, taught him about work-life balance.How to get your team to do their best work.His three-step approach to mentorship.Why there’s a correlation between mentoring and job satisfaction.How great mentorship impacted his life.Advice for young professionals looking for mentors.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 222Seize the Lead over AI's Speed - Rackspace CTO, Srini Koushik
Draw inspiration from Srini Koushik, CTO of Rackspace, who shares the special trait that stands out as the key to being a successful AI leader. AI is transforming our world at a rapid pace, yet too many leaders are missing the vital leadership characteristics to lead in this dynamic environment.With over 36 years of experience in the tech world including executive roles at Hewlett Packard Enterprises, Nationwide, Magellan, and IBM, it’s been instrumental to his success and he’s fostered it in thousands of his employees.Srini is also the Founder and Global Leader of Foundry for AI by Rackspace (FAIR). Rackspace is one of the world's leading cloud companies.LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/srinikoushikCompany Link: https://www.rackspace.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:Srini’s favorite leadership story.How do we all live symbiotically with AI?What Maslow’s Hierarchy teaches us about AI.The warning from NAFTA.How leaders prepare for the future of AI.A strategy to become a life-long learner.How to use a “think break” to power your day.What it was like immigrating to the US at 21.The importance of being an optimistic leader.Why photography is a great leadership teacher.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 221Why Leaders Can Always Grow from Failure, CMO Service Express, Josh Leatherman
“Not Failing” is worse than failing.Josh Leatherman, Chief Marketing Officer Service Express, shares a powerful strategy to turn failure into success without harming your business or career. While failure may slow you down and make you doubt yourself, avoiding it altogether is even worse. Embrace failure as a chance to grow and seize new opportunities. Thanks to Josh's advice, you can have the best of both worlds and turn failures into stepping stones towards success.Josh has an amazing track record of success, partnering with his executive team to grow the company from $30 million in annual revenue to over $300 million. He’s grown the Marketing department from 2 people to over 100 during his time at Service Express by focusing on performance. He’s been featured in AdAge, is a graduate and now Fellow of The Marketing Academy and was recently named a 101 Top B2B Marketing Influencer by CMO Huddles.LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshualeatherman/Company Link: https://www.serviceexpress.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:A strategy to teach your team to fail WITHOUT making a major mistake.Tiny test, tremendous triumph: A case study.The $300MM insurgent company: A revenue success story.How Executives can lead on social media and drive change.How his company fosters double digit growth every year.What leaders need to do to get a seat at the table.The strategy that makes his team flourish.The twist in his career that accelerated his growth.Quotes:"Forget the mistake, remember the lesson.”“Your compensation is not correlated to how hard you work, it’s correlated to how hard you are to replace.”-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 220Fire the “Yes-Man” - President of SeatGeek, Danielle du Toit
Should you fire someone who always agrees with you?A strong, supportive team may seem appealing, but there’s a destructive risk when you dig deeper… Blind Consensus.True leaders empower feedback with constructive disagreement and debate, especially surrounding their own ideas. This isn’t easy because it requires reducing your ego and truly listening.Danielle du Toit is the President of SeatGeek’s Enterprise business and shares her strategy for creating a powerful feedback mechanism and how it’s strengthened her team to achieve greatness.She joined SeatGeek at the start of 2019 at the launch of its enterprise business and has grown SeatGeek’s client roster to hundreds of global organizations at the league and team level across the NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, English Premier League, golf, tennis, motorsports, and more.SeatGeek was built in 2009 as the only mobile ticketing marketplace created with fan experience top of mind. Prior to SeatGeek, Danielle held similar roles in fast-paced growth businesses at Salesforce, Cheetah Digital, Bullhorn, and ExactTarget. She has also been recognized as a Sports Business Journal “Game Changer” and a Notable Woman in Sports by Crain’s NY.A native Zimbabwean, she earned a Physics and Computer Science degree from Rhodes University in South Africa.https://powertofly.com/up/danielle-du-toit-s-beliefs-on-work-experienceLinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-du-toit-95a68b3/Company Link: https://seatgeek.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:What happened that transformed her leadership approach forever.How the "'Flowers Market' strategy helped her become a better leader.A strategy to get helpful feedback from your team. How crossing borders, builds leaders: The profound lessons of leadership across cultures.Advice for empowering female leaders and breaking barriers. -----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 219Why "Fake it Till You Make" Fails Leaders - CMO, Michelle Chiantera of Alludo
One question revealed her leadership style.It weakens your impact when you “perform” or “fake it til you make it” as a leader. Even if you’ve pulled it off for a while, it eventually catches up with you and decreases your motivation leading to burnout. Your career is a life-long journey and it’s vital to play the long game!Michelle Chiantera is Chief Marketing Officer at Alludo and shares the inspiring moment she discoverd her authentic leadership style and the insightful question she asked that helped her accelerate her career to the executive ranks.Alludo is a global technology company with 2.5 million customers based in Ottawa, ON that includes Parallels®, CorelDRAW®, MindManager®, and WinZip®. Michelle has had a 25-year career and also served as a senior leader at CISCO and serves on the board of Building Minds in South Sudan (BMISS) and as the Fundraising Chair (June 2020-present). As part of the BMISS work, Michelle funds a woman-owned business in the village of Mayen-Abun in Twic State, South Sudan. Through hard work and the BMISS investment, Michelle is incredibly proud that the business owner was able to send her first child to a university in Egypt.LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellechiantera/Company Link: https://www.alludo.com/en/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:What happened when she funded a woman-owned business in South Sudan.Tribal Beer?What reveals your personal leadership style.The mantra that’s guided her career.What it's like being the first person in your family to go to college.When losing her dream job because of her biggest opportunity.The mistake people make when asking for help.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 218She Leads in the Dangerous Wilderness - Alaskan Guide, Mareth Griffith
Get inspired by our Wilderness Guide, Mareth Griffith, who led us on an epic adventure in the Alaskan Wild. You’ll discover her amazing stories and insights for leading your team through even the most dangerous situations and conditions.She’s worked on expedition cruise ships since 2015, leading adventurous souls on epic quests to seek out glaciers, bears, and whales in the wilds of coastal Alaska and beyond. In her fifteen years as an Alaska naturalist, she’s worked for remote lodges inside Kenai Fjords National Park, led winter sea kayaking trips in Alaskan fjords, and worked as a tour guide for a marine mammal rehabilitation center. Outside of Alaska, Mareth has guided in Antarctica, Mexico, Hawaii and Northern Ireland—where her nearest neighbors included two thousand puffins and the ghost of a spectral black horse.Mareth graduated with a degree in music from Smith College, and worked as a theatrical sound technician on the East Coast for two years before returning to Alaska for good. She holds certifications as a Wilderness First Responder, ACA coastal kayak guide, and is a Coast-Guard-licensed boat captain. Mareth plays violin and guitar, and her writing has been published in literary journals and through Parvus Press. When she’s not in the field, Mareth lives in an off-grid cabin surrounded by blueberry bushes in the woods outside of Seward, Alaska.LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/mareth-griffith-b1239715/Company Link:https://uncruise.com/https://www.facebook.com/mareth.griffith?mibextid=LQQJ4d What You’ll Discover in this Episode:The secret to guiding a thrilling Alaskan trip (regardless of age or ability).Crucial leadership behaviors in the face of danger: A guide's perspective.Taming guests’ fear and anxiety in the Alaskan wilderness.Crafting an unforgettable experience: The storytelling secrets of great guides.Face-to-face with a bear: How to react and prevail in the wilderness.The hardest lesson she learned as a guide.A time her mettle was tested when leading a glacier trek.Why she chose the life of a wilderness guide.What it’s like living off the grid in Alaskan winters!-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 217100,000 Lives Saved by He and his Team; But No One Knows their Name - Two-Star Admiral, Scott Giberson (Ret)
He and his Team Saved 100,000+ Lives and No One Knows their Name.Get inspired by Two-Star Admiral Scott Giberson (Ret), who led and won with the Commissioned Corps of the US Public Health Service versus one of the nastiest infectious diseases in history (Ebola).You'll hear the key lessons learned of what it takes to lead a team against a raging infectious disease breakout, including communicating with the most powerful leaders in the world like the President of the United States.The story is so remarkable that it inspired a documentary, "The Invisible Corps" that was just released by PBS!Scott served as a 2-star Rear Admiral, Deputy U.S. Surgeon General, Assistant U.S. Surgeon General, and Commander, Commissioned Corps Ebola Response West Africa.Check it out!LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-giberson-71111556/Company Link: https://ami.health/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:The Invisible Corp that won the war against Ebola (and what he learned as their leader).What leader can do to “decomplexify” in a crisis.The critical phone call with President Obama.The advice he’d give his younger self today.The twist in his career that led to his growth.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 216Wrinkle Free Leaders - President, Merz Aesthetics NA Patrick Urban
Patrick Urban, President of Merz Aesthetics, shares the remarkable role that toxins, injectables, and fillers play in today's Zoom calls and Town Halls, backed by the surge of the "Zoom Boom" within the Aesthetics industry.Get inspired by Patrick's transformative leadership journey and the empowering mission that drives their organization. He shatters so many misconceptions (and many that I had) that advanced skin-care is exclusively for celebrities and influencers. LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-urban-78821112/Company Link: http://merzaesthetics.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:His leadership philosophy distilled into one saying.Why he grounds his career in 'digging in'.The one skin-care hack that tops them all.Debunking aesthetic industry misconceptions.Why the ‘Zoom Boom” accelerated the aesthetics industry.Navigating uncertainty: Leading with clarity when the path fades.Why he prioritizes life balance versus work-life balance.What he does to trust his gut.Why he recommends every leader study psychology. The book fueling Patrick's leadership inspiration.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 215Legendary CEO Bob Nardelli of Home Depot, Chrysler, and GE Power System - The One Skill Every Leader Needs to Succeed
Legendary CEO of Home Depot, GE Power System, and Chrysler, Bob Nardelli says there's one skill every leader needs to succeed.Discover the one thing he’s sought to foster in himself in his 53-year career and also instill in this team. Once you develop it, you can accelerate your results in any company and any industry.Bob Nardelli is widely recognized as one of the best operating executives in the world with 52 years of experience leading major public corporations and private equity groups.During his nearly 30-year tenure at the General Electric Co (GE), he quadrupled operating profits for GE Power Systems from $5B to $20B. As the Chairman and CEO, he then doubled the size of The Home Depot from $45B to $91B and helped save Chrysler Corp during the financial institution meltdown.His new firm, XLR-8, LLC, Investment & Advisory Co., helps companies identify weaknesses and improve performance and clients includes a number of Fortune 500 companies and privately held businessesDue to his support and commitment to veterans he’s received the US Secretary of Defense Freedom Award twice.LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobnardelli/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:The greatest compliment Jack Welch ever paid him. The leadership skill behind his success as CEO of 3 iconic companies. Unveiling the key to opening 1000 Home Depot stores (one every 48 hours). The secret to staying sharp at 75 while still traveling 200 days a year. Bob's tip for accelerated learning in a new CEO role. The trust-building hack he used with his team. The inverted triangle of accountability. Lessons learned from negotiating with one of the largest unions in the world. Rescuing Chrysler from financial meltdown.How to make a gut-wrenching decision. The Aha Moment he had during a 6-Hour testimony in front of Congress. How "lateral promotions" became his key to career advancement. Strategic vs. Tactical: When to dive into the details. The story behind hiring 35,000 veterans at Home Depot.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 214This Word Turned Adversity into Opportunity - Zscaler Executive Kavitha Mariappan
A word turned her adversity to opportunity. Fuel your motivation with Kavitha Mariappan’s positive leadership message. She shares the word that motivated her to tackle big challenges in her career and as she says “turn adversity into opportunity and bring others along too.”She is the Executive Vice President of Customer Experience and Transformation and the DEI Executive Sponsor at Zscaler. She has extensive experience leading organizations through transformational change, innovation and growth. She also speaks to many executives and board members on the criticality and benefits of having a strong cyber risk strategy and positioning.She previously was a senior leader with Split, Databricks, Riverbed Technologies, and Cisco.LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/kmariappan/Company Link: https://www.zscaler.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:A strategy to create opportunity from adversity.How parenting has impacted her leadership journey.The essential question leaders must ask about cybersecurity.The alarming impact of deep fakes on companies: A startling example.Empowering your team: A proven strategy to instill accountability.What she’s learned as a DEI Executive Sponsor.What employee resource groups can do for your organization.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 213She Became CMO in Record Time with One Strategy - Kaycee Kalpin of Premier Inc
You can quickly make up for years of experience.Get inspired by Kaycee Kalpin, Chief Marketing Officer for Premier Inc, where she shares her story of accelerating from Manager to CMO in just 8 years. Some thought she was too young to become an executive, but she relied on one strategy to make up for multiple decades of experience that many of her coworkers had.Now Kaycee’s even hand picked a team of over 50 marketing professionals.Before joining Premier Inc, she spent over a decade in Washington, D.C. There she grew her health tech and marketing experience as a leader with the American College of Cardiology. She led the development of a suite of digital apps that empower cardiovascular patients to take control of their health.Kaycee’s a graduate of Florida State University with a MBA from American University.Premier Inc is a leading healthcare improvement company headquartered in Charlotte, NC. They work with more than 4,000 U.S. hospitals and health systems, approximately 175,000 other providers and organizations, and other industry stakeholders to co-develop solutions that support high-quality, efficient and sustainable care delivery models. They’ve also been named one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies® 14 years in a row, LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaycee-kalpin-b928bb33/Company Link: https://www.premierinc.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:A tip for fast-tracking your way to executive leadership.Why becoming the note-taker can lead to becoming decision-maker.The key trait she'd instill in every employee.Powerful advice she’d give her younger self today.The art of storytelling: Lesson from from the C-Suite.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 212Her Two Words Saved a Company - CEO Amy Amick of Aspirion
Two words saved an entire company.Discover how CEO Amy Amick used a simple catch phrase to transform a company that was losing customers and money into one that leads the industry. She distilled her vision into two words that inspired employees from the corner office to the front lines. You’ll also learn a great strategy to clarify and communicate your own leadership in a powerful way.Amy is the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer at Aspirion. She’s served in the healthcare technology industry for almost 30 years and is fiercely committed to being a force that makes healthcare BETTER. For over two decades, Aspirion has helped healthcare providers maximize their hospital revenue recovery by focusing on their most challenging reimbursements.Amy also served as President and Chief Executive Officer at SPH Analytics, President at MedAssets / nThrive, and held senior leader positions with Allscripts, Microsoft, and M*Modal. She also serves as an Independent Director and Board Member at Experity and Pendrick Healthcare Partners.LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-amick-5945255/Company Link: http://www.aspirion.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:The crucial first step: What she prioritizes in her first week on the job.The benefits of taking a long-term approach to your career.Her proven method for balancing work and life.Prioritizing the essentials: Why leading with 'What Matters Most' is critical.What she does to boost productivity.The power of visuals and narrative: How leaders can communicate effectively.How leaders should use imagery and storytelling to communicate.The moment she found her authentic leadership style.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 211She had a Meteoric Rise from Intern to CEO in Under a Decade - CEO of The Entrepreneur's Source, Marissa Frois
Picture this: a brand-new intern walks in the doors of a small business dreaming of one day becoming a CEO. Fast forward a few years, and she not only achieves her goal but surpasses it, becoming the fearless leader of The Entrepreneur's Source. Meet Marissa Frois, the unstoppable force behind a meteoric rise from intern to CEO in under a decade.Marissa is now CEO of The Entrepreneur's Source.The Entrepreneur's Source is a 35-year old company that provides personalized coaching for people looking to transition out of their current career and find a path to self-sufficiency. The Entrepreneur's Source helps individuals achieve their Income, Lifestyle, Wealth, and Equity goals through Career Ownership. LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/mfrois/Company Link: https://entrepreneurssource.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:The art of open-ended questions: How they can help you transform your leadership style.Why you must invest in your own development (and not wait on your company).From backstage to center stage: Tips for making the shift to CEO.Embracing failure: How learning from your mistakes can help you achieve your goals faster.Avoiding burnout: Strategies for maintaining entrepreneurial wellness and wellbeing.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 210Why The #1 Ranked Caribbean Resort Stays at the Top, Founder and Managing Partner of Champagne Hospitality Denise Dupré
Discover the Reason Why #1 Best Resort in the Caribbean and France Stays at the Top!Get inspired by Denise Dupré, Founder and Managing Partner of Champagne Hospitality, who shares the one strategy she prioritizes to stay at the top of the resort and wine rankings.She leads a hotel design and development company with award-winning properties in the Champagne and Burgundy regions of France, and in St. Barthelemy, in the Caribbean, and Couture Harvest, a portfolio of vineyards that are pioneering organic and biodynamic viticulture and innovative techniques like under sea aging, and experimental gold and titanium barrels, to produce award winning wines.Condé Nast recognized the Royal Champagne as the Best Resort in France and has repeatedly named Le Barthélemy the Best Resort in the Caribbean, and both hotels have been ranked among the Best Resorts in the World.She’s shaped generations of industry leaders as an educator at the world’s leading hospitality schools including Cornell and Boston University, and in a graduate program at Harvard University.She’s also a philanthropist dedicated to making a positive impact and pushing boundaries and improving education, sustainability, and more. LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisedupre/Company Link: https://www.champagnehospitality.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:Award-winning wines with sea aging and experimental gold and titanium barrels.Her secret to achieving the Top Resort in France and the Caribbean. What her first job picking up cigarette butts taught her about leadership.How resorts will be different in the next 5 years.The thing a smaller resort can do to beat out big chain resorts.Using a “Glory Spiral” to motivate your team and handle disgruntled customers.The moment her mettle was tested.How she uses a failure to achieve success and enable others.What she’s learning teaching at Harvard.The “Make It Pop” leadership strategy.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 209Total Wine CEO Shares Secret to Growth and Success - Troy Rice
Total Wine & More has grown into the country‘s largest independent retailer of fine wine. CEO Troy Rice shares the core trait he seeks to instill in every employee and that he’s also seen emulated by his personal mentors, legendary Home Depot Founders Bernie Marcus and Arthur Blank.Once you hear Troy’s story, you’ll double down to make sure to foster this key trait in yourself and your team. He shares how it improves productivity, process, and the customer experience!𝐓𝐨𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐢𝐧𝐞 & 𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐀𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚‘𝐬 𝐖𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐞®—was founded in 1991 when brothers David and Robert Trone opened their first wine store in Delaware. Now they’ve grown to 249 stores across 27 states and continue to open on average 15 stores each year!Their typical store carries more than 8,000 world-class wines from every wine-producing region in the world. In addition, Total Wine & More carries more than 2,500 beers, from America‘s most popular beers to hard-to-find microbrews and imports, and more than 3,000 different spirits from every price range and category. Troy joined them in 2017 as Chief Stores Officer. During his tenure, he led the Stores Organization to achieve significant milestones, including:Leading the stores team through the pandemic. Rapidly innovating processes to enable the digital business. Developing talent to fuel growth. Supporting real estate initiatives with new stores and an extensive modernization plan. Driving laser focus on the customer experience.Prior to joining Total Wine, Troy held senior leadership positions with Office Depot, Toys R Us and The Home Depot. At Office Depot, as COO and President of Retail he led the retail merger of Office Depot and Office Max. At Toys R Us, as EVP of Stores and Services he led their omni-channel efforts and was an early adopter of many of the services retailers practice today. Troy spent 16 years with The Home Depot beginning as a manager trainee when they had 135 stores and he held roles of increasing responsibility culminating with the role of Division President, Northern Division with over 600 stores and $24B in revenue. Troy grew up in retail working at his father’s grocery store where the values of customer service, teamwork, and work ethic were instilled in him at an early age.LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/troy-rice-b78aaa1/Company Link: https://www.totalwine.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:From railroad to retail executive: An inspiring career journey.A deeper look at why retail has him hooked for life.Inside the first Home Depot Leadership Program: A career-changing experience.Leadership lessons from legends: Learning from Bernie Marcus and Arthur Blank (Founders of Home Depot).The personal motto that guided his career success.A work-life balance strategy.Parenting and business: When to talk to your children about your career.Pandemic pivot: How Total Wine's strategic shift led to accelerated success.What beverage should you serve at a Board dinner?Who founded the Cosmo?-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 208He Grew It From $3MM to $300MM - President and CEO, Ron Alvesteffer of Service Express
He grew it from $3MM to $300MM.Powerful interview from Ron Alvesteffer, President & CEO at Service Express, who shares his trusted strategy to develop and retain high-performing leaders. He’s relied on this approach to achieve the President and CEO role and how he uses it as the primary way to motivate his employees. It’s been particularly effective as he grew his company of 15 to 1000 global employees.You won’t want to miss it!Service Express is an industry-leading data center solutions provider specializing in multi vendor maintenance, hybrid cloud, and managed infrastructure services. They have the highest Net Promoter Score in the World in the industry.During his 25 years of ongoing leadership at Service Express, he expanded the company's international footprint through nine acquisitions and turned a US team of 15 into a global team of over 1,000. Ron has helped grow the company's revenue from $3 million to $300 million and is on track to achieve its goal of $500 million in 2025.LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronalvesteffer/Company Link: https://www.serviceexpress.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:Unlocking the hidden potential of social media for your business.A proven promotion strategy for career advancement.The DNA of culture: How Service Express defines and maintains its core values.Leading with integrity: A key principle that drives Ron's personal and professional life.The biggest difference between leading 15 and 1000.Why you should never wait on a job title to lead.The boldest leadership move he’s ever seen. Striking the balance between employee care and performance.Work-life integration strategies for leaders.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 207Building Your Powerful Self-Care Culture, President at Kapsch TrafficCom North America, JB Kendrick
Self-care isn’t fluff. It's a vital component of getting team results.JB Kendrick, President at Kapsch TrafficCom North America, understands this better than most leaders I meet. Her leadership in building a powerful self-care culture has not only improved employee well-being but also increased productivity and fostered a positive work environment. Discover how her innovative approach is changing the game for workplace wellness and paving the way for a brighter future.Kapsch TrafficCom is an Austrian-based provider of intelligent transportation systems (ITS) offering solutions across their customers’ entire value chain including urban mobility, road user charging, and sustainable mobility. They are the same company that created the EZ pass for toll booths across the Northeast.LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/jb-kendrick-3970976aCompany Link: https://www.kapsch.net/enWhat You’ll Discover in this Episode:What the “Velvet Shark” taught her about leadership.Her four tenets of leadership: Insights from a successful business leader.A big leadership lesson she learned from SCUBA.From pecans to people: How a family business shaped her management style.The one trait she’d like to instill in every employee.A mentor who rose from school teacher to the first female board of director for AFLAC.An unexpected twist that catapulted her career to new heights.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 206The Must-Have Trait for Every Employee: The CEO on Building a Customer-First Culture - Kay Oswald of Technogym
Obsess or fail.These words have become the new mantra for every business leader who wants to thrive in today's challenging market. Yet, despite this understanding, many struggle to implement the right strategies to create a customer-first culture that will drive growth and keep them ahead of the competition. Enter Kay Oswald, CEO and Board Member at Technogym USA. In this interview, he shares the most vital trait he instills in every employee and lays out the essential steps to building a culture that obsessively focuses on the customer experience.If you want to ensure your team not only survives but thrives in the long term, you can't afford to miss his playbook.Technogym, the Wellness Company is a world leader in designing and manufacturing fitness equipment. They have over 2,300 employees across 14 branches in Europe, America, Asia, Middle East and Australia, Technogym exports 90% of its production to 100 countries. Every day, over 50 million people train with Technogym equipment in more than 80,000 Wellness Centers and 300,000 homes all over the world. Technogym has been the Official Supplier of the last 8 editions of the Olympic Games - from Sydney 2000 to Tokyo 2020. Its dedication and state-of-the-art solutions are used by many top-level athletes and sports teams from tennis star Rafael Nadal to Ferrari Formula 1.Kay is also a Board Member at A111 and Mi Abuelito Te Presta.He’s also had leadership roles at Philips Consumer Lifestyle and KitchenAid, and Smiledirectclub.LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayoswald/Company Link: https://www.technogym.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:Unlocking the CEO's mind: Revealing hacks to gauge curiosity and openness in interviews.The life-changing lesson one CEO learned on his second job.Insights from a CEO's fitness journey and the favorite workout machine that gets him there.The future of fitness: Predictions for how equipment will look different in 5 years.The single biggest trend shaping the future of fitness.No more terrible hotel gyms: How Technogym solved the hospitality industry's biggest problem.The mindset that drives success.Starting on the right foot: How the CEO sets the tone for staff meetings to keep the focus on what matters.The most memorable call he ever took.How his biggest mistake led to his greatest success.Optionality: The key to future-proofing your career and business.Why a CEO's leadership style must match the company's balance sheet.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 205Looming Threat that Could Bring Down Your Org - Former CIO to State of Wisconsin and Executive Advisor to Zscaler, David Cagigal
There’s a looming threat that could bring down your team.The “crown jewel” for organizations is their data. It guides your decision making, drives your processes, and ultimately enables your vision. The harsh reality is that your organization's data is vulnerable to a silent but deadly threat lurking in the cloud. Can you really afford to leave your security to chance? Find out how to protect your data and safeguard your business against disaster in my interview with David Cagigal, former CIO for the State of Wisconsin and Zscaler Executive Advisor. His experience includes information technology visioning and strategic planning and management. He’s experienced in converging business strategies with ever-changing and innovating information technologies.Also he was appointed to the CIO role by both Republican and Democrat administrations.Zscaler enables the world’s leading organizations to securely transform their networks and applications for a mobile and cloud first world. Zscaler services are 100% cloud-delivered and offer the simplicity, enhanced security, and improved user experience that traditional appliances or hybrid solutions are unable to match. Used in more than 185 countries, Zscaler operates the world’s largest cloud security platform, protecting thousands of enterprises and government agencies from cyberattacks and data loss. LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-cagigal-1409a/Company Link: https://www.zscaler.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:A success strategy to transition from the public sector to private sector.The leadership strategy he used to maintain his role under both Republican and Democrat administrations.The cybersecurity risk your team can't afford to ignore.The single biggest priority for cyber security for your team.How losing his job three times led to his greatest success.A work-life balance hack.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 204Start Your Own Business Without Burning Bridges, CIO Mike Burns of Benco Dental
You can leave to start your business without burning bridges.Aspiring entrepreneurs often grapple with the dilemma of starting their own business without damaging professional relationships. CIO Mike Burns of Benco Dental shares his inspiring journey of taking a leap of faith, starting his own business, and strengthening the relationship with his boss. Learn from his valuable insights on how to build a successful business while preserving important professional connections.Benco Dental is the largest privately held dental distributor in North America.Mike’s had an untraditional career starting in software development, detour into Sales Operations, and then back to IT - which now encompasses traditional IT but also enterprise-wide project management and continuous improvement.After 11.5 years at Benco, quitting in May to start his own business in the fall focused on generational AI.LinkedIn Profile http://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelburns4Company Link: https://www.benco.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:Why he was compelled to share his resignation news on LinkedIn.Gen AI's mission: Solving threats and seizing opportunities.The unexpected transformations of AI's impact on our world.Taking the leap of faith: How to determine if entrepreneurship is right for you.The crucial step to take before resigning from your job.Three distinct ways corporate life prepares you for entrepreneurship.Unlearning corporate mindsets for entrepreneurial success.Lessons in success from attending four high schools in four years.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 203Legally Blind Executive Leads the Airline Industry, Michael Swiatek CSPO Avianca
Here's proof that a disability can be a catalyst for incredible leadership, strength, and success.Michael Swiatek is Chief Strategy and Planning Officer of Avianca, a Latin American Group carrier based out of Colombia. He shares his inspiring journey of transforming his disability into his greatest asset and empowering others to do the same. Get ready to be motivated and inspired to turn your own limitations into limitless possibilities.He’s also held leadership roles in 8 different airlines including United Airlines, Qatar Airlines, Indigo, and Air New Zealand.Michael has been legally blind since birth and serves as Chairman of the International Air Transport Association’s working group on Accessibility (IATA is the trade association for the world’s airlines, representing some 290 airlines or 83% of total air traffic.)He’s a graduate of Iona University with an MBA from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business. LinkedIn Profile https://co.linkedin.com/in/michaelswiatekCompany Link: https://www.avianca.com/us/en/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:The inspiring story of a legally blind newspaper delivery boy.Unleashing your superability: The ultimate tool for self-discovery and empowerment.The three vital imperatives for every leader: Keys to achieving lasting impact.Using the “1,000 day career cycle” to accelerate your success.Breaking barriers: The truth about executive leadership with a disability.What it's like being an executive with a disability.How one setback paved the way for unprecedented success.Tech tools for the vision impaired that every leader can use.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 202Beat Impostor’s Syndrome and Claim Your Unique Voice - CHRO of HCSS, Julie Spurlin
She claimed her unique leadership voice then something big happened.You’ll be inspired by Julie Spurlin, CHRO of HCSS, who shares her personal experience of facing impostor syndrome early in her career and how she defeated it.Impostor syndrome is real and can hold even the most accomplished executive leaders back from reaching their full potential. It’s time to bring authenticity to your leadership style, overcome self-doubt, and step confidently into your role as a successful leader.Check out this interview!Julie Spurlin is Chief Human Resources Officer with HCSS, a software company serving the heavy civil construction industry, headquartered in Sugar Land, TX. She has over 25 years of experience in HR, mainly in technology organizations including RSA (a Dell Technologies Company) and Software AG. Her experience covers HR Business Partnership, Global HR strategy, M&A, public, private and PE held companies, and really encompasses all parts of the Employee Lifecycle support.She believes in keeping heart at the center of leadership and maintaining a servant mindset.LinkedIn Profile http://www.linkedin.com/in/jaspurlinCompany Link: https://www.hcss.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:Uncovering the leadership lessons of football legend, Frank Beamer.The secret to retaining star leaders who've already quit.The qualities leaders need to secure their seat at the table.The importance of inspiring the next generation of leaders for a stronger future.Leading with heart: The power of authenticity in leadership.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 201This Makes Your Brainstorming Prolific - Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer, Paul Roehrig of Ascendion
Use your next brainstorming session to create breakthroughs with "Jam Session Leadership".You'll be engaged and inspired here with Paul Roehrig, Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer of Ascendion. He shares his "Jam Session'' Leadership Strategy to foster team creativity. He’s also used it to drive business success and write three award-winning books on the future of work, technology, and society.Too often brainstorming turns unproductive and can leave everyone feeling like it was a waste of time and money. From startups to established corporations, Paul’s strategy share will show you how to leverage the "jam session" mentality to achieve breakthrough results.Ascendion is a full-service software engineering company.LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-roehrig-phd-020785/Company Link: https://ascendion.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:Drumming up leadership lessons: Insights from a Syracuse Music Hall of Fame inductee.Unexpected leadership: Navigating the challenges and opportunities.Collaborative writing: The key to unlocking your book's potential.From idea to fun: How to determine if writing a book is right for you.Blues lessons for AI: What a legendary musician can teach us about technology.Taming the machines: Strategies for leading in an AI world.Resources:Monster: A Tough Love Letter On Taming the Machines that Rule our Jobs, Lives, and Future - Paul Roehrig, Ben P ringWhat To Do When Machines Do Everything: How to Get Ahead in a World of AI, Algorithms, Bots, and Big - Malcolm Frank, Paul Roehrig, Ben Pring-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 200How a 550-Year Old Company Empowers Employees to Drive Results, CEO North America Mark McCullough Gebrüder Weiss
"Employee Empowerment" can feel risky and like you're losing control.If it makes you uneasy, then you need to hear this interview.I host Mark McCullough, CEO North America at Gebrüder Weiss (GW), who shares his top strategy for creating a culture of empowerment while mitigating the risks. You’ll discover how his approach can turn your workplace into a dynamic, empowered environment where employees are eager to take ownership of their work and drive impressive results.Mark’s been in logistics and transportation for 28 years. He joined the company 18 years ago and worked his way up from salesperson to the top US role.GW is a family-run transportation and logistics organization with a 550-year history with more than 8,400 employees. They are the longest-running transportation company in the world having started in 1474.LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccullough-b787a364/Company Link: https://www.gw-world.com/us/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:What playing Nintendo as a kid can teach you about leadership.The career insight from running a paper route at 11 years old.How a company thrives for 550 years.What happened when he had an “empty suit” manager.The realization he had when his mettle was tested during COVID.Why he’s a believer in having a “flat” organization.His biggest source of inspiration in life and how a tough time got him through.An insight for increasing work-life balance.The story of a career setback that led to a comeback.A colorful story of when someone was fired.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 199The Career Optimism Index: Unleashing Its Power John Woods, PhD, Chief Academic Officer and Provost at the University of Phoenix
The Career Optimism Index is a powerful tool for unlocking team performance.With its unique blend of science and research, this cutting-edge index offers surprising insights for leaders to effectively manage their team and chart a path to success. It’s particularly helpful as labor force trends and preferences have substantially changed over the last three years.I host John Woods, PhD, who is the Chief Academic Officer and Provost at the University of Phoenix. He’s developed and championed this research, and he shares how you can use it to become a more effective leader and develop your team.He holds a PhD in Higher Education Administration from Bowling Green State University, as well as a Master of Arts and a Bachelor of Arts from Carleton University.John supports the University of Phoenix Career Institute ®, which was created to address broad, persistent and systemic barriers to career advancement through research-based solutions and impactful partnerships that break down barriers Americans face in their careers. The institute just launched its third-annual Career Optimism Index, which is a comprehensive study of American workers’ career perceptions.LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnwoodseducator/Company Link: https://www.phoenix.edu/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:How one of the greatest football players in history delivered a dose of inspiration.The surprising result of the Career Optimism Index.Why career optimism reduces the cost of turnover for companies.How exactly the unemployment rate impacts career optimism.An unexpected twist that led to his career success.What he learned about leadership from his first job.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 198The Magic of Leading with Confident Humility, President of Vitacost.com, Guy Burgstahler
Forget the bravado. Confident humility Is the new power move in leadership.Successful leaders embrace this perspective of authenticity, empathy, and courage, while staying grounded and humble.I host President and CMO of Vitacost.com, Guy Burgstahler, who shares the secret to unlocking your full leadership potential and the engagement of your team.He started out as the Chief Marketing Officer then quickly transitioned into the President's role when the business was integrated into the broader Kroger enterprise.Vitacost.com, Inc. is a leading online retailer and direct marketer of natural, organic, and sustainable health and wellness products, Guy served in senior leadership roles at Albertsons, Garden of Life, Tractor Supply Company, and Dick’s Sporting Goods.LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/guyburgstahler/Company Link: https://www.vitacost.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:How competitive sports can shape your leadership.The upside of Impostor Syndrome.What pets can teach every leader about success.Tips for rapid eCommerce profit acceleration.Passion to prosperity: Turning your passion into business success.The ultimate parenting hack for busy leaders.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 197The Lifeblood Your Business Needs to Thrive - CFO of West Shore Home, Philip Brenckle
Without one critical element, your business is at risk of stagnation or failure. It's not enough to simply keep up with the latest trends and technology - you need to get down to the core of what really drives the sustainability of your business.I host CFO Philip Brenckle of West Shore Home, who reveals the raw truth about the lifeblood your business needs to thrive, and why ignoring it could mean the failure of your enterprise.West Shore Home is a powerhouse in the home remodeling world. During his tenure they’ve grown revenue by 1,000%+ with the majority of that coming organically.He started his career in IT and Business Systems before transitioning to a 15 year career in Corporate & Institutional Banking with PNC Financial Services Group and Huntington Bancshares. He received his undergraduate degree from Duquesne University and his MBA from University of Pittsburgh.West Shore Home started as a local window & door replacement company in a small Pennsylvania suburb and has grown into a technology-enabled home improvement powerhouse with over 2,500 employees across 13+ states. With continued national expansion plans, they’ve committed to staying true to their roots with a customer-first mindset and an employee-centric culture. This includes over 20,000 5-star reviews on Google, Facebook, etc and were recently recognized as a “Top Workplace USA’.LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-b-99950214/Company Link: https://westshorehome.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:No free rides: The compelling case for earned leadership.How one thing solved 95% of his business woes.Lessons from the financial frontline: What banking taught him about leadership.An M&A tip that can mean success or failure.Surviving the business rollercoaster: Why executives must plan for every cycle.The journey to becoming America’s most admired home remodeling company.The incredible story of his first week as CFO (which happened to be the day the Pandemic shut things down).-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 196Why Fun at Work Delivers Peak Performance for Clients, COO of CBIZ, Arianna Ehmer
What does it take to transform an “old school’ culture into one of fun AND peak performance?Many leaders see these as opposing forces but there’s a surprising synergy that you’ll learn about in my interview today.Get inspired by Top 10 Accounting firm COO, Arianna Ehmer, of CBIZ Accounting & Tax, who shares a powerful vision and strategy to “get stuff done” while injecting fun, trust, and connection.CBIZ is an organization with over 120 offices and nearly 7,000 associates throughout the U.S and you’ll discover how Arianna is impacting this organization at scale while delivering for clients.LinkedIn Profile http://www.linkedin.com/in/arianna-ehmerCompany Link: https://www.cbiz.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:The benefit of having a black background wall in your home office.How she broke the mold: A strategy to succeed as an Executive in a Top 10 accounting firm despite perceptions.The success principle she learned working in the world of college sports. Boosting employee engagement and performance: The crucial role of fun and focus in office culture.How to foster a culture of change in any industry.Unlocking potential: The power of technology to streamline mundane tasks and enrich your work life.—----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 195How One Leader Inspires 15,000 Employees to Believe in Themselves - Wipro Executive, Ashish Saxena
One thing can inspire 15,000 employees to achieve greatness.I host Wirpro executive, Ashish Saxena, who shares his inspiring journey of growing up in a small village in India without electricity to becoming a leader of large global organization.You’ll discover the strategy he uses to drive performance across the organization and engage his teams. Listen in and learn the secrets of leadership that can help you unlock the full potential of your workforce.Here's a little more about Ashish. He’s the Wipro Senior Vice President and Sector Head of Manufacturing and Hi-Tech Business. Wipro is a leading technology services and consulting company focused on building innovative solutions that address clients’ most complex digital transformation needs. They have over 260,000 employees and Ashish’s team is over 15,000 alone.He’s had a 25+ year career demonstrating visionary leadership and outstanding performance managing Fortune 500 and Global 1000 client relationships. He also served as a leader for over 20 years at Tata Consultancy Services. He received his MBA from Rutger and also completed the Advanced Management Program at The Wharton School.What You’ll Discover in this Episode:The biggest challenge when leading a global team of 15,000 employees.What he learned growing up without electricity.How leaders can inspire their teams.Why leaders should give their teams a platform to share their success. The importance of understanding the culture of a company.Four powerful strategies for managing big teams.Why building a strong team results in a more manageable calendar. The poem that fuels his work day.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 194From Intern to President in 8 Years - How Eric Watkins Hustled his Way to the Top at Abstrakt Marketing Group
Eric Watkins shares his inspiring story of how he went from an intern to President of Abstrakt Marketing Group in just eight years. You’ll discover the challenges he faced, the strategies he used, and the lessons he learned along the way. Find out how he hustled his way to the top and find inspiration for your own career journey.Eric was awarded the Workforce Magazine’s Game Changer award, and in 2022 was honored as one of St. Louis's 100 Titans.Abstrakt Marketing Group is based in St. Louis, MO and is a business growth agency serving over 1700 clients nationwide. They are a full-service lead generation company made up of 500+ employees, offering both inbound and outbound solutions for their client partners.Eric is also Co-Host of The Grow Show, a podcast for business leaders and entrepreneurs with a growth-driven mindset. His weekly episodes share real stories and actionable insights from experienced leaders. LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-watkins-amg/Company Link: https://www.abstraktmg.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:The career advice that propelled him forward, thanks to his sister's wise words. The daily action you can take to prevent burnout. The secret to avoiding being stuck in your job and find your path to success. Powerful strategies for finding a mentor and leveraging their wisdom. How leaders can prevent "Tall Poppy" syndrome and encourage growth on their team. The unexpected advantage of launching a business podcast. His greatest failure and the lessons he learned along the way. How to recreate your best workday and achieve peak performance every time.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 193The High Cost of Unwell Workers (and Big Opportunity) - CEO of Gympass, Cesar Carvalho
Unhealthy employees cost your team and company.Five years of compelling research from Gympass shows that having a workforce with poor health habits can significantly impact your bottom line. It also reveals a significant opportunity for every team leader.I host Cesar Carvalho, CEO and Co-Founder of Gympass, who shares the secrets behind this hidden drain on profits and an important strategy to turn things around by creating a healthier workplace culture.Cesar has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business from Universidade de São Paulo and attended Harvard Business School before founding Gympass. Following more than ten years of business management experience under his belt, including time working at CVC, McKinsey & Company and AC Nielsen. Gympass is on a mission to make wellness universal for employees globally -- and it's happening at scale. The company boasts a network of over 50,000 wellness partners, 10,000+ clients, and just hit 250MM user check-ins. For context, it took Gympass nine years to hit 100MM… and just 1.5 years to hit 250MM, which underscores the exponential growth of workplace wellbeing for both employers and individuals.Cesar has also won a number of awards in his role as CEO, such as 2022 EY’s Entrepreneurs of the Year. Recently, the company also won 2022 Inc. Best Workplaces. LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/cesar-carvalho-gympass/Company Link: https://gympass.com/en-us/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:Why he dropped out of Harvard to pursue his business idea.The big problem he faced that inspired his vision. Gympass’ suprising research on wellness and employee retention (5 years, 12MM people!).Why mixing wellness apps and gym memberships delivers cumulative results.The role of artificial intelligence in the wellness industry.How can leaders EFFECTIVELY bring well-being to their teams.Should you take time off or work a flexible schedule?A powerful wellness strategy that applies for companies of 1 to 100,000.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 192One Leadership Action Unleashes Untapped Potential, CFO of National Grid NY, Chris McConnachie
Leaders who take risks on employees thrive. Yet many leaders hesitate or completely miss the opportunity because it’s too far outside their comfort zone.Empowering your employees to take on new challenges and responsibilities can lead to incredible growth and innovation within your organization. By taking risks on your team, you're not only unlocking their untapped potential, but also creating a culture of creativity, passion, and success.I host CFO, Chris McConnachie of National Grid NY, who shares how to place a strategic bet on your employees' development, unleash their full potential, and watch your organization flourish like never before.Chris joined National Grid back in 2008 and this perspective helped him steadily rise through the ranks with eight roles over the past 15 yrs.National Grid is one of the world’s largest utilities, focused on delivering energy safely, efficiently, reliably, and responsibly. As an international electricity and gas company, they are one of the largest investor-owned energy companies in the world and play a vital role in delivering gas and electricity to many millions of people across Great Britain and Norteastern US.LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-mcconnachie-3434362aCompany Link: https://www.nationalgridus.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:What tennis can teach executives about achieving success.Energy sector alert: why leadership is vital now more than ever.The power of inquiry: three critical questions every leader should ask their teams today.When he discovered the most essential success element for executives.Chris' career-defining moment.Unleashing authenticity: A strategy to becoming a more effective leader.Why your inner circle matters, and how to cultivate it.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 191Mastering the One Leadership Tool that Matters - COO of Solenis, Dan Key
Mastering one leadership tool can be THE game changer in your team’s performance.As a leader, you probably recognize that success hinges on your ability to inspire and guide your team towards a shared vision. But with so many tools and techniques available, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of where to focus your efforts. The solution? I host COO, Dan Key, of Solenis who shares the one leadership tool he’s used to drive success across 10 major companies. It unleashes team performance and accelerates productivity. You won’t want to miss it!Dan leads procurement, operations and supply chain across the organization. He’s also served as a senior leader who has improved key metrics and end-to-end supply chains at Honeywell, Sigma-Aldrich, Axalta Coating Systems, Dentsply Sirona, etc.Solenis is a leading global producer of specialty chemicals, focused on delivering sustainable solutions for water-intensive industries. These technologies are used by customers to improve operational efficiencies, enhance product quality, protect plant assets, minimize environmental impact and maintain healthy water. They have 49 manufacturing facilities strategically located around the globe.LinkedIn Profile https://www.LinkedIn.com/in/dan-key-758a681Company Link: https://www.solenis.com/enWhat You’ll Discover in this Episode:A powerful strategy for achieving work-life balance.The one leadership tool you must create.The important advice his father gave him that hangs on a plaque in his office.The inspiring metaphor that inspires unstoppable leadership.The DNA of great leaders (six traits).Nature or Nurture? The debate on the origins of leadership.10 Companies, 1 Leader: The priceless lessons learned along the way.The valuable insight he learned as a leader in 10 different companies.Why empowering your team is best done by becoming a “participative” leader.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 190The “Title-Free” Leader - Kyndryl Executive Hemang Dave
What happens when you remove the title from your email signature?I host Kyndryl Executive, Hemang Dave, who challenges the traditional notion that leadership only comes from a designated title or position. Our thought-provoking conversation explains that anyone can (and should) step up to lead, regardless of their role or rank. Through insightful examples and practical strategies, you’ll be empowered to unleash your full leadership potential and make a meaningful impact in your organization and beyond.Even though he doesn’t use it in his email signature, Hemang Dave is CTO and Client Technical Leader at Kyndryl. Kyndryl is an IT Consulting and Services company with 90,000 employees around the world serving 75 of the Fortune 100.Before joining Kyndryl he spent over 20 years at IBM and held leadership roles that included Chief Architect and CIO.LinkedIn Profile http://www.linkedin.com/in/hemangdave1 Company Link: https://www.kyndryl.com/us/enWhat You’ll Discover in this Episode:Why Hemang has lived the “American Dream”.The importance of leading without a title.How you can make more time to help others.The surprising thing that happened when he became an advisor to the State of Rhode Island.How to handle leadership disagreements.Where leaders should develop their “third eye”.The key to increasing the value of your contributions.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 189Milwaukee Bucks President Reveals Winning Formula for Going Last to First! - Peter Feigin
Are you a leader seeking inspiration to take your organization to new heights? Look no further than Milwaukee Bucks President Peter Feigin. He has a winning formula for success that transformed his team from last to first in the NBA, and he's ready to share it with you.Feigin's leadership has been nothing short of epic. When he first took over the Bucks, the team had only 15 wins, a dated arena, and was dead last in merchandise sales. But with Feigin at the helm, the team rose and became one of the league's most dominant forces.Now, with two NBA Championship titles under their belt and a brand new, world-class arena worth $524 million, the Bucks are a shining example of what is possible when strong leadership meets determination. Feigin has reimagined, rebuilt, and reenergized the team's business operations, resulting in substantial increases in attendance, revenue, and TV viewership.But that's not all. Feigin has also assembled a top-flight management team and nurtured a corporate culture marked by accountability, collaboration, and fun. He has spearheaded many diversity and inclusion initiatives, including hiring the first female play-by-play announcer for any major men's professional team.Don't miss out on the opportunity to learn from Feigin's experience and wisdom. With his winning strategy, you too can achieve success against all odds.LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-feigin-6448a2/Company Link: https://www.nba.com/bucksWhat You’ll Discover in this Episode:The moment he knew they would win an NBA Championship. The secret to the NBA’s global growth.What he learned at Six Flags that sparked his success down the road.What every business leader can learn from attending a Bucks game.The impact of artificial intelligence on the sports world.How kitchen table conversations as a kid shaped his perspective.The business model behind an NBA Team.Three success strategies that all employees need to be keeping in mind.The result of having fun in the workplace (and two strategies to foster it).-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 188NASCAR Executive's Bold Vision for Diversity and Equity - John Ferguson, CHRO
NASCAR has a bold vision for diversity and equity taking shape. You may not consider NASCAR at the forefront of conversations about diversity in sports, but you’ll find a dynamic leader at the helm who puts forth an ambitious plan.I host NASCAR CHRO, John Ferguson, who shares an inspiring strategy to increase diversity in the organization. Whether you're a fan of NASCAR or a leader seeking innovative strategies for promoting diversity in your own organization, this is a must-listen for anyone committed to creating a more just and equitable world.NASCAR is the American Auto Racing sanctioning and operating company that is best known for stock car racing. NASCAR is the leading promoter of motorsports activities and sanctions more than 1,200 races in over 30 U.S. states,In this role, he oversees NASCAR Human Resources and provides strategic leadership around talent acquisition, employee engagement and culture development to support and engage employees across more than 20 office and race-track locations in the U.S.,For nearly a decade, he’s served in HR roles at Monumental Sports & Entertainment (MSE) in Washington, D.C. and most recently as Vice President of People & Culture. While at MSE, he led the HR function for six sports team properties, including the Washington Wizards, Washington Capitals and Washington Mystics, four facilities, including Capital One Arena, and more than 2,500 employees.John serves on the Alumni Board of Directors for Furman University, UNCF Orlando Leadership Council and Durham Success Summit Advisory Council.He also holds Bachelor’s in Political Science from Furman University, Executive Certificate in Strategic Diversity and Inclusion Management from Georgetown University, and a Master’s in Business Administration from the Howard University School of Business.John was recognized by Savoy Magazine as a 2022 Most Influential Black Executives in Corporate America.LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/john--ferguson/Company Link: https://www.nascar.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:Why using TikTok can boost your leadership.How to help your employees make great decisions.What it's like being a CHRO at NASCAR.John's incredible leadership journey.The NASCAR approach for motivating employees.A strategy to create trust with your employees.How leaders of the league are fostering positive competition.The future of diversity at NASCAR.How to increase the speed of effective change.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 187What Difficult Moments Reveal About Your Leadership - President, Financial Services, Public Sector and Government at NPD Group, Daniel De Pinho
What does a difficult moment truly reveal about your leadership?I host Daniel De Pinho, President, Financial Services, Public Sector and Government at NPD Group, who shares a big moment that happens in every leader’s career plus a powerful strategy you can use to handle it.You see, he’s steadily risen through the ranks for over 23 years and he explains the principle that has guided him through the most challenging times.The NPD Group provides data, industry expertise, and prescriptive analytics to help grow over 2,000+ companies worldwide.He lives with his wife Tara and 2 beautiful daughters in PA with a couple of rescue "fur children".LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/ddepinho116/Company Link: https://www.npd.com/wps/portal/npd/us/home/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:What coaching soccer taught Daniel about leadership.The importance of reflection as a leader.The feedback that accelerated his career.How to deliver bad news without sugarcoating it.A vital work-life balance strategy.A powerful way to start your one-on-one meetings.How to use ”coffee” to build trust.Why being vulnerable can help you get promoted.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 186The Hidden Cost of Micromanagement - CTO Phillip Turpin of TechnologyAdvice
Telling your team what to do can cost you and your company. Obsessive micromanagers usually make terrible team leaders and leading like a dictator can drive up turnover, thwart innovation, and stunt the growth of your team.The bottom-line is that micromanagement is bad for business.I host CTO, Phillip Turpin, at TechnologyAdvice. He shares a common mistake that leaders often make plus a leadership strategy that can accelerate your impact and your team’s progress.The way he explains this mistake you’ll probably have the same reaction I did… ‘Um, I’ve done that.”He’s also worked for Executive Director at Ramsey Solutions, a Dave Ramsey Company, and explains the positive lessons he learned during his time there.TechnologyAdvice is a full-service B2B media company that delivers marketing and data for 600+ technology companies. Put another way, they connect technology providers with buyers who are actively researching products like theirs.LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/phillipturpin/Company Link: https://technologyadvice.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:What playing music in a band and leading a company have in common.The event that changed Phillip’s leadership approach.Why the best leaders are coaches too. Two great books to equip leaders with coaching skills.How do you get the answer out of your team? How do you encourage critical thinking?What it was like being a leader inside of Dave Ramsey’s organization.How to create a different environment for your team.Why he's farming outside of work.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 185The Invisible Factor Determining Your Leadership Effectiveness - CEO of OTC Industrial Technologies, Bill Canady
Ready to discover the surprising truth about your leadership effectiveness? One hidden factor can sabotage your success. Without it, you're just another one-hit wonder. But with it, you can unlock your full potential and elevate your team's performance.I host CEO Bill Canady of OTC Industrial Technologies who shares the invisible factor that determines your leadership effectiveness.Established in 1963, OTC Industrial Technologies is one of the largest industrial distributors and service providers in the United States. Bill directs an organization with over thirty operating companies, $1 billion in annual sales, 2000+ employees, and over seventy sites. During his tenure, OTC has grown revenues by more than 43% and earnings over 78%.Bill has over thirty years of experience as a global business executive and led numerous organizations through their most critical challenges and opportunities. He developed a set of tools and techniques to grow multi-billion-dollar companies and created the Profitable Growth Operating System® (PGOS) to help owners and operators around the world profitably grow their companies. He graduated summa cum laude from Elmhurst University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and received his MBA from the University of Chicago, Booth School of Business. He’s also a proud veteran of the United States Navy.His book, Profitable Growth on Demand - Take Command of Your Business comes out in 2023.LinkedIn Profile http://linkedin.com/in/bill-canadyCompany Link: https://otcindustrial.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:The incredible OTC turnaround story.How companies can thrive in high inflationary environments.How to identify the big problem that holds your team back.What increases your leadership vision.How to use the 80/20 rule to boost your team results.The step he took to develop 15 leaders into CEOs.The saying he leads by. -----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 184What the Drones Industry is Teaching Leaders about Profitability - CEO of DroneUp, Tom Walker
Wake up, leaders! Drones are revolutionizing the business world and it's time to take notice.These aren't just your average flying toys or covert military gadgets. Drones are commercial game-changers that have the power to transform EVERY industry, and their demand is skyrocketing like never before. If your company is still ignoring this reality, then you may be falling behind the curve.I host CEO Tom Walker from DroneUp, the leading drone delivery company in the US. He reveals the one question every company needs to ask themselves to unlock the full potential of drones and boost profitability. Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain a competitive edge!DroneUp, a leading technology company focused on commercial drone solutions. They tackle last-mile delivery across multiple industries, including medical, construction, food and beverage, retail, and smart city logistics.DroneUp was founded in 2016 but the last few years have been significant. In 2022, DroneUp opened 34 delivery hubs in 6 states in partnership with Walmart. To support this growth, they also opened a dedicated training facility for flight engineers in Virginia.Prior to working in Technology, Tom spent almost 17 years as a naval officer, pioneering military and government digital reform through extensive re-programming and web enablement of computer systems to support both U.S. and International Special Forces. He has also served as an advisor to the White House on technology innovation and its impact on the emerging workforce.LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/webteks/Company Link: https://www.droneup.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:What leaders most need to understand about the drone industry.Why it’s vital for leaders to introduce the conversation for drones AND aerial data collection services.The secret to DroneUp’s success (It’s not about drones).How a project with Walmart became a turning point.How to drive innovation across multiple industries.Tom’s favorite drone success story.How to maintain a small team culture in a fast growing business.How to make decisions quickly inside a rapidly grown company.How to make a failure into a success.Three success strategies every leader needs to know.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 183Secret to Building a Dominant Sales Organization - President Steve Cox of Steam Logistics
To become a great leader, you must make the leap from lone wolf to powerful collaborator. This is particularly important for building a dominant sales organization. I host Steve Cox, President at Steam Logistics, based in Chattanooga, TN with 25 years in the freight brokerage industry. He has led his company through multiple years of explosive growth. There’s been one practical sales strategy at the center of it all, and you’ll discover that in this interview today.LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-cox-1484405/Company Link: https://www.steamlogistics.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:A bet he made with his team that became a viral sensation.Sales acceleration strategies for leaders.Why it’s so important to help your team “loosen the collar” (and how to do it).What happens when you hire employees who are creative and passionate.How you thrive in adversity (growing from 20 to 900 employees).The worst leadership advice he’s heard.Why they lead the industry in eliminating non-competes agreements.His biggest inspiration and a difficult moment it got him through.Why the biggest failures are learning opportunity.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 182What Innovative Leaders Teach Their Team First, MindGym President and CBSO, Janet Ahn
The world’s most innovative leaders teach their teams one thing first.With the right strategy you can unlock the potential of your team and create a culture of innovation. I host Dr. Janet Ahn, President and Chief Behavioral Science Officer at MindGym, who shares her leadership vision to create the most innovative company in the world. She explains the simple leadership action she takes every day to accelerate creativity and the success of her organization.Stop wasting your time on ho-hum leadership techniques, and discover this powerful perspective of unleashing the potential of your team. You and your company need to consider this strategy and won’t want to miss it!Janet is a sought-after speaker and subject matter expert at both academic and industry conferences. Her work has also been featured in various media outlets such as Axios, Women’s Health Magazine, NPR, American Educator, Business Insider, CBS, and USA Today.She has a Bachelor’s degree from Barnard College and a Master and PhD from NYU.LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/janet-n-ahn-phd-705b7796/Company Link: https://themindgym.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:What she discovered in her Growth Mindset research under Dr. Carol Dweck's $2.5 million National Science Foundation Grant. What leaders need to know most about MindGym.Two big success lessons she learned from her parents.Why it’s important to set high goals.What it was like as a first generation college student from an immigrant family. Advice for introverted executives. How to increase your team’s loyalty. -----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 181What 300 CEO Job Searches Revealed - Jordan Brugg, Global Head of Private Equity for Spencer Stuart
300 CEO searches reveals a lot.I host Jordan Brugg, Global Head of Private Equity for Spencer Stuart, who has seen it all. He shares the biggest mistake executives make when looking for jobs, the best strategies for companies to recruit the best, and a powerful thing he learned from his mentor. Don't miss out on this exclusive interview on how to become a leader the world will remember!He has authored, or co-authored, several articles, including Predicting CEO Success: When Potential Outperforms Experience, Building the Future: Leadership Insights for the Global Infrastructure Industry, The PE-backed Portfolio Company Board, and Prioritizing Experience: With the Stakes so High for Selecting the Right CEO, Are Boards Looking for a Safer Bet?LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbrugg/Company Link: https://www.spencerstuart.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:What he learned watching a legendary CEO coach other leaders.“CEOitis”Biggest mistake executives make when looking for jobs.How to find the BEST recruiter for your job search.Top strategy for companies to recruit the best.Most effective executive networking tool (NOT LINKEDIN).How Executive-level job searches differ from “normal” ones.Why the best Executives can bring their team with them.A powerful lesson Jordan learned from his mentor.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 180How to Thrive in a Huge Company (380,000 Employees) - CEO of UnitedHealth Vision, John D. Ryan
Feeling lost in the crowd at a large company? Struggling to make an impact and achieve your goals? It's time to take control of your career and thrive in the big leagues! I host John D. Ryan, CEO for UnitedHealth Group Vision Plans and Specialty Benefits and he shares the secrets to navigating the complex dynamics of a huge company, building your network, and standing out from the crowd. Get ready to take your career to the next level and become a top performer in the corporate world.John previously served as an executive within UHC’s National Accounts division, managing its client management team which serves over 500 national account employers, representing over 10M covered lives.Before joining UnitedHealth Group, John served as a senior leader with Mercer HR Consulting and Watson Wyatt (now WillisTowersWatson). John has a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and English from the University of Notre Dame and a Masters of Public Administration from the Maxwell School at Syracuse University.LinkedIn Profile http://www.linkedin.com/in/john-ryan-2b71924Company Link: https://www.uhc.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:Why becoming a parent hones your leadership style. The moment in class that changed his career path.The three uncommon leadership skills you need for difficult situations. His most memorable annual review.Success strategy for leaders to thrive in an enormous company of 380,000 employees. -----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 179Johnson Controls CTO on Why Laughter is the Best Leadership Medicine - Vijay Sankaran
Have you ever had a leader that helped your team laugh?If you have then you probably recognize that laughter is so important that it’s vital that leaders learn to foster it!A good laugh is the best way to start your day, and it turns out that laughter is also one of the best leadership medicines out there. It improves your team's productivity, morale, and connection.Also, of course it’s also free and easy to use! I host Vijay Sankaran, CTO at Johnson Controls, who shares a powerful leadership strategy to foster more laughter in your team immediately. Try it and no doubt you’ll notice the benefits.Vijay leads the team developing the technology strategy and its OpenBlue suite of connected solutions for every aspect of the built environment – where 40% of carbon emissions come from.He’s a thoughtful leader who enjoys the opportunity to create and develop products and services that help companies achieve their sustainability goals.He previously served as CTO of Ford Motor Company, CIO of TD Ameritrade and a senior leader at Ernest and Young. With this experience in management consulting, automotive, and fintech industries, he has a unique perspective on leadership to share with us.He has a Masters Degree from Duke and a Bachelor's Degree from Duke.LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/vijay-sankaran-762a9/Company Link: https://www.johnsoncontrols.com/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:What happened when he wrote a vulnerable post on LinkedIn.A strategy to address mental fatigue in yourself and others.What causes work-life imbalance.How stress manifests in the body.A simple step that fosters team laughter.How a stressful experience led to the intersection of his passion and career.Why his alter ego is the “Green Man”.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 178Kenneth Cole President on How Your Wardrobe Reveals Your Leadership Strategy - Jed Berger
Your wardrobe reveals your leadership strategy.Most leaders don't think about it, but what you wear sends a message to others about who you are and what you stand for. It’s always communicating something, so let it be something that supports the vision and culture you’re striving to create. Otherwise, it could be working against your leadership message.I host President of Kenneth Cole, Jed Berger, who shares a powerful strategy to accelerate your leadership with your clothing choices.He was previously Global Chief Marketing Officer for the Foot Locker family for 10 years in North America and the stock price tripled during that time.He has entrepreneurial roots having co-founded Dime Magazine and built the agency, 94x50. Then he moved on to serve as the Senior Vice President of Marketing for Modell’s Sporting Goods.His marketing acumen has been acknowledged regularly throughout his career, including being named to SBG 40 Under 40 in 2011, and Footwear News 40 Under 40 in 2018. LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/jed-berger-273b734/Company Link: https://www.kennethcole.com/ What You’ll Discover in this Episode:What is “Shoedar” and what should be on yours.Why deciding what you wear is a leadership strategy.Advice for what business leaders should wear to work.Setting the tone for your team with what you wear.A powerful perspective on building trust with your team.A success strategy for leaders starting in a new role.The misnomer of a “flip-flop” leader.What you should wear the first time you meet your team.The purpose-driven product.The two questions that Kenneth Cole asks in meetings.The best leadership quote he’s read on a door mat.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter

Ep 177Teams Fall Apart Without This Vital Trait - CTO of SITA Sherry Stein
Teams crumble without one vital trait. You may get short-term results, but when a crisis hits you must have trust. I host Sherry Stein, CTO Americas at SITA, who shares the crisis that tested her mettle and the powerful strategy she used to quickly build trust across group. This trust became the very foundation of safety and success across the organization.They’ve been serving the aviation industry since 1948 and are now a provider to 95% of the world’s airports. They provide IT services to the air transport industry, delivering solutions for airlines, airports, aircraft, and governments. They work with more than 1,000 airports while delivering the promise of the connected aircraft to more than 400 airlines on 17,000 aircraft globally. Sherry has more than 30 years working in aviation technology with a mission in life to create the seamless travel experience. She’s an avid traveler, of course!LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrylsteinCompany Link: https://www.sita.aero/What You’ll Discover in this Episode:Sherry’s mission to create the “seamless travel experience”.Why there are 40 organizations involved with every flight and the challenge of connecting them all.Her surprising career path to becoming an executive and thought-leader in Travel Technology.What business travelers need to know about the future of air travel.What happens when your face becomes your boarding pass.How she identifies “pockets of brilliance” to create change.Why mistakes often make the best learning.-----Connect with the Host, #1 bestselling author Ben FanningSpeaking and Training inquiresSubscribe to my Youtube channelLinkedInInstagramTwitter