The Learn-It-All Podcast (Damon Lembi)
Explore every episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast
| Pub. Date | Title | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 Oct 2024 | 75: The Fastest Way to Build a Brand People Can’t Ignore | Marques Ogden | 00:34:11 | |
What is your personal brand really saying about you? In today’s hyper-competitive market, it’s not enough to simply offer a service or product—your brand needs to stand for something deeper. In this compelling episode of The Learn-It-All Leader Podcast, Damon welcomes back Marques Ogden, his first repeat guest. In their first episode together (#15), Marques shared his remarkable personal story as an NFL star that lost it all in 90 days and rebuilt his life and career. In this episode, Marques dives into one of the most critical aspects of modern leadership—branding. Personal and company branding has become essential for leaders who want to stand out in an oversaturated market. Marques shares powerful strategies for building an authentic brand that resonates, whether you're leading a business, looking for new career opportunities, or establishing your influence in your industry. Listen, learn, and start building a brand that sets you apart. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction – Marques Ogden introduces Damon Lembi as his guest and sets up a conversation about personal branding and leadership. (01:32) The Power of Personal Branding – Damon shares how he began to intentionally build his personal brand and why authenticity is at the heart of everything he does. (05:30) Leveraging LinkedIn – Damon and Marques discuss the impact of consistent posting on LinkedIn and how to engage your network by being genuine and transparent. (09:00) Standing Out in a Crowded Market – Damon explains why it’s important to offer more than just a product or service and how sharing your personal journey creates connections with your audience. (12:33) Overcoming Doubts and Critics – Damon talks about overcoming the fear of judgment when posting on social media and how persistence is key to building a successful brand. (17:00) Personal Branding for Non-Speakers – Marques and Damon offer advice to listeners who may not want to be public speakers but still need a strong personal brand to grow their careers. (21:30) Building Meaningful Connections – Damon reflects on the importance of building genuine relationships both in person and online and how networking has opened up new opportunities for him. (33:18) Final Thoughts on Branding – Marques and Damon wrap up with key takeaways on personal branding and how to continuously evolve your brand over time. About Marques: Marques Ogden is a former NFL player turned keynote speaker, business coach, and consultant. Inducted into the Howard University Athletic Hall of Fame and recognized on CORE Magazine’s Top 100 Most Influential Blacks Today list, Marques has worked with over 65 Fortune 500 companies. He shares his expertise through impactful speaking engagements and his globally-ranked podcast, “Get Authentic with Marques Ogden.”
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| 14 Nov 2024 | 91: 4 BOLD Moves to Reinvent Yourself as a Leader | Kayla Logue | 00:53:07 | |
Do You Need to Break Free from Society's "Success" Script? Are you following someone else's definition of success, checking boxes that society laid out for you rather than creating your own path? In this compelling episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, real estate professional and author Kayla Logue shares how she walked away from a seemingly perfect life with $900 to her name to rebuild on her own terms and ended up more successful than ever. Kayla opens up about her journey from feeling stuck and unfulfilled despite "having it all" to completely starting over during the pandemic. She discusses how journaling helped her gain clarity, the importance of taking radical responsibility for your life, and how building the right community can accelerate personal and professional growth. Her story offers valuable insights for leaders feeling trapped by expectations or seeking more authentic paths to success. This Episode Covers:
Chapters: (00:00) Introduction to Kayla Logue – Damon introduces Kayla Logue, author of Always Squeezing Lemons, and they discuss her journey toward redefining her life. (02:00) Realizing the Need for Change – Kayla shares how a moment of self-reflection in 2020 led her to reassess her path and make a fresh start. (05:00) Leaving Behind Society’s Expectations – Kayla explains why she chose to step away from the “perfect life” and pursue something that felt more authentic. (08:33) Finding Clarity Through Journaling – Kayla discusses the transformative power of journaling in helping her gain clarity and set intentional goals. (12:50) Radical Responsibility – Kayla emphasizes the importance of taking full responsibility for one’s life, decisions, and happiness. (20:00) Building a Supportive Community – Kayla shares why community is crucial and how she cultivated a network of supportive people. (24:30) The “Starting Lineup” Mindset – Kayla explains her concept of a personal “starting lineup,” focusing on surrounding yourself with people who uplift and inspire. (32:18) Advice for Embracing Change – Kayla offers advice for listeners feeling stuck and shares practical steps for pursuing a life aligned with personal values. About Kayla: Kayla Logue, a dynamic seven-figure real estate producer and author of "Always Squeezing Lemons," transformed her own life's challenges into a platform for empowering others through her role as a sought-after motivational speaker and coach. After completely rebuilding her life in 2020, she achieved remarkable success before age 30, demonstrating the power of radical responsibility and authentic leadership in both business and personal development. Through her nonprofit Move Into Words, Kayla champions sustainable mental health practices and personal growth, focusing on the transformative power of journaling and community building among young professionals.
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| 01 Aug 2024 | 41: Crucial Secrets for Aspiring Real Estate Investors: Avoid Costly Mistakes with Lindsay Lovell | 00:48:42 | |
In today’s informative and inspiring episode, Damon welcomes serial entrepreneur Lindsay Lovell to the podcast to share her transformative journey from a traditional career in private equity to becoming a highly successful real estate investor. Lindsay recounts how, despite initially following the conventional path to financial security, she soon realized her W-2 income wouldn't suffice for a comfortable retirement. Inspired by mentorship and self-education, she pivoted to real estate during the COVID-19 pandemic, and began investing in properties across the Midwest. Lindsay now owns over 72 properties - including long-term rentals and sober living homes - a testament to the power of leveraging real estate to build wealth and financial freedom. As you will here, her story, as shared here today, brilliantly demonstrates the importance of continuous learning, taking calculated risks, and seeking mentorship to achieve entrepreneurial success. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Introducing the podcast and today’s guest [02:25] Lindsay’s move from a secure job to entrepreneurship seeking financial and personal fulfillment. [04:56] Her initial real estate investment in Missouri. [08:04] Embracing risks in entrepreneurship. [12:30] The importance of mentorship in Lindsay’s journey. [13:42] Expansion into Sober Living Homes. [17:16] Building systems for work-life balance. [20:38] Strategic real estate planning. [24:22] Lindsay’s insights from starting a virtual assistant business. [28:35] Coaching and Continuous Learning. [35:28] Outsourcing and VA utilization. [42:41] Lindsay’s advice for new investors. [46:24] The value of continuous learning. About Our Guest: Lindsay Lovell is a passionate advocate for financial freedom and wealth creation through real estate investing. As a top real estate coach, she founded the Millionaires March course, offering personalized guidance and practical strategies to help individuals purchase and manage investment properties. With a portfolio of 72 properties, Lindsay's expertise spans long-term rentals, vacation homes, and mobile home parks. She co-founded G-VI Capital Management, managing over $15M in assets, and Wanderlust Stays, a vacation rental management company. Lindsay also engages in speaking events, inspiring audiences with tools for creating lasting wealth. Connect with Our Guest: Website: https://themillionairesmarch.com/ Website: https://g-vicap.com/ Website: https://wanderluststays.com/ Free Strategy Session: https://calendly.com/millionairesmarch/free-investing-strategy-session TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lindsayzanelovell?_t=8cZC5ohRxkV&_r=1 Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/lindsayzanelovell/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lindsay.zane | |||
| 12 Nov 2024 | 90: The Hidden Factor Behind 60% of Lost Sales (The JOLT Effect Method) | Matt Dixon | 00:59:12 | |
Are Your Best Deals Dying in Indecision? If your qualified sales opportunities mysteriously evaporating into "no decision" losses, even when customers seem sold on your solution, you're not alone. Research shows 40-60% of qualified pipeline deals end this way, and that number is climbing to 70-80% in today's uncertain environment. In this eye-opening episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast Matt Dixon, renowned sales researcher and bestselling author of The Challenger Sale and The JOLT Effect, sits down with Learnit CEO Damon Lembi to share the groundbreaking results of having analyzed 2.5 million sales conversations. He reveals why traditional sales tactics increase the likelihood of "no decision" losses and introduces a revolutionary framework for helping hesitant customers move forward with confidence. Dixon explains why 87% of senior executives are more indecisive than they admit, how fear of failure trumps fear of missing out, and what top performers do differently to close deals others lose to analysis paralysis.
This Episode Covers:
About Matt: Matt Dixon, Ph.D., is a leading global expert on sales and customer experience, known for his groundbreaking research that has revolutionized how organizations approach sales and service strategy. As founding partner of the research-driven consulting firm DCM Insights and author of multiple Wall Street Journal bestsellers including The Challenger Sale and The JOLT Effect, Matt has contributed over 20 articles to Harvard Business Review and advised hundreds of Fortune 500 executive teams on transforming their sales and customer experience approaches.
Resources Referenced: The JOLT Effect: How High Performers Overcome Customer Indecision by Matt Dixon The Challenger Sale: Taking Control of the Customer Conversation by Matt Dixon JOLTeffect.com - Tools and resources DCM Insights Website | |||
| 01 Nov 2024 | 86: The Walk-On Method: How to Turn Hard Work into Career Success | Jim Roddy | 00:56:27 | |
Are You Missing Out on Great Talent? What if the key to unlocking career and business success is hidden in the mindset of walk-on athletes—people who aren't chosen, but choose to show up? In this episode of The Learn-It-All Leader Podcast, Learnit CEO Damon Lembi interviews Jim Roddy, author of The Walk-On Method to Career and Business Success. Business leaders, this conversation isn’t just about sports; it's a game plan for developing resilience, maximizing strengths, and building high-performing teams. If you've ever struggled to get your team to push through challenges or wondered how to develop that 'extra gear,' this episode is for you. Learn how to develop resilience, maximize your strengths, and never quit with Jim Roddy’s insights. Damon and Jim explore the mindset and strategies that helped 31 athletes, who began as walk-ons, find remarkable success in their careers. Jim shares how the 'Walk-On Method' can transform not just individuals, but entire organizations. By taking big risks, focusing on resilience, and leveraging unique strengths, leaders can drive both personal and organizational growth. This episode will challenge you to rethink the way you build and lead your teams—moving from just showing up to exceeding expectations. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Jim Roddy – Damon introduces Jim Roddy, CEO, business coach, and author, and they dive into Jim’s background as a walk-on athlete and how it shaped his career. (02:00) What It Means to Be a Walk-On – Jim explains the concept of a walk-on, sharing his own journey and how the lessons he learned apply to the business world. (05:30) The Walk-On Method – Jim outlines his five-step Walk-On Method for success and explains how each step builds resilience and character. (09:00) Taking Feedback with Humility – Jim shares tips for leaders on accepting feedback, being open to criticism, and how it fuels growth. (12:33) Building a Culture of Accountability – Jim discusses the importance of accountability in teams and how leaders can inspire ownership and commitment. (17:00) Facing and Overcoming Obstacles – Jim recounts tough moments in his career and how the walk-on mindset helped him navigate challenges. (21:30) Developing Resilience – Jim emphasizes the importance of resilience, sharing practical advice on how to persevere in the face of setbacks. (33:18) Jim’s Advice for Aspiring Leaders – Jim offers final thoughts on building a successful career through hard work, dedication, and intentionality. About Jim: Jim Roddy, President and CEO of the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an accomplished business coach, author, and keynote speaker with over 25 years of leadership experience in retail IT and business management. He helps growth-focused leaders and entrepreneurs build high-performing teams by applying the resilience and strategies drawn from his book, The Walk-On Method to Career & Business Success, and his experience as a walk-on collegiate athlete. A cancer survivor, Jim's first book Hire Like You Just Beat Cancer focused on best practices in hiring through the... | |||
| 25 Jun 2024 | 28: Discover How to Build a Life You Never Want to Retire From | Kyle Gabhard | 00:50:28 | |
In this episode, Damon Lembi and Darren Bridgett sit down with Kyle Gabhart, a native Texan, serial entrepreneur, and managing partner of Bluegrass Legacy Group. Kyle shares insights from his book "Legends Don't Retire and Neither Should You," discussing financial planning, legacy building, and the importance of continuous learning. The conversation delves into personal stories, practical advice on managing finances, and the significance of living a purposeful life. Kyle's unique perspective, shaped by his experiences and challenges, offers listeners valuable lessons on creating a lasting impact. Episode Highlights: - Kyle's Story: Kyle shares his background, upbringing, and the experiences that shaped his approach to life and business. - Legacy and Financial Planning: Kyle discusses the concept of living a legacy rather than leaving one and provides practical tips for financial planning. - The Importance of Planning: Kyle explores the difference between having a plan and planning, emphasizing the need for flexibility and adaptability. - Personal Challenges and Growth: Kyle recounts personal challenges, including his diagnosis with ankylosing spondylitis and how it led to creating his board game, Arctic Scavengers. - Final Thoughts and Contact Information: The episode concludes with Kyle's final advice on living a meaningful life and details on how to connect with him. About Our Guest: Kyle Gabhart is a serial entrepreneur, author, and managing partner of Bluegrass Legacy Group, specializing in financial planning and legacy building. A native Texan, Kyle is a father of six and grandfather of two. He has written several books, including "Legends Don't Retire and Neither Should You," and is an engaging public speaker. In addition to his professional pursuits, Kyle designed and licensed a board game and actively engages in lifelong learning. Connect with Kyle: Website: http://bluegrasslegacygroup.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylegabheart Resources Referenced: - Legends Don't Retire and Neither Should You: https://a.co/d/0h7kquZ1 - Bluegrass Legacy Group: http://bluegrasslegacygroup.com Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. | |||
| 03 Apr 2024 | 13: Transforming Passion into Professional Success with Noel Braganza and Daniel Nilsson | 00:44:22 | |
Join us as we welcome the innovative entrepreneurial duo, Daniel Nilsson and Noel Braganza, co-founders of ventures like UpStrategy Lab and MuchSkills. Listen in as they share their inspiring journeys, from Daniel's leap into entrepreneurship seeking autonomy, to Noel's pursuit of piano mastery enhancing his digital product design. Our discussion reveals how nurturing personal passions not only enriches life but also fuels professional creativity and innovation. In this conversation, we uncover the multifaceted nature of success and the entrepreneurial mindset. Daniel and Noel share the nuances of business growth, from the challenges and rewards of teamwork to the inception of MuchSkills—a tool designed to make employee skills within an organization visible and strategic. Our guests challenge the traditional views of management, advocating for corporate structures that recognize and cultivate diverse skill sets. They share how creativity is not just confined to art but is evident in every aspect of work, including logical fields like bookkeeping. Tune in as we discuss the value of a curious mindset and the continuous pursuit of learning. Episode Highlights:
About Our Guests: Noel Braganza: Noel is a visionary entrepreneur and the Co-founder and Head of Product at Up Strategy Lab, MuchSkills, and NuLink Technologies. With a rich background in Interaction Design from the MIT Design Lab, Noel has masterfully blended technology with design usability and aesthetics. His commitment to scaling Up Strategy Lab into a beacon of diversity and inclusion showcases his dedication to creating a positive impact in the world through innovation and inclusive leadership. Daniel Nillson: Daniel is a dynamic force in the business world. His multifaceted career is driven by a passion for growth, innovation, and customer-centric approaches, leading him to co-found multiple companies and achieve significant success in diverse markets. Daniel's work ethic, marked by a unique blend of marketing expertise, entrepreneurial spirit, and a commitment to helping organizations and individuals thrive, is complemented by his personal pursuits in meditation, efficiency, and philanthropy through initiatives like One Life Dreams, emphasizing his belief in the power of dreams and the importance of giving back. Resources: | |||
| 27 Jun 2024 | 29: Overcoming Challenges and Finding Joy with Coleen Greco | 00:49:59 | |
Coleen Greco, Joyologist and host of the Joy Unleashed Show, joins The Learn-It-All Podcast to share her journey from corporate marketing to promoting well-being and happiness. Coleen discusses her SNAP methodology, which helps individuals create lasting change through mindset shifts. She opens up about her personal challenges, including her son's suicide attempt, and how these experiences shaped her mission to help others. The conversation touches on weight loss, the importance of mindset in overcoming obstacles, and finding joy in everyday moments. Episode Highlights: - Coleen's Background – Transition from corporate marketing to joyology and her personal journey. - SNAP Methodology – Explanation of Coleen's SNAP method for mindset change and overcoming triggers. - Personal Challenges – Coleen shares the story of her son's suicide attempt and its impact. - Weight Loss and Mindset – Discussion on the connection between mindset and weight loss. - Joy in Small Moments – Finding joy in everyday moments and its significance. About Out Guest: Coleen Greco is a joyologist, author, and keynote speaker dedicated to promoting well-being and happiness. With over 26 years in corporate marketing leadership, Coleen transitioned to helping others after a personal family crisis. She created the SNAP methodology to aid individuals in achieving lasting change through mindset shifts. Coleen also hosts the podcast "Joy Unleashed" and is passionate about helping others heal and find joy in their lives. Connect with Our Guest: Website: https://www.coleengreco.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coleengreco Resources Referenced: Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. | |||
| 09 May 2024 | 18: How This CEO Built A $10M IT Company From Scratch | Dan Hernandez | 00:44:56 | |
Dan Hernandez, founder of PCS Technology, shares valuable insights into IT and cybersecurity management. Emphasizing continuous learning as crucial for staying competitive, Dan discusses how nurturing a learning-focused work culture significantly reduces turnover and strengthens future leadership pipelines. His approach includes creating opportunities for employee advancement through mentorship and strategic shadowing programs. Additionally, Dan addresses the intricacies of cybersecurity, stressing the importance of vigilance and advanced compliance measures to protect against digital threats. The episode concludes with Dan's thoughts on the potential of automation in IT and his personal motivations, including his love for AC/DC, highlighting the blend of personal passion and professional development in driving industry success. Episode Highlights: (00:20) Lifelong Learning in IT and Business - Dan Hernandez shares expertise in IT, cybersecurity, and continuous learning, while emphasizing support for nonprofits and mentoring young talent. (10:14) Developing a Successful IT Team - Dan Hernandez shares insights on fostering a growth-oriented work culture at PCS, emphasizing technical foundation, shadowing, delegation, and outsourcing considerations. (21:09) Cybersecurity Tips and Best Practices - Cybersecurity, education, Compliance as a Service, personal data protection, ransomware incidents, and passion for tennis. (33:22) Embracing Automation and Cybersecurity in IT - Automation in IT services, cybersecurity threats, innovation, offshore teams, virtual chief security officer services, and passion for AC/DC. About Our Guest: Dan Hernandez is a dynamic leader in the tech industry, currently serving as the CEO of PCS Technology. Under his leadership, PCS Technology specializes in delivering outsourced managed services with a strong emphasis on cybersecurity solutions and Security as a Service. Dan's forward-thinking approach has propelled the company to the forefront of the cybersecurity field, ensuring that PCS Technology not only meets the current demands of the industry but also anticipates future challenges. His strategic vision focuses on innovation and robust security measures, positioning PCS Technology as a trusted partner for businesses seeking comprehensive and reliable IT and security solutions. Dan's leadership style is characterized by a deep commitment to excellence and a continuous pursuit of growth and learning within the rapidly evolving tech landscape. Outside of PCS Technologies, Dan is highly involved in volunteering and nonprofits. He sits on the board of Telegraph Hill Neighborhood Center, is a Committee Member for the Napa Valley Ride for ALS, and he is a Volunteer for the ALS Association. Resources: Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. | |||
| 06 Aug 2024 | 42: The Power of Choice: Transforming Lives and Leadership with David Katz | 00:47:17 | |
In this candid and inspiring episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, hosts Damon Lembi and Darren Bridget sit down with David Katz, the visionary founder of Plastic Bank. David opens up about his challenging childhood and the heart-wrenching loss of his child, sharing how these experiences fueled his passion for making a meaningful difference. An entrepreneur recognized globally for his groundbreaking work tackling both poverty and ocean plastic pollution, we discuss the power of choice, the importance of maintaining a gratitude mindset, and how Plastic Bank turns waste into wealth. Join us to learn more about the transformative potential of viewing challenges differently and the profound impact of creating systems where poverty can solve itself. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Introduction – Meet David Katz, founder of Plastic Bank, and learn about his impressive accolades and inspiring work. [02:18] The Plastic Bank Model – David explains how Plastic Bank operates by using plastic waste as a currency to provide essential goods and services to impoverished communities. [07:08] Solving Root Causes – Discussion on addressing the root cause of ocean plastic pollution by focusing on poverty. [0:14:51] Choosing Positivity and Abundance: The discussion focuses on the power of choosing a positive and abundant mindset. [15:48] Personal Transformation – David shares his personal story of overcoming adversity and choosing to see challenges as opportunities. [0:16:19] Overcoming Adversity Through Choice: The philosophy of finding gifts in adversity through positive choices. [24:28] Leadership and Empowerment – Insights on how leaders can inspire and support their teams through example and creating a space for growth. [0:33:50] Leadership and Empowerment: Explanation on how leaders can create environments that foster personal growth. [37:27] High-Fiving Your Team – The importance of acknowledging effort and presence over outcomes, illustrated through a touching personal story. [0:40:46] Intentional Choice and Creation: Importance of making intentional, unbiased choices. About Our Guest: David Katz is the founder of Plastic Bank, an innovative social enterprise that empowers communities to exchange plastic waste for valuable goods and services. Recognized as one of the world's most compassionate entrepreneurs, David has received numerous awards including the United Nations Lighthouse Award for Planetary Health and the Paris Climate Conference Sustainia Community Award. His inspiring TED Talk, "A Surprising Solution to Ocean Plastic," has reached a global audience. David's work has been featured in major publications like BBC, CNN, Time, and National Geographic, and he has appeared in documentaries and reality TV shows. Connect with Our Guest: Website: https://plasticbank.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-katz-4b66178/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/plasticbank/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/PlasticBank/ | |||
| 12 Dec 2024 | 102: Trapped in Your Own Success? Here’s Why | Rodric Lenhart | 00:32:17 | |
If you’ve ever climbed to a career peak only to realize it was the wrong mountain, this episode is for you. Successful entrepreneur and coach Rodric Lenhart shares how he built multiple seven and eight-figure businesses, traveled the world, and founded a nonprofit—all while avoiding the traditional hustle-and-grind mentality. Business leaders, if you're questioning your path or feeling stuck in a life that’s all about accumulating wealth at the expense of happiness, don’t miss this one! Learnit CEO Damon Lembi Rodric Lenhart, bestselling author of Million Dollar Flip Flops discuss how business leaders can avoid the trap of chasing success on the wrong terms. Drawing on personal experiences and hard-learned lessons, Rodric reveals the pivotal moments that led him to develop his unique WAVES Method, a decision filter that helps entrepreneurs reclaim their time, focus on their values, and find true purpose in both life and business. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Rodric Lenhart – Damon introduces Rodric, highlighting his entrepreneurial journey, bestselling book, and foundation. (01:43) The “Right Map, Wrong Mountain” – Rodric explains why many people climb the wrong mountain and how to identify your true path. (02:29) Rodric’s Early Entrepreneurial Journey – Rodric reflects on growing up with limited resources and how those experiences shaped his approach to life and business. (05:16) Lessons from Million Dollar Flip-Flops – Rodric introduces the WAVES method, a decision-making framework that aligns actions with purpose. (09:22) The Power of Values – Rodric emphasizes the importance of understanding your core values and how they guide fulfilling choices. (13:06) Travel and Leadership – Rodric discusses his foundation, Send a Student Leader Abroad, and the transformative power of travel. (18:00) Why Friends and Family Are the Worst Advisors – Rodric shares why well-meaning loved ones often hold us back and how to seek the right guidance. (25:11) Embracing Change and Quitting – Rodric highlights why it’s okay to pivot, quit, and realign when something no longer serves you. (31:35) Final Thoughts on Living with Intention – Damon and Rodric wrap up with actionable advice on building a life rooted in purpose and freedom. About Rodric: Rodric Lenhart is a seasoned entrepreneur, founder of Million Dollar Flip Flops, and author of a best-selling book by the same name. Having travelled to over 50 countries and with 30 years of experience building seven and eight-figure companies, Rodric dedicates his time as a certified business coach to helping entrepreneurs build businesses that align with their lives, donating all profits to his nonprofit, Send a Student Leader Abroad.
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| 10 Sep 2024 | 60: 3 Proven Tactics to Win Sales in Tough Times | Sujan Patel | 00:38:17 | |
In a world where software products and services seem to offer the same features, how can your brand truly stand out? Is the key to winning in a competitive market as simple as building trust, offering value, and focusing on long-term relationships? Sujan Patel believes it is. In this episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, host Damon Lembi sits down with Sujan Patel, serial entrepreneur and co-founder of Mailshake, a sales enablement software used by thousands of sales and marketing professionals. Sujan shares his insights on how to navigate the increasingly competitive SaaS market, how to build a brand that attracts customers, and why personal branding is just as important for individual sales professionals. Whether you’re in sales or marketing, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you stand out in today's crowded marketplace. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Sujan Patel – Damon introduces Sujan Patel and Mailshake, a sales enablement software, and sets the stage for a discussion on the state of SaaS sales today. (01:10) Current Trends in SaaS Sales – Sujan talks about the highly competitive SaaS landscape and what companies need to do to succeed in today's market. (05:03) Consultative Sales Approach – Sujan emphasizes the importance of a consultative sales approach, where the focus is on solving customer problems rather than pushing products. (09:18) Building a Personal Brand – Sujan discusses how sales reps can build their personal brand and how it benefits both the individual and the company. (24:21) Niche Targeting and Value-Based Pricing – Sujan explains how Mailshake targets specific customer niches and uses value-based pricing to win over customers in a competitive space. (35:01) Learning and Community Engagement – Sujan highlights the importance of continuous learning and building community within the sales profession. About Sujan: Sujan Patel is a serial entrepreneur, co-founder of Mailshake, and an expert in sales and marketing. With over a decade of experience, Sujan has built a strong personal brand and a reputation for helping sales professionals succeed in competitive markets. His work with Mailshake has impacted thousands of businesses by providing cutting-edge tools and insights for outbound sales. Sujan is also an active speaker and podcast host, sharing his knowledge on sales strategies and personal branding. Resources Referenced:
Podcast Contact: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. | |||
| 10 Apr 2024 | 14: The Hidden Skill Nobody Teaches: Unlock Leadership Insights | Blaine Bartlett | 00:41:27 | |
In this episode of the Learn It All podcast, we dive deep into the essence of leadership with the guidance of Blaine Bartlett, a distinguished figure in the field. Bartlett challenges the conventional command-and-control model, advocating instead for a more inclusive approach that encourages co-creation and shared objectives. He unveils the significance of transcending traditional profit motives to enhance life experiences, stressing the role of storytelling in leadership for shaping organizational narratives. Through an engaging discussion on managing diversity and fostering authentic connections, Bartlett introduces his five domains of leadership—awareness, context, communication, commitment, and trust. These elements, as Bartlett elaborates, are crucial for orchestrating effective movements within any organization. This episode not only promises to broaden your understanding of leadership but also offers actionable insights to refine your approach, making it a must-listen for anyone aiming to excel in leadership roles. Episode Highlights: (00:01) Leadership and Compassionate Capitalism - Leadership expert Blaine Bartlett discusses the essence of leadership, purpose of business, and success with insights from Bob Proctor. (12:28) Managing Across Generations in Business - Connecting individuals to meaningful work, soul in business, and authentic leadership in managing a multi-generational workforce. (19:42) Taking Action and Asking Questions - Overcoming decision paralysis by asking better questions, leveraging resources, and balancing dreaming and doing. (27:07) The Power of Storytelling and Leadership - Transformative power of storytelling in organizations, shaping perceptions, 360 feedback, altering narratives, maintaining relationships, five domains of leadership. (32:46) Leadership Domains and Effective Learning - Awareness, context, communication, commitment, and trust are essential for effective leadership and organizational growth. About Our Guest: Blaine Bartlett, a distinguished figure in the business and personal development spheres, embodies the essence of continuous growth and visionary leadership. His career, a testament to his commitment to lifelong learning and innovation, has positioned him as a beacon for both aspiring and seasoned leaders. As the CEO and President of Avatar Resources, Inc., Blaine has not only spearheaded transformative leadership programs worldwide but has also carved a niche as a highly sought-after executive coach. His influence extends into academia as an adjunct professor at China's prestigious Beijing University, where he molds the next generation of global leaders. Blaine's literary contributions, particularly his groundbreaking work, "Compassionate Capitalism," showcase his thought leadership and advocate for a business ethos that harmonizes profitability with the greater good. His unique perspective on leadership as an art form that can positively impact humanity sets him apart in a world clamoring for authentic, compassionate, and effective leadership. Resources: | |||
| 26 Dec 2024 | 108: The Best Leadership Lessons You Can Learn From Facing Setbacks | Alex Demczak | 00:46:05 | |
What happens when the identity you've built your entire career around suddenly disappears? How do you maintain integrity when faced with life-changing decisions? And how do leaders navigate major career transitions while staying true to their values? In this compelling episode, Alex Demczak shares his journey from SEC quarterback to being demoted to flag thrower, and how this profound shift in identity shaped his perspective on leadership, integrity, and personal growth. Now an author and leadership speaker, Alex explores how leaders can build trust, maintain integrity under pressure, and guide their teams through challenging transitions. This conversation offers practical insights for business leaders navigating personal and organizational change while building lasting success through principled leadership. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Alex Demczak – Damon introduces Alex, highlighting his career journey from SEC quarterback to leadership coach and author. (02:00) A Turning Point at Mizzou – Alex recounts being cut from the football team and the humbling experience of taking on a supporting role. (05:30) Leadership Without a Title – Alex shares how his time as a volunteer assistant taught him the true meaning of leadership and resilience. (09:00) The Power of Encouragement – Alex discusses how small acts of encouragement from teammates fueled his perseverance. (12:33) Embracing Vulnerability – Alex explains why sharing failures and struggles builds trust and connection. (17:00) Lessons from The Sale – Alex dives into the themes of integrity and long-term success explored in his co-authored book. (21:30) Building Trust Through Integrity – Alex emphasizes the importance of being a fully integrated leader and how it impacts team culture. (33:18) Final Thoughts on Leadership – Alex shares practical advice for leaders on creating alignment between values and actions. About Alex: A former SEC quarterback for the Missouri Tigers turned leadership expert, Alex Demczak is a sought-after keynote speaker who delivers around 40 speeches annually to organizations including the Cincinnati Reds, US Space Force, and Fortune 500 companies like Allstate and Bridgestone. He is the best-selling co-author of The Sale with Jon Gordon and founder of multiple ventures, including Speaker School and Streamline Books, where he helps others develop their speaking and writing careers. Beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors, Alex hosts three leadership-focused podcasts and specializes in helping high-performance leaders build integrity-based cultures while navigating significant transitions.
Resources Referenced: Alex Demczak on LinkedIn AlexSpeaking.com Alex's speaking website | |||
| 22 Oct 2024 | 79: How a Digital Mindset Secures Your Edge in AI | Tariq Munir | 01:05:02 | |
Are you ready to thrive in a future where artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just a tool but a coworker? In this episode of The Learn-It-All Leader Podcast, we tackle one of the most pressing challenges for leaders today: how do we navigate a world where AI is reshaping work and decision-making? If you’ve been wondering how to adapt and lead in this rapidly changing environment, this conversation is for you. In this engaging conversation, Learnit CEO Damon Lembi and international speaker and author Tariq Munir explore the critical skills leaders need in a world increasingly dominated by AI and digital transformation. This episode is a must-listen for any business leader or aspiring leader looking to understand and excel in a world where AI and digital literacy are no longer optional but essential. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Tariq Munir – Damon introduces Tariq Munir, digital transformation and AI expert, and they dive into the essential skills leaders need in the age of AI. (02:00) The Future of Work and AI – Tariq explains how AI is becoming a “non-organic coworker” and what this means for leaders and organizations. (05:30) Five Essential Leadership Skills – Tariq shares the five key skills leaders must develop: digital mindset, data-driven focus, emotional intelligence, ethical AI understanding, and continuous learning. (09:00) The Importance of Emotional Intelligence – Tariq discusses why emotional intelligence is crucial for leaders, especially in a world where face-to-face interaction is becoming less common. (12:33) Building a Digital Mindset – Tariq explains what it means to have a digital mindset and why leaders need to understand how digital networks, algorithms, and human interaction work together. (17:00) How AI Changes Leadership – Tariq reflects on how AI is shifting the power dynamic within organizations and how leaders can adapt to the democratization of information. (21:30) Continuous Learning and Adaptability – Tariq emphasizes the importance of fostering a continuous learning mindset in today’s fast-paced world where skills evolve rapidly. (33:18) Leading Through Digital Transformation – Tariq provides practical advice on how organizations can successfully navigate digital transformations, using case studies to illustrate common pitfalls.
About Tariq: Tariq Munir, author of AI for Finance Leaders, is an expert in AI, digital transformation, and leadership development, with over two decades of experience at global corporations like PepsiCo, AkzoNobel, and PwC. He has a proven track record of leading enterprise-wide transformations, leveraging technology to drive innovation and secure competitive advantages in rapidly evolving markets. A sought-after keynote speaker, Tariq has a proven track record of leading enterprise-wide transformations, leveraging technology to drive innovation and secure competitive advantages in rapidly evolving markets. Resources... | |||
| 09 Oct 2024 | 73: Learnit’s Origins: Damon Lembi on Family, Sports, and Building a Learning Legacy | 01:08:07 | |
What do you do when your big dream falls apart? Can you rebuild and come back stronger? In this special rebroadcasted episode, Learn-It-All Podcast host Damon Lembi takes the guest seat on Jeff Struecker’s Unbeatable Podcast for his “most candid conversation ever.” Jeff Struecker is a retired U.S. Army Ranger and a true American hero, having served seventeen military tours over five wars. He played a critical role in Black Hawk Down and was named U.S. Army Ranger of the Year in 1996. In preparing for this episode, Damon wanted to be as transparent and vulnerable as possible, and the result is a powerful conversation you won’t want to miss. In this exceptionally candid and personal interview, Damon opens up about his journey from aspiring baseball player to corporate leader and discusses how he overcame imposter syndrome, navigated the collapse of his family’s business, and copes with an ongoing life-changing health challenge. Damon’s story offers leaders valuable lessons on resilience, transparency, vulnerability and how to turn setbacks into fuel for future success. If you're a fan of the Learn-It-All Podcast and want to learn more about Damon, his background, and the story behind Learnit, this is the episode for you. This Episode Covers:
Chapters: (00:00) Introduction – The Learn-It-All Podcast host Damon Lembi introduces this special episode, where he appears as a guest on The Unbeatable Podcast with Jeff Struecker. (02:00) Baseball Dreams and Setbacks – Damon reflects on his journey as a high school baseball star and how he dealt with the disappointment of not making it to the major leagues. (05:30) Imposter Syndrome in College Sports – Damon discusses his struggles with self-doubt at Pepperdine University and how his coach helped him overcome imposter syndrome. (09:00) From Baseball to Business – Damon shares how his athletic experience shaped his approach to leadership and how he transitioned into his family’s business, LearnIt. (12:33) Navigating Business Challenges – Damon recounts the impact of the 2009 recession on his family’s real estate empire and how he led LearnIt through difficult times. (17:00) Facing Personal Health Challenges – Damon opens up about his diagnosis with a progressive eye condition and how he remains optimistic and resilient despite the challenges. (21:30) Lessons in Leadership and Transparency – Damon explains the importance of transparency and resilience as a leader, and how he applies those principles at LearnIt. (33:18) Advice for Aspiring Leaders – Damon offers final thoughts on leadership, resilience, and how to thrive in the face of adversity. About Damon: Damon Lembi is a 2x bestselling author, the host of The Learn-It-All Podcast, and CEO of Learnit – a live learning platform that has upskilled over 2 million people. Drawing from his prior baseball career, Damon brings an athlete’s perspective to leadership. Through his journey, he has gained invaluable insights into what helps organizations grow, how great leaders learn, and why learn-it-all companies outpace their competitors every time. Resources Referenced: | |||
| 21 Aug 2024 | 49: Why Great Leaders Don’t Solve Problems—They Coach Solutions | Damon Lembi | 00:05:01 | |
What’s the secret to empowering your team to solve problems on their own? In this quick yet insightful episode of The Learn-it-All Podcast, Damon explores the vital difference between guiding your team with support versus simply giving directives. Drawing from his own experiences and stories, Damon emphasizes the importance of empowering your team to find their own solutions rather than stepping in to fix every problem yourself. He shares personal anecdotes that highlight the value of giving your team the autonomy to learn and grow. If you’re looking to build a resilient, self-sufficient team that drives the future success of your company, this episode is packed with practical advice and actionable insights. Tune in to discover how you can lead with patience, foster a culture of growth, and ultimately scale your business by letting your team take the lead. Episode Highlights - Damon introduces the episode's focus on leadership, posing thought-provoking questions about how leaders respond to challenges presented by their teams. - The Sales Meeting Story: Damon shares a story from early in his career about guiding a new sales rep during a challenging client meeting without taking over, illustrating the value of letting others learn by doing. - The Importance of Not Being a Hero: Drawing from Mike Weinberg's Sales Management Simplified, Damon discusses the pitfalls of solving problems for your team instead of coaching them to find their own solutions. - Chris Dyer’s Leadership Lesson: Damon recounts a lesson from Chris Dyer about the dangers of being the bottleneck in an organization and how empowering others leads to scalability and growth. - Celebrating Mistakes and Building Autonomy: Damon talks about creating a culture where mistakes are viewed as learning opportunities, fostering an environment where team members feel energized and motivated to contribute innovative ideas. About Damon: Damon Lembi is the CEO of Learnit, a live learning platform that has upskilled over 2 million individuals in the past 30 years. With a deep passion for leadership development, Damon draws on his extensive experience to guide organizations in building strong, self-sufficient teams. He is a frequent speaker on leadership topics and is known for his engaging storytelling that brings practical insights to life. Connect with Damon: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damonlembi/ Damon’s Website: https://www.thelearnitallleader.com Resources Referenced: - Mike Weinberg's book Sales Management Simplified: https://a.co/d/1BS4kFm - Previous episode with Chris Dyer on The Learn-It-All Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3AJZUtPdzKVti584wKIbst?si=f34045deadec4870 Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: | |||
| 15 Jan 2025 | 117: Master These 11 Skills That AI Will Never Replace | Listening | 00:29:48 | |
Welcome to The Learn-It-All Podcast’s 11 Skills AI Will Never Replace-- our new 11-part special series exploring the essential human skills that AI cannot replicate. With the start of the new year, we’re all facing unprecedented technological disruption and workplace transformation. To help you thrive in this new landscape, we're excited to be partnering with MuchSkills, a platform that helps companies identify and track their employees' skills. Together, we've analyzed data from 28,000 professionals to identify the capabilities that will make you irreplaceable in an AI-enhanced workplace. Each week, we'll dive deep into one critical skill, providing you with actionable strategies and expert insights to future-proof your career. This series isn't just about adapting to change – it's about mastering the unique human abilities that will define leadership success in the age of AI. Master the Art of Deep Listening: A Critical Leadership Skill AI Can't Replace Are your listening skills truly as strong as you think they are? In an era of constant digital interruptions and mounting pressure to multitask, most leaders overestimate their listening abilities. In fact, according to research from The Workforce Institute,* 86% of employees feel they are not heard "fairly or equally," and 63% believe their voice has been ignored by their employer or manager. In this episode, host Damon Lembi and leadership expert Dr. Mickey Fitch-Collins dive deep into the often-overlooked power of authentic listening. They explore why most leaders think they're better listeners than they are and reveal practical strategies to elevate your listening from a basic communication skill into a leadership superpower that drives better decision-making, stronger relationships, and improved team performance. * https://www.ukg.com/workforce-institute This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00)Introduction to Listening as a Superpower – Damon and Mickey discuss the importance of mastering the skill of listening to thrive in the modern workplace. (03:30) The Importance of Empathy in Listening – Mickey shares a personal story illustrating the difference between listening to fix problems and listening to understand. (06:30) Listening as a Core Leadership Skill – They highlight how listening is crucial not only for leaders but for everyone in the workplace to foster connection and innovation. (10:15) Common Listening Pitfalls – Mickey talks about distractions, interrupting, and judgment as common barriers to effective listening. (17:00) The EAR Model of Listening – Mickey breaks down the components of the EAR model: Engagement, Attunement, and Respect, and how they can improve your... | |||
| 16 Jul 2024 | 34: From Warehouse To CEO in 12 Years | Ilias Simpson | 00:58:55 | |
In this episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, Damon and Darren welcome Ilias Simpson, a seasoned executive with a remarkable journey from warehouse supervisor to leading multi-billion dollar companies. Ilias shares his insights on the power of learning, leadership, and the importance of embracing diversity to build high-performing teams. From his early days in the military and on the football field to his impressive career in operations and leadership, Ilias' story is a testament to the transformative power of hard work, adaptability, and a genuine passion for people. Episode Highlights:
About Our Guest: Ilias Simpson is a seasoned executive with a proven track record of success in leading and transforming large organizations. He most recently served as President of a $3 billion healthcare services company and prior to that, was CEO of a global logistics company. Ilias is known for his ability to build high-performing teams, drive operational excellence, and inspire those around him. He is also a passionate advocate for diversity, inclusion, and creating opportunities for others to succeed. Connect With Our Ilias: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilias-simpson/ Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. | |||
| 13 Jun 2024 | 25: Why Creativity is Key for Every Leader | Christian Durso | 00:47:22 | |
In this episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, we welcome Christian Durso, Netflix Producer, playwright, and professional development facilitator. Christian shares his journey from New York to Los Angeles, highlighting his experiences in acting, writing, and teaching. The conversation delves into the intersection of creativity and professional development, exploring how skills from the arts can enhance leadership, innovation, and personal growth in a corporate setting. Christian also discusses his aspirations in fiction writing and instructional design, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and adaptability. Episode Highlights: [00:01:08] Introduction to Christian Durso – Christian's diverse background, including his work as an actor, playwright, and professional development instructor. [00:05:00] The Role of Integrity – Christian reflects on the importance of integrity in his career and the theater company he co-founded. [00:10:30] Creativity and Professional Development – Exploring the relationship between creativity and professional growth, and how artistic skills can benefit corporate settings. [00:18:45] Personal and Professional Aspirations – Christian's goals in fiction writing and instructional design, and his approach to continuous learning. [00:25:00] Overcoming Failure – Christian shares his experiences with failure and resilience, offering insights on how to keep moving forward in the face of setbacks. [00:35:00] Tips for Storytelling – Practical advice on how to become a better storyteller, including the value of learning to tell jokes and creating engaging narratives. [00:45:00] The Importance of Making Space for Creativity – Strategies for finding time to think creatively in a busy world, and the benefits of activities like reading and walking. [00:55:00] Lessons from International Work – Reflections on cross-cultural communication and management, and what Christian wishes he had known while working on international projects. About Our Guest: Christian Durso is an accomplished actor, playwright, and professional development instructor. He holds a BFA from NYU and has worked extensively in theater, television, and film, including executive producing a series for Netflix. Christian is also a valued instructor at Learnit, where he teaches courses on storytelling, creative problem-solving, and time management. His passion for continuous learning and his ability to bridge the gap between creativity and professionalism make him a unique and inspiring guest. Resources: The Creative Act by Rick Rubin Blue Ocean Strategy by W. Chan Kim and Renée Mauborgne Thinking Like a Rocket Scientist by Ozan Varol Connect with Christian... | |||
| 17 Sep 2024 | 63: The People-First Approach That Led to 3x Best Culture Awards in Canada | Dan Turner | 00:44:58 | |
What if a creative sales move could land your company its biggest contract yet? In this episode of The Learn-It-All Leader Podcast, Dan Turner, CEO of Xperigo, a company renowned for its exceptional culture and customer experience solutions, reveals how he secured a game-changing deal with Apple before the world even knew about the iPhone. This engaging episode offers powerful lessons for business leaders who want to stand out in competitive industries by making bold moves and fostering a winning company culture. From his humble beginnings as a tow truck driver to leading a multimillion-dollar business, Dan offers inspiring lessons for entrepreneurs and business leaders on taking calculated risks, creating a strong culture, and achieving success through persistence and creativity. This episode covers: - Dan’s inspiring story of going from tow truck driver to CEO - How to break down audacious goals into achievable steps - The importance of persistence and taking risks in your career - Building a positive corporate culture that wins awards - Why treating people the way you want to be treated is key to leadership
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Dan Turner – Damon introduces Dan Turner, President and CEO of Xperigo, and shares how his leadership has shaped the company’s award-winning culture. (01:55) From Tow Truck Driver to CEO – Dan shares his career journey, explaining how a pivotal story from the AAA president inspired his long-term goal to become a CEO. (05:35) Setting and Achieving Big Goals – Dan talks about the importance of setting a "big hairy audacious goal" and breaking it into smaller, manageable steps. (08:40) The Risks that Lead to Success – Dan explains how taking bold risks, like purchasing a computer early in his career, helped him stand out and get promoted. (12:10) How Confidence and Sports Shaped Leadership – Dan shares how his background in sports built the confidence and persistence needed for success in business. (16:00) Learning from Failure – Dan discusses two key failures in his career, including a business he started that didn’t succeed, and the valuable lessons he learned from those experiences. (20:32) The Bold Move that Landed the Apple Contract – Dan shares the creative approach he took to win a major contract with Apple, including attending a conference and presenting a proposal before the iPhone was even announced. (29:22) Building an Award-Winning Culture – Dan explains the approach that led Xperigo to win Canada’s Most Admired Corporate Culture Award three times, and how the company has built a culture of teamwork and transparency. (34:45) The Power of Purpose in Leadership – Dan discusses how the pandemic helped create a unifying purpose for his company, and how they’re working to maintain that purpose post-pandemic. (44:33) Where to Connect with Dan Turner – Dan shares how listeners can connect with him on LinkedIn. About Dan: Dan Turner is the President and CEO of Xperigo, a global leader in providing innovative mobility services and customer experience solutions. Under Dan’s leadership, Experigo has won Canada’s Most Admired Corporate Culture Award three times. Dan’s remarkable career journey from tow truck driver to CEO highlights the importance of persistence, risk-taking, and building a people-first culture. Resources Referenced: - Dan Turner’s LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danturner - Experigo Website: https://www.xperigo.com/ Podcast | |||
| 19 Sep 2024 | 64: This SVP Built a Winning Culture and High-Performing Team at the Atlanta Braves | Paul Adams | 00:44:45 | |
What if the key to long-term success wasn't just about winning games or closing deals but about building a culture that naturally fosters collaboration, trust, and growth? If you’re a leader struggling to retain top talent or build a high-performing team in an increasingly competitive market, this episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast is for you. Host Damon Lembi speaks with Paul Adams, Senior VP of Ticket Sales for the Atlanta Braves, who shares his 35 years of insights on cultivating a high-performing, enduring team in both sports and business. Paul reveals the secret to building teams that excel beyond individual talent—through creating a minor league-style development system and focusing on long-term employee growth and collaboration. This episode isn't just theory; it’s a deep dive into practical, actionable steps Paul has used with the Atlanta Braves to create a thriving sales team. Business leaders will discover how to apply these same principles to create high-performance cultures in any organization. Tune in to learn actionable strategies that can transform your team's culture and performance, regardless of industry. This Episode Covers:
Chapters: (00:00) Introduction to Paul Adams – Damon introduces Paul Adams, SVP of Ticket Sales for the Atlanta Braves, and sets the stage for a discussion on leadership and building a winning culture. (02:00) Building and Sustaining a High-Performing Sales Culture – Paul shares how the Atlanta Braves have built a culture of trust, collaboration, and continuous learning within the ticket sales team. (05:46) Hiring for Potential – Paul explains why the Braves hire based on potential and how their minor league-style training system helps develop future leaders. (09:00) Focusing on Strengths Over Weaknesses – Paul discusses why he believes in leveraging employees' strengths rather than spending too much time fixing their weaknesses. (12:33) Leadership by Example – Paul emphasizes the importance of leading by example and building trust through open communication and hands-on leadership. (17:42) Navigating Challenges and Change – Paul reflects on how the Braves’ leadership team adapted during the pandemic, using communication and relationship-building to stay connected with their fans. (21:30) The Role of Values in Leadership – Paul talks about how the Braves’ core values—commitment, trust, professionalism, and diversity—shape the team’s culture and guide their decision-making. (33:18) Leadership Advice for the Future – Paul offers his final thoughts on how leaders can leave a lasting impact on their teams by investing in people and maintaining a culture of continuous growth. Guest Bio: Paul Adams is the Senior Vice President of Ticket Sales for the Atlanta Braves, where he has worked for over 35 years. Paul has been instrumental in creating and maintaining a high-performing sales culture within the Braves organization, focusing on collaboration, trust, and continuous development. He is passionate about... | |||
| 08 Nov 2024 | 89: How to Build an AI-Ready Culture in Your Company | Ben Gold | 00:55:18 | |
Are you unsure how to harness the full potential of AI for your business? Take the first step toward future-proofing your organization with actionable strategies from AI strategist Ben Gold and start building your AI roadmap today. In this insightful episode of The Learn-It-All Leader Podcast, Learnit CEO Damon Lembi speaks with Ben Gold, an AI strategist who helps companies bridge the gap between technology and business objectives. Ben breaks down how businesses can leverage AI to become more efficient, strategic, and innovative. From eliminating manual tasks to enabling better decision-making, Ben offers actionable advice for leaders ready to embrace AI and avoid being left behind. He also addresses common misconceptions and shares strategies for overcoming internal pushback when adopting AI technologies. This is your opportunity to learn from a leading AI strategist with 20+ years of tech sales experience how AI can supercharge your organization, streamline operations, and drive strategic growth. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Ben Gold – Damon introduces Ben Gold, AI strategist, and they discuss the rapid advancements in AI and its transformative potential. (02:00) Understanding AI’s Capabilities – Ben shares how AI’s exponential growth can revolutionize data processing, workflow optimization, and decision-making. (06:00) Overcoming AI Adoption Challenges – Ben addresses common concerns from legal and security teams and explains ways to secure AI implementation in large organizations. (09:30) Leveraging AI for Efficiency – Ben provides examples of AI-driven tools that streamline work tasks, allowing teams to focus on high-value projects. (13:24) Setting Up an AI Council – Ben explains why establishing an AI council is critical and how it helps align AI initiatives across departments. (16:40) Practical Advice for Getting Started – Ben offers recommendations for leaders on identifying quick AI wins to build momentum in their organizations. (21:50) The Role of AI in Job Security – Ben discusses the importance of upskilling and why employees need to embrace AI to stay relevant in the job market. (33:00) The Future of Work – Damon and Ben wrap up with predictions on how AI will continue to reshape the workforce and tips on fostering a curious, adaptable mindset. About Ben Ben Gold is an AI strategist with over 20 years of experience in technology and a focus on leveraging AI to drive business growth and efficiency. He specializes in developing customized AI adoption strategies, ethical AI deployment, and helping companies navigate the complexities of AI in a rapidly evolving market. Through hands-on consulting, speaking engagements, and targeted programs, Ben empowers organizations and individuals to harness the power of AI for strategic advantage and career development.
Resources Referenced | |||
| 29 Aug 2024 | 54: Why The Resilience Plan is a Game-Changer for Leaders Today | Marie-Hélène Pelletier | 00:50:17 | |
How confident are you that your resilience strategies are truly effective? Are they flexible enough to adapt to new challenges, or are they rooted in outdated practices that no longer serve your team? In this episode of the Learn-It-All Podcast, Darren Bridgett sits down with Marie-Hélène Pelletier—a CEO, leadership psychologist, keynote speaker, and executive coach—to explore what it really takes to build resilience in the workplace. Marie-Hélène shares her transformative journey from a registered psychologist to leading mental health strategies for large organizations, culminating in her powerful book, The Resilience Plan. Together, they unpack why resilience isn’t just a personal endeavor but a systemic one that requires strategic planning and alignment with your core values. You’ll discover the dangers of relying on old, static resilience plans and why it’s crucial to evolve your strategies to meet today’s demands. This conversation offers fresh insights into how you can foster a resilient workforce that’s not only prepared for change but thrives in it. Topics Discussed:
Episode Highlights:
About Marie- Hélène Marie-Hélène Pelletier, PhD, MBA, is a CEO, leadership psychologist, keynote speaker, and executive coach with a unique blend of clinical expertise and business acumen. She has spent over two decades advancing workplace mental health and resilience strategies, working with large organizations and individual leaders to foster well-being. Her book, *The Resilience Plan*, is a testament to her strategic approach to building resilience in both personal and professional contexts. Marie-Hélène is a frequent speaker at conferences and a trusted advisor on mental health matters. Connect with Dr. Marie-Hélène... | |||
| 27 Dec 2024 | 109: What Working With David Bowie and U2 Taught This Entrepreneur About Business | Tony Michaelides | 01:15:03 | |
What if the secrets to leading high-performing teams could be found in how David Bowie managed his band or how U2 rose from playing to 11 people in a pub to becoming global superstars? In this fascinating episode, legendary music industry veteran Tony Michaelides shares powerful leadership insights gained from four decades of working with some of rock's biggest names. From David Bowie's approach to empowering talent to U2's relentless work ethic, Tony reveals how the principles that built legendary music careers apply directly to building successful businesses and teams. His stories and lessons challenge conventional wisdom about leadership while offering practical strategies any leader can use to build and motivate exceptional teams. This Episode Covers:
Chapters: (00:00) Introduction to Tony Michaelides – Damon introduces Tony, highlighting his incredible career in the music industry. (02:00) David Bowie: A Masterclass in Reinvention – Tony shares how Bowie’s constant evolution influenced his work and inspired innovation. (05:30) U2’s Rise to Stardom – Tony recounts the early days of U2, their work ethic, and the pivotal moments that led to their global success. (09:00) Storytelling as a Leadership Tool – Tony discusses how great storytelling builds trust and inspires teams to rally behind a vision. (12:33) Turning Setbacks into Success – Tony highlights lessons learned from the music industry on resilience and creating opportunities from challenges. (17:00) Collaboration and Trust – Tony explains why trust and collaboration are critical to building successful careers and teams. (33:18) The Future of Storytelling – Tony reflects on the enduring power of storytelling in music and business. (45:00) Final Thoughts on Leadership – Tony shares actionable advice for leaders on fostering curiosity, resilience, and connection. About Tony: Tony Michaelides, a music industry titan with over 50 years of experience, built one of the UK's most successful promotion companies while working with legendary artists including U2, David Bowie, The Police, and Whitney Houston. After receiving the prestigious "Alien of Extraordinary Ability" visa for his contributions to music and arts, he relocated to the USA where he transformed his unparalleled industry expertise into a successful consulting and speaking career. Now, as an author, podcast host, and international speaker, Michaelides shares leadership insights from rock and roll through his "Moments That Rock" platform, drawing on his experiences with music icons to bridge the worlds of artistic creativity and business leadership.
Resources Referenced: Tony Michaelides on LinkedIn | |||
| 12 Sep 2024 | 62: If You Want To Be A Great Leader, Master These 2 Skills | Simon T. Bailey | 00:39:28 | |
Are You Leveraging the Powerful Combo of Brilliance and Resilience? In today's challenging environment, it's not enough for leaders to just "bounce back"—the real question is, how can you thrive? How can you create a culture where your team's brilliance is unleashed, and their resilience strengthened? In this dynamic episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, hosts Darren Bridgett and Damon Lembi chat with Simon T. Bailey, a world-renowned expert in personal and professional development. Simon shares actionable strategies to help leaders tap into their own brilliance and resilience while fostering the same attributes in their teams. Tune in for fresh insights on how to unlock your team's full potential and why combining brilliance and resilience is the key to long-term success. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Simon T. Bailey – Darren introduces Simon T. Bailey, sharing his impressive background and career transition from Disney to becoming a keynote speaker and thought leader in brilliance and resilience. (01:29) Defining Brilliance – Simon explains what brilliance means and why it’s essential in today’s world, along with research insights on how creativity and intelligence can be unlocked in the workplace. (03:21) Simon’s Journey to Brilliance – Simon shares his story of working at Disney, making a career pivot, and how resilience and brilliance became his focus. (07:56) The Disney Difference – Simon tells a story from Disney’s The Lion King that illustrates how leaders can “plus up” the employee and customer experience. (09:28) Taking the Leap – Simon discusses the courage it took to leave Disney and pursue his passion for speaking, training, and consulting. (19:12) Developing Middle Managers – Simon emphasizes the importance of middle management in fostering a culture of resilience and brilliance within organizations. (22:09) Archetypes in the Workplace – Simon introduces the personality archetypes from his book Resilience at Workand explains how leaders can better support their teams by understanding these archetypes. (37:59) Serving vs. Selling – Simon shares a story about Arnold Palmer and the importance of focusing on emotional connection and service in sales. About Simon: Simon T. Bailey is a globally recognized keynote speaker, coach, and author who helps individuals and organizations unlock their brilliance and resilience. With over two decades of experience and a background at Disney, Simon has worked with more than 2,400 organizations worldwide. Through books, speeches, and coaching, Simon captivates the lives of countless individuals around the globe, inspiring them to lead better, stay curious, and embrace a growth mindset. He has been featured in Success Magazine’s Top 25 People Who Will Help You Reach Your Business and Life Goals and is a sought-after keynote speaker on the Leaders Hum Top 200 Power List for 2023. Simon is also the author of Resilience at Work: How to Coach Yourself into a Thriving Future. Resources Referenced:
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| 11 Jun 2024 | 24: Create High-Performing Teams: Trust-Building Techniques | Meredith Bell | 00:48:27 | |
Meredith Bell, co-founder and president of Grow Strong Leaders, joins The Learn-It-All Podcast to discuss the importance of continuous learning, effective leadership, and character development. Meredith discusses insights from her extensive experience in leadership development, emphasizing the value of creativity, vulnerability, and relationship-building in professional growth. The episode covers practical tips for leaders to enhance their communication skills and foster a supportive, growth-oriented environment within their teams. Episode Highlights: [00:02:00] Meredith's Learning Journey - Meredith shares her personal and professional journey, including the creation of Grow Strong Leaders and her commitment to lifelong learning. [00:09:00] Effective Leadership Tips - Practical advice for leaders on how to connect with their teams, listen actively, and ask the right questions to foster independent thinking. [00:20:00] The Importance of Self-Awareness - Discussion on the role of self-awareness in leadership and how tools like 360 feedback can enhance personal growth. [00:33:00] Developing Character Skills - Meredith introduces their new program focused on developing character skills, including honesty, integrity, and composure, through practical application and coaching. [00:42:00] Creating a Supportive Team Culture - The conversation wraps up with insights on building a positive team culture and the significance of loyalty and mutual support in achieving long-term success. About Our Guest: Meredith Bell is the co-founder and president of Grow Strong Leaders, a company dedicated to developing software tools and books that enhance communication and leadership skills. She has co-authored several books, including "Connect with Your Team: Mastering the Top 10 Communication Skills" and "Peer Coaching Made Simple." With over 30 years of experience, Meredith is passionate about helping leaders build strong relationships at work and in their personal lives. She is also the host of the "Grow Strong Leaders" podcast. Learn more about Meredith on her website and LinkedIn Resources Referenced - "Connect with Your Team: Mastering the Top 10 Communication Skills" - The Prosperous Coach by Steve Chandler and Rich Litvin Podcast Contact Information Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com | |||
| 29 Oct 2024 | 83: Fortune 500 CEO On The Blueprint for 21st-Century Leadership | Doug Conant | 01:09:32 | |
Are You Leading with Intention or Just Reacting to Whatever Comes Your Way? In a world that's increasingly "BANI" (Brittle, Anxious, Nonlinear, Incomprehensible), former Campbell Soup Company CEO Doug Conant shares how he transforms toxic workplace cultures into high-performing organizations by leading with intention. In this stand-out episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, Doug’s insights offer a blueprint for navigating today's complexities with a balanced approach to resilience, high performance, and purpose-driven leadership. He unpacks his leadership journey, from turning around Campbell Soup Company to establishing Conant Leadership and offers hard-earned lessons on building an enduring culture, emphasizing the importance of integrity, connection, and continuous personal growth. Sharing candid stories from his remarkable career journey – from being fired at age 32 to becoming CEO of a Fortune 500 company – Doug reveals why winning in the workplace must come before winning in the marketplace. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Doug Conant – Damon introduces Doug Conant, former CEO of Campbell Soup and founder of Conant Leadership, and they discuss his philosophy on leadership. (01:32) The Power of Deliberate Practice – Doug shares how deliberate practice shaped his leadership journey, starting from his time as a college tennis player. (05:30) Overcoming Setbacks and Building Resilience – Doug reflects on being fired at age 32 and how that experience helped him redefine his approach to leadership. (09:00) Writing 30,000 Thank-You Notes – Doug explains why he prioritized writing thank-you notes to employees and the impact it had on company culture. (12:33) Creating Accountability and Clarity – Doug emphasizes the importance of setting clear expectations and holding leaders accountable to inspire trust within teams. (17:00) The First Hour, First Day Approach – Doug introduces his “first hour, first day” practice for onboarding and establishing rapport with new team members. (21:30) Leading a Major Turnaround – Doug discusses his experiences at Campbell Soup Company, including the strategies that helped him transform the company’s culture and performance (33:18) Advice for Leaders in the 21st Century – Doug offers final thoughts on what... | |||
| 19 Nov 2024 | 93: He Went From Athlete To Leading Sales Expert With This Mindset | Charles Thompson | 00:49:50 | |
What if you could build trust with your team and make a real impact—not just in your sales numbers, but through genuine relationships? In this insightful episode of The Learn-It-All Leader Podcast, seasoned sales leader, Charles Thompson shares the stories of how he overcame personal challenges, applied leadership lessons from his sports to his business career, and redefined the role of a sales leader. Learnit CEO Damon Lembi and Director of Learning Experience Courtney Ritchie sit down with Charles to discuss the importance of competition, hard work, and trust-building for leaders and the role of personal branding—both inside and outside the workplace. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting out, Charles’s insights and actionable advice on trust, loyalty, competition, and personal branding will help you lead with more confidence and clarity. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Charles Thompson – Damon introduces Charles, former college athlete and sales leader, highlighting his journey from adversity to success. (02:00) Overcoming Early Challenges – Charles shares how growing up in a difficult environment and choosing football helped him stay on a positive path. (05:00) Lessons from Sports – Charles reflects on how sports taught him discipline, hard work, and the importance of loving what you do. (09:00) Transitioning Out of Athletics – Charles discusses the challenges of leaving football and finding a new passion in coaching and sales. (12:33) Mentorship and Coaching – Charles emphasizes the role of great coaches and mentors in shaping his decisions and helping him build resilience. (17:00) Becoming a Sales Leader – Charles shares insights on how he transitioned into sales and developed his leadership style. (21:30) Personal Branding on LinkedIn – Charles explains the importance of building a personal brand and how LinkedIn has transformed sales networking. (33:18) Advice for Young Sales Professionals – Charles offers practical advice for those starting their sales careers, emphasizing the value of competition, hard work, and authenticity.
About Charles: Charles Thompson is a sales leader with over eight years of experience, a former college football player, and a father of four (with a fifth on the way!). An account executive at Experian, he leverages his experiences in sports and coaching to help clients make confident decisions and build strong personal brands driving success in the data and analytics space. Charles is passionate about leadership, helping others, and building strong personal brands.
Resources Referenced: | |||
| 30 Aug 2024 | 55: The 5 Days of Workplace Wellness | Day #4 - The Secret to Lasting Healthy Eating Habits | Bindi Delaney | 00:15:36 | |
Are you unknowingly sabotaging your health every time you open the fridge? Discover the hidden habits that could be holding you back from the healthy life you deserve. This week, we're diving into the power of nutrition, the fourth of five topics in our Workplace Wellness series on the Learn-It-All Podcast. In this episode, wellness expert Bindi Delaney sits down with Damon to discuss how small changes in your eating habits can be a game-changer for lasting health and professional success. Bindi shares three key steps to reshape your approach to eating and revolutionize your relationship with food, both at work and in your personal life. Blending personal stories with science-backed insights, we’ll show you how simple strategies can drive significant improvements in your overall well-being. Tune in now to discover how to leverage these nutrition tips for better health and increased productivity. Don’t miss this chance to transform your approach to wellness in the workplace. Topics Covered:
Episode Highlights: (00:02) Introduction – Damon and Bindi discuss the importance of nutrition and the challenges of maintaining a healthy diet. (00:54) Visibility of Food – Bindi emphasizes the impact of food visibility on our choices and shares tips for organizing the fridge. (06:26) Meal Prepping and Family Involvement – Discussing strategies to make meal prepping a family activity and how it can improve eating habits. (11:48) Timing of Eating – The importance of not eating late in the evening and its connection to better sleep and overall health. (12:45) Mindful Eating– Bindi advocates for being mindful of the textures, smells, and flavors of food to enhance the eating experience. About Bindi: Bindi Delaney is a wellness expert with a focus on nutrition and holistic health. With years of experience in guiding individuals and families toward healthier lifestyles, Bindi is passionate about making wellness accessible and enjoyable. She brings practical tips and relatable insights to her discussions, encouraging listeners to make small changes that can lead to significant improvements in their health and well-being. Connect with Bindi: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bindi-delaney-499087297/ Learnit: https://www.learnit.com Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com | |||
| 02 Jul 2024 | 30: How Entrepreneurs Can Fix Capitalism: Innovative Strategies | Hunter Hastings | 00:43:34 | |
Hunter Hastings, an economist and venture capitalist joins The Learn-It-All Podcast to discuss the shifting perspectives on capitalism, particularly among younger generations. Together with Damon and Darren, they explore the reasons behind the decline in support for capitalism, highlighting the distrust in corporations and the rise of "customer capitalism" as a solution. Hunter shares his latest book, Aberrant Capitalism, which examines the historical evolution of corporations and the need to re-inject empathy and customer focus into business models. The conversation covers the impact of financialization, the role of self-management in organizations, and the future of business education in fostering an entrepreneurial ethic.
Episode Highlights: - Hunter's Background – Hunter shares his journey from economist to venture capitalist. - Decline of Capitalism – Discussion on why young people are losing faith in capitalism and corporations. - Evolution of Corporations – Historical perspective on the development and bureaucratization of corporations. - Financialization – Exploration of how financialization diverts value from customers to shareholders. - Future of Business Education – The need for a shift towards customer-focused, entrepreneurial business education.
About Our Guest: Hunter Hastings is an economist turned venture capitalist with extensive experience in marketing and business strategies. He has authored five books, including his latest, Aberrant Capitalism: The Decline of Customer Capitalism. Hunter is also the host of the Value Creators podcast, where he explores innovative approaches to business and value creation. With a background that includes leadership roles at Procter & Gamble and a venture capital fund, Hunter brings a wealth of knowledge on how businesses can better serve customers and foster innovation.
Connect With Our Guest: - Hunter Hastings Website
Resources Referenced: Podcast Contact Information: Website: [www.learnit.com](http://www.learnit.com) Email: [podcast@learnit.com](mailto:podcast@learnit.com) Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. | |||
| 17 Oct 2024 | 77: Why Lazy CEOs Get More Done by Doing Less | Jim Schleckser | 00:55:05 | |
Could your leadership style be holding your business back? In this episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, CEO advisor and Great CEOs Are Lazy author Jim Schleckser shares a counterintuitive approach that top CEOs use to solve their biggest business challenges—without sacrificing work-life balance—and explains why the real secret to success isn’t working harder; it’s focusing on the right problems. Jim joins Learnit CEO Damon Lembi for a candid conversation on what separates high-performing CEOs from those constantly caught in the weeds. Jim draws on his experience advising over 3,000 CEOs and reveals why focusing on fewer things—especially your company’s constraints—can unlock massive growth. Whether you’re scaling your company, dealing with leadership challenges, or just looking for ways to reclaim your time, this episode will help you sharpen your focus and lead more effectively. This Episode Covers
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction – Damon introduces Jim Schleckser and dives into Jim’s philosophy of being a “lazy” CEO and how it can lead to greater success. (02:00) What It Means to Be a “Lazy” CEO – Jim explains how focusing on the most important tasks, rather than spreading yourself too thin, leads to better results. (05:30) Finding and Fixing the “Kink in the Hose” – Jim discusses the theory of constraints and how CEOs can identify the biggest barriers to growth in their business. (09:00) The Five Hats Every CEO Must Wear – Jim outlines the five critical roles CEOs play: Learner, Architect, Engineer, Player, and Coach. (12:33) Mastering Delegation – Jim shares how effective delegation not only lightens your workload but also develops your team’s skills and confidence. (17:00) The Power of Learning – Damon reflects on the importance of continuous learning as a leader and why it’s crucial for long-term success. (21:30) CEO Peer Groups and the Value of Outside Perspectives – Jim discusses the importance of joining peer groups to gain fresh insights and solve complex challenges with other leaders. (33:18) Final Thoughts on Leadership – Damon and Jim wrap up the conversation with actionable advice on how CEOs can work smarter and build better teams. About Jim Jim Schleckser, founder and CEO of The CEO Project, is a seasoned advisor to high-growth company CEOs with over 25 years of senior leadership experience across various industries. As the author of Great CEOs Are Lazy and host of The Lazy CEO podcast, Jim challenges traditional leadership norms while helping CEOs identify and solve their companies' most critical constraints. His approach, which combines strategic insight with a deep understanding of the human side of leadership, has led to impressive results for his clients, including multimillion-dollar profit increases and successful public offerings.
Resources Referenced: | |||
| 27 Aug 2024 | 52: Unlocking Elite Team Performance: Insider Secrets from Top Athletes | Jay Dixon | 00:35:51 | |
Is your business missing out on untapped leadership potential? What if the key to building resilient, high-performing teams lies in the very skills that athletes hone on the field? In this episode of the Learn It All Podcast, Damon Lembi sits down with former Division I football player and successful entrepreneur, Jay Dixon, to explore how athletes can transition seamlessly into the business world and become exceptional leaders. This episode is packed with insights for business leaders looking to harness the unique skills of former athletes. Learn how mental resilience, teamwork, and a growth mindset—core attributes developed through sports—translate directly into business success. Jay Dixon also introduces a groundbreaking approach to entrepreneurship that goes beyond the startup model.
Chapter Highlights (01:08) From the Gridiron to the Boardroom: Jay’s Journey - Jay recounts his early football days, his drive to achieve a Division I scholarship, and the tough transition from athlete to entrepreneur. (06:59) The Identity Crisis Post-Sports - Explore the challenges athletes face when their sports careers end and how Jay overcame the identity gap, offering lessons for anyone dealing with a major career pivot. (13:28) Bridging the Gap: Writing ‘After the Game’ - Jay discusses the inspiration behind his book, aimed at helping athletes transition into thriving entrepreneurs, and why this message is more relevant than ever. (30:04) Why Athletes Make Great CEOs - Supported by statistics and research, Jay explains why former athletes are exceptionally well-suited for leadership roles in business. (35:45) Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) -Jay introduces the ETA model, a game-changing strategy for acquiring and growing existing businesses rather than starting from scratch—perfect for those who want to skip the high failure rates of startups. About Jay: Jay Dixon is a former Division I football player turned entrepreneur with three successful business exits. He is the author of After the Game: Bridging the Gap from Winning Athlete to Thriving Entrepreneur, a guide for athletes transitioning into the business world. Jay is dedicated to empowering former athletes to become successful business leaders through innovative approaches like Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA). Connect with Jay: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-dixon-mergers-acquisitions-entrepreneur/ Website: https://www.successcoach.com Resources Referenced - After the Game: Bridging the Gap from Winning Athlete to Thriving Entrepreneur - | |||
| 28 Aug 2024 | 53: 10 Ways to Stand Out in Sales: Traits of Top Producers | Damon Lembi | 00:10:36 | |
Are you struggling to stand out in a saturated sales market? In today's hyper-competitive environment, being good isn't good enough—being exceptional is the only way to survive. In this solo episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, Damon Lembi, CEO of Learnit, unveils ten game-changing traits that distinguish top performers from the rest. With competition intensifying and budgets shrinking, this episode is your roadmap to not just surviving but dominating the buyer's market. Damon breaks down actionable strategies that will empower you to close deals, forge strong relationships, and make a lasting impact in today’s demanding landscape. Don't just keep up—get ahead. Tune in to discover what it takes to thrive. Topics Covered:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to B2B Sales Challenges – Damon introduces the episode by discussing the current state of B2B sales and the increased need for top-performing sales reps. (01:44) Be Different – The importance of standing out in a crowded market by being creative and making a memorable first impression. (02:24) Curiosity and Listening – Damon discusses the significance of asking questions and actively listening to understand the client's needs better. (04:22) Authenticity in Sales – Why being yourself and building trust are crucial in sales interactions. (05:32) Discipline and Fundamentals – The role of discipline and sticking to sales fundamentals in achieving success. (07:32) Business Acumen and Learning Agility – The need for continuous learning and understanding the client's business to add value and become a trusted advisor. About Damon: Damon Lembi is the CEO of Learnit, a live learning platform that has upskilled over 2 million individuals in the past 30 years. With a deep passion for leadership and sales development, Damon draws on his extensive experience to guide sales professionals in becoming top performers. He is a frequent speaker on leadership and sales topics and is known for his engaging storytelling that brings practical insights to life. Connect with Damon: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/damonlembi Instagram: www.instagram.com/damonlembi Learnit: www.learnit.com Resources Referenced - Fanatical Prospecting by Jeb Blunt: https://www.amazon.com/Fanatical-Prospecting-Complete-Successful-Telephone/dp/1119144752 - Selling from the Heart by Larry Levine: https://www.amazon.com/Selling-Heart-Relationships-Increasing-Authenticity/dp/1938015407 - Anthony Iannarino's Website: https://thesalesblog.com Podcast Contact Website: www.learnit.com | |||
| 03 Sep 2024 | 56: Leading with Relentless Curiosity and Growth | Carlos Cody | 00:42:01 | |
Unlocking Leadership Potential: How Curiosity Can Transform Your Business Are you constantly searching for the key to enhancing your team's performance and elevating your leadership game? The key to unlocking that next step might be simpler than you think: relentless curiosity. In this wide-ranging episode of The Learn-It-All Leader Podcast, host Damon Lembi sits down with Carlos Cody, Senior Operations Manager at Target, a leader who’s deeply committed to continuous learning. Carlos talks about how he shifted from a traditional leadership mindset to one fueled by curiosity, unlocking not just his own potential but that of his entire team. If you’re a leader looking to break through barriers and inspire your people, this episode is loaded with actionable insights tailored for you. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction – Damon introduces the episode and guest, highlighting Carlos Cody’s background as a senior operations leader and his mission to inspire and empower others. (01:25) Lessons from Sports – Carlos discusses how his experience as a college athlete shaped his leadership style, particularly the importance of feedback and vision. (06:44) Leaders are Learners – Carlos explains why continuous learning is essential for leadership and shares practical tips on how to apply what you learn in real-time. (12:06) Navigating Leadership Challenges – Carlos shares stories from his career about leading in difficult environments, emphasizing the power of influence and empathy. (16:02) The GROW Model – Carlos introduces his coaching framework, the GROW model, and how it helps him develop his team members and align their goals with the organization’s objectives. (37:01) Learning from Failure – Carlos recounts a significant learning experience at Amazon, illustrating the importance of communication and risk management in leadership. About Carlos Cody: Carlos Cody is a senior operations leader with extensive experience in transformational leadership at top-tier companies like Amazon and Target. With a background as a college athlete, Carlos has honed his leadership skills through real-world challenges and is passionate about inspiring, motivating, and empowering others to reach their full potential. Known for his active presence on LinkedIn, Carlos regularly shares leadership tips and insights, helping others navigate their own leadership journeys. Connect with Carlos: - Carlos Cody's LinkedIn Profile Resources Referenced: - The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John Maxwell Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com | |||
| 04 Nov 2024 | 87: The Secret to Building True Belonging in Divisive Times | Dov Baron | 01:01:47 | |
Is Your Organization Really as Divided as You Think? With political tensions running high and workplace polarization making headlines, how can leaders create genuine connection and belonging across perceived divisions? What if the deep rifts we see are more illusion than reality? In this timely and profound conversation, global leadership expert Dov Baron challenges conventional wisdom about division and polarization in organizations. Twice recognized among the world's Top 30 Global Leadership Gurus, Dov Baron transformed from poverty in Northern England to become a leading authority on authentic leadership through his pioneering "Emotional Source Code" methodology. A bestselling author and host of Apple's #1 podcast for Fortune 500 executives, Baron helps elite leaders and global organizations create purpose-driven cultures that foster unprecedented loyalty, presenting his insights at venues like the United Nations. His influential books "One Red Thread" and "Fiercely Loyal" continue to shape modern leadership thinking, earning him recognition from Inc. Magazine as a Top 100 Leadership Speaker. This Episode Covers: • Why the perception of widespread division is often exaggerated and how only 21% of people are truly polarized • The critical difference between "fitting in" and "belonging" in organizational culture • How reciprocal vulnerability builds deep trust and stronger relationships • Why meaningful work matters more than money for employee loyalty (once basic needs are met) • Why leaders must model vulnerability first but need emotional maturity to do it effectively • The importance of examining the "subculture" rather than written culture documents • How focusing on shared purpose can bridge seemingly insurmountable differences
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Dov Baron – Damon introduces Dov Baron, global leadership expert, and they discuss the challenges of connection in today’s divided world. (02:00) The Illusion of Division – Dov shares his insights on why society appears more divided than it actually is and how media amplifies fear and conflict. (05:30) Emotional Source Code – Dov explains his “emotional source code” concept and how it shapes individual and organizational identities. (09:00) Building Genuine Belonging – Dov discusses the importance of belonging in the workplace and how leaders can foster an environment where people feel truly valued. (12:33) The Role of Vulnerability in Leadership – Dov emphasizes why vulnerability is essential for leaders and how it builds trust and connection within teams. (17:00) Facilitating Healthy Conflict – Dov provides practical advice on managing conflict in a way that deepens relationships rather than divides. (21:30) Connecting Through Shared Values – Dov explains how identifying common values can help leaders unify their teams, even across ideological differences. (33:18) Final Thoughts on Leadership and Connection – Damon and Dov conclude with actionable advice for leaders on fostering a purpose-driven, inclusive culture. About Dov: Twice recognized among the world's Top 30 Global Leadership Gurus, Dov Baron transformed from poverty in Northern England to become a leading authority on authentic leadership through his pioneering "Emotional Source Code" methodology. A bestselling author and host of Apple's #1 podcast for Fortune 500 executives, Baron helps elite leaders and global organizations create purpose-driven cultures that foster unprecedented loyalty, presenting his insights at venues like the United Nations. His influential books "One Red Thread" and "Fiercely Loyal" continue to shape modern... | |||
| 22 Nov 2024 | 95: The #1 Reason Most Business Strategies Never Work (Do This Instead) | Tim Ohai | 00:43:58 | |
Are Your Employees Playing a Game They Don't Understand? Did you know that 95% of employees across industries either don't understand or don't know their company's strategy? In this revealing episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, growth architect Tim Ohai challenges conventional wisdom about strategy and shares how leaders can transform their organizations by creating environments where great decisions happen at every level. Drawing from both professional experience and profound personal challenges, Tim explores how fear-based leadership creates dysfunction, while clarity and empowerment drive sustainable growth. He introduces a revolutionary framework for strategic execution that replaces rigid planning with dynamic decision-making and reveals how leaders can maintain effectiveness under pressure by managing their psychological state. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Tim Ohai – Damon introduces Tim Ohai, founder of Kopu Solutions, and sets the stage for a discussion on emergent strategy and leadership. (01:20) Redefining Strategy – Tim explains why strategy is a decision-making process and how traditional approaches often miss the mark. (03:55) From Plans to Execution – Tim discusses the concept of emergent strategy and how leaders can create environments where decisions align with clear outcomes. (06:28) Addressing Organizational Dysfunction – Tim highlights the pitfalls of unclear communication and misaligned goals, sharing practical advice on overcoming these challenges. (09:00) Healthy Conflict and Empowerment – Tim emphasizes the value of fostering healthy conflict to drive innovation and accountability within teams. (12:33) Managing Stress and Resilience – Tim shares his personal journey with stress and grief, offering insights into maintaining composure and focus as a leader. (20:00) Practical Leadership Examples – Tim provides real-world examples of leaders who successfully transformed their teams by implementing clarity, alignment, and empowerment. (33:18) Final Thoughts on Strategic Execution – Damon and Tim wrap up with key takeaways on building trust, fostering a culture of accountability, and redefining leadership. About Tim: Tim Ohai, founder of Kopu Solutions and a distinguished growth architect, specializes in transforming organizational performance by bridging the gap between business strategy and human potential. As a seasoned executive coach and business effectiveness leader with notable successes at major tech companies and retailers, he has demonstrated the ability to dramatically improve metrics like sales performance and win rates through his unique approach of combining psychological insights with proven business practices. Having founded a charity in Africa and drawing from his diverse background as a proud Celt and Hawaiian, Tim brings a rich global perspective to his work helping leaders identify and overcome performance barriers. His impressive track... | |||
| 10 Oct 2024 | 74: Former Amazon VP Shares 5 Steps To Leveling Up Your Career Fast | Ethan Evans | 01:05:09 | |
How do successful executives bridge the gap between professional success and personal satisfaction? If you’re a business leader looking to take your career to the next level while also finding deeper fulfillment, or if you’re ready to uncover the skills and strategies that will propel you from management to the executive level, this episode is for you. In this episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, hosts Damon Lembi and Darren Bridgett sit down with Ethan Evans, former VP at Amazon who played a pivotal role in the creation of Prime Video and led global teams of over 800 people. With 70+ patents and a wealth of experience, Ethan shares his personal insights about how emotional intelligence, adaptability, and human connection shaped his path to executive leadership. From navigating complex team dynamics to transitioning into impactful leadership roles, Ethan offers practical advice for anyone looking to rise to the top of their field without losing a sense of purpose. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Ethan Evans – Damon and Darren introduce Ethan Evans, former Amazon VP, and set up the conversation around career growth and leadership. (01:55) From Engineer to Executive – Ethan shares how his love for engineering evolved into a passion for leadership, leading to his eventual role as VP at Amazon. (05:30) Emotional Intelligence and Leadership – Ethan discusses the importance of emotional intelligence and how developing soft skills helped him manage large teams and grow as a leader. (08:40) The Power of Adaptability – Ethan talks about how being adaptable and learning from failures shaped his leadership style. (12:00) How to Manage Up – Ethan shares his "Magic Loop" strategy for effectively managing relationships with your boss and climbing the corporate ladder. (17:00) Finding Meaning in Your Work – Ethan explains how he discovered purpose in his work and why it’s important for leaders to help their teams find meaning as well. (23:10) Managing Overload and Delegation – Ethan discusses how to handle growing responsibilities without burning out, especially as you move up in leadership roles. (29:20) Key Strategies for Transitioning from Manager to Executive – Ethan outlines the essential skills and behaviors needed to make the leap from manager to executive. (34:00) The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership – Ethan emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence in leading teams effectively, particularly during times of stress and change. (44:15) Where to Connect with Ethan Evans – Ethan shares how listeners can connect with him on LinkedIn and learn more from his daily posts and writings. About Ethan: Ethan... | |||
| 20 Mar 2024 | 11: Master Cultural Agility: How To Be Successful Working Across Cultures | Paula Caligiuri | 00:39:06 | |
Cultivating Cultural Agility: Paula Caligiuri’s Guide to Thriving in Global Business and Leadership In this episode of The Learn-It-All podcast, Paula Caligiuri, an expert in organizational psychology, dives into the nuances of Cultural Agility, enlightening listeners on how early cultural conditioning impacts professional interactions globally. With a focus on navigating the complexities of multicultural leadership, Paula shares valuable insights on authenticity, adaptability, and the importance of humility and empathy in crafting a meaningful leadership legacy. Through engaging stories and expert advice, Paula emphasizes the critical role of cultural assessments and the power of embracing our limitations. Moreover, she explores the vital link between career development and cultural agility, urging us to pursue career paths aligned with our values and to embrace diversity not just as a professional asset but as a cornerstone for a fulfilling life. This episode is packed with wisdom for anyone aiming to excel in the international business arena while fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity. Episode Highlights
About Paula Caligiru: Paula Caligiuri works extensively with leading organizations and universities on the development of individuals’ cultural agility and career success. She has authored and co-authored several articles and books – including Cultural Agility: Building a Pipeline of Successful Global Professionals, Build Your Cultural Agility, and Get a Life, Not a Job. Paula is an instructor for a LinkedIn Learning course entitled Managing Globally. She holds a Ph.D. from Penn State University in Industrial and Organizational Psychology and is a Fellow in both the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology and the Academy of International Business. Resources: Podcast Contact Information: - Website: www.learnit.com | |||
| 20 Aug 2024 | 48: Why Transparency is a Game-Changer for Today’s Leaders: A Culture Playbook with Chris Dyer | 00:45:57 | |
Have you ever felt like you’re the bottleneck of your organization, maybe even slowing the very growth you’re trying to achieve? What if the secret to unleashing your team's potential lies in a single, yet often overlooked, principle: transparency? "I had to look myself in the mirror and go, yeah, it's me. I'm the problem." In this compelling episode of The Learn-It-All Leader Podcast, host Damon Lembi sits down with Chris Dyer, a global thought leader on leadership and culture, to explore the transformative power of transparency in the workplace. Chris shares his personal journey from realizing he was the bottleneck in his organization to fostering a culture that empowers employees and drives unprecedented success. Full of practical insights and actionable practices, Chris explains how transparency not only boosts team morale but also catalyzes innovation and productivity. If you’re a business leader looking to create a more agile, effective, and engaged workforce, this episode is a must-listen.
About Chris Known as “Mr. Culture,” Chris Dyer is a highly sought-after expert in company culture and remote work, recognized by Inc. Magazine as the #1 Leadership Speaker on Culture. As the former CEO of a company that was consistently named a top workplace and a five-time honoree on Inc.Magazine’s list of the fastest-growing companies, Chris is a three-time bestselling author whose practical insights and his renowned 7 Pillar Strategy have helped leaders worldwide build high-performing and engaged teams, making him a top 50 Global Thought Leader and a top 40 Change Management Guru. Connect with Chris: Website: chrisdyer.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisdyer7/ One Question Survey by Chris Dyer: Text 33777 with the message "Chris" to receive the PDF TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chrisdyer.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chrispdyer7 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrispdyer7/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChrisDyer X: | |||
| 17 Apr 2024 | 15: Transform Your Toughest Days with This NFL Mindset | Marques Ogden | 00:43:00 | |
Join us on "The Learn-It-All Podcast" as we sit down with Marques Ogden, former NFL star and CEO of Ogden Ventures, to dive into his extraordinary journey from the peaks of the football field and later an eight-figure business to the valleys of bankruptcy and the powerful lessons learned along the way. Marques's candid discussion on overcoming professional setbacks, coupled with insights on finding a sustainable balance between passion and practicality, and the importance of grit, networking, and authenticity in career development, offers an inspiring blueprint for turning adversity into a foundation for success. His parting wisdom, "Authenticity creates victory," underscores the episode's core message: embracing continuous learning and genuine self-expression is key to achieving lasting success. Episode Highlights: (00:01) Overcoming Adversity and Authentic Success - Former NFL player Marques Ogden shares his journey from sports to entrepreneurship, highlighting hard work, humility, and learning from life's toughest lessons. (13:07) Aligning Passion With Realistic Career Goals - Passion and practicality in career, self-awareness, hard work, content creation, networking, grit, drive, and realistic self-assessment. (20:36) Building Trust and Connections for Success - Harness past experiences to succeed in corporate world by translating skills, remembering details, and building relationships. (25:06) Struggles and Authenticity in Business - Challenges of generating revenue, importance of marketing, embracing vulnerability, value of failure, and trust in leadership. (37:15) Podcast Profit Workshop and Coaching - Persistence, marketing, scheduling, engaging content, guests, monetization, finding direction, personal passions, and ways to connect. (42:37) Authenticity Creates Victory in Life - Authenticity is the key to success in life, as exemplified by our guest Marcus, who embodies genuine self-expression. About Our Guest: Marques Ogden, a former NFL offensive lineman turned successful entrepreneur, is the CEO of Ogden Ventures LLC. After his five-year tenure in the NFL, where he played for teams including the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Baltimore Ravens, Ogden transitioned into the business world, experiencing the highs of running an eight-figure construction company before facing the humbling lows of bankruptcy. These experiences taught him invaluable lessons on resilience, humility, and the significance of learning from failure. Today, he is a highly sought-after motivational speaker and leadership coach, sharing his journey of adversity and triumph to inspire others to embrace continuous growth and pursue their definition of success with authenticity and perseverance. Resources: Get Authentic with Marques Ogden Podcast Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com | |||
| 23 Oct 2024 | 80: What’s Eroding Trust in Your Team? 10 Leadership Mistakes to Avoid | Damon Lembi | 00:10:09 | |
What Are the Biggest Mistakes Leaders Make—and Are You Making Them Too? Have you ever wondered why some leaders struggle while others thrive? What are the common mistakes that bad bosses make, and how can you avoid falling into the same traps? In this episode, we explore the pitfalls that many leaders face and offer practical advice on how to lead with integrity, empathy, and effectiveness. In this episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, host Damon Lembi, CEO of Learnit, reflects on his personal experiences with both great and terrible leaders. He outlines the 10 most common leadership mistakes that bad bosses make, offering actionable insights on how to correct these behaviors. Whether you're new to leadership or a seasoned professional, this episode will challenge you to reflect on your own leadership style and make improvements that will build trust and enhance your team’s performance. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction – Damon introduces the episode and shares why learning from both good and bad leaders is crucial for growth. (01:00) Mistake #1: Taking Credit for Team Wins – Damon explains why great leaders give credit to their teams and take responsibility when things go wrong. (02:00) Mistake #2: Creating a Yes Environment – Damon discusses how bad bosses stifle innovation by making their word the law, discouraging open dialogue. (03:00) Mistake #3: Getting Defensive – Damon reflects on how defensive leaders repel feedback and miss valuable opportunities for growth. (04:00) Mistake #4: Criticizing in Public – Damon emphasizes the importance of giving feedback privately and praising team members publicly to build trust. (05:00) Mistake #5: Overpromising and Underproducing – Damon shares why leaders must be careful with commitments and how failing to deliver destroys credibility. (06:00) Mistake #6: Gossiping – Damon warns leaders about the dangers of gossiping and how it erodes trust within teams. (07:00) Mistake #7: Being Inconsistent – Damon reflects on how consistently canceling meetings sends the message that your team isn’t important. (08:00) Mistake #8: Not Being Present – Damon discusses the importance of giving your undivided attention to team members during meetings and conversations. (09:00) Mistake #9: Failing to Delegate – Damon explains why not delegating stifles your team’s growth and limits your own ability to lead effectively. (10:00) Mistake #10: Keeping Toxic High Performers – Damon shares why keeping high performers who lack integrity can damage company culture and demotivate other team members. About Damon: Damon Lembi is a 2x bestselling author, the host of The Learn-It-All Podcast, and CEO of Learnit – a live learning platform that has upskilled over 2 million people. Drawing from his prior baseball career, Damon brings an athlete’s perspective to leadership. Through his journey, he has gained invaluable insights into what helps organizations grow, how great leaders learn, and why learn-it-all companies outpace their competitors every time.
Resources Referenced: | |||
| 24 Jul 2024 | 37: What is Impostor Syndrome and How to Overcome It | Damon Lembi | 00:10:19 | |
In this episode of "The Learn-It-All Podcast," Damon Lembi, CEO of Learnit, discusses the pervasive issue of Impostor Syndrome. Damon shares his personal journey, starting with his dreams of becoming a professional baseball player and the challenges he faced with self-doubt and Impostor Syndrome. He explains how these experiences led him to develop a three-step framework to overcome these feelings. This framework, consisting of hard work, focus, and the ability to learn and let go, is designed to help anyone struggling with self-doubt to build confidence and achieve their goals. Episode Highlights: [00:00:00] Introduction to Impostor Syndrome – Damon introduces the topic and shares common scenarios where impostor syndrome manifests. [00:01:00] Damon’s Personal Story – Damon recounts his journey from high school baseball to dealing with impostor syndrome at Pepperdine University. [00:04:00] The Three-Step Framework – Introduction to Damon’s three-step framework: Work Hard, Focus, Learn and Let Go. [00:06:00] Applying the Framework in Business – Examples of how the framework can be applied in professional settings to overcome self-doubt. [00:09:00] Overcoming Challenges and Seeking Feedback – The importance of seeking feedback and being open to criticism as part of personal and professional growth. About the Host: Damon Lembi is a 2x bestselling author, the host of The Learn-It-All Podcast, and CEO of Learnit – a live learning platform that has upskilled over 2 million people. Drawing from his prior baseball career, Damon brings an athlete’s perspective to leadership. Through his journey, he has gained invaluable insights into what helps organizations grow, how great leaders learn, and why learn-it-all companies outpace their competitors every time. Connect with Damon LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/damonlembi Learnit: www.learnit.com Damon’s Website: www.thelearnitallleader.com Resources Referenced Fast Company - A step-by-step guide for how to beat impostor syndrome once and for all Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. | |||
| 04 Jul 2024 | 31: Top Strategies and Insights for Aspiring Product Managers | Nataraj Sindham | 00:47:02 | |
This enlightening episode of "The Learn-It-All Podcast," takes a deep dive into the world of generative AI with Nataraj Sindham, a senior product manager at Microsoft. Damon, Courtney, and Nataraj explore the rapid adoption of generative AI among knowledge workers and discuss Nataraj’s diverse career journey from Epic Systems to Microsoft. Nataraj shares insights from his book, "100 Days of AI," detailing the potential and impact of large language models on various industries. The conversation also touches on the future of AI in product management, the importance of embracing a learn-it-all culture, and practical advice for aspiring product managers and investors in the AI sector. Episode Highlights: - Background: Nataraj Sindham and the hosts discuss the widespread use of generative AI among knowledge workers. - Nataraj's Journey: Nataraj shares his career path from growing up in South India to working at Epic Systems and his current role at Microsoft. - 100 Days of AI: Nataraj talks about his book "100 Days of AI," the inspiration behind it, and the insights he gained about large language models. - Impact of AI on Knowledge Work: Discussion on how AI is reshaping knowledge work and product management, including the abstraction level at which humans work. - Advice for Aspiring Product Managers: Nataraj offers practical advice for individuals looking to transition into product management, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and understanding one’s strengths. - Microsoft’s Learn-It-All Culture: Insight into how Microsoft has embraced a learn-it-all culture under CEO Satya Nadella, fostering continuous learning and empathy among employees. About Our Guest: Nataraj Sindham is a senior product manager at Microsoft, where he works on Azure Files, a product designed for managing unstructured data. With a rich background in software development and product management, Nataraj has contributed significantly to various projects, including Microsoft 365 and Azure Stack. He is also the host of a startup podcast, an angel investor, and the author of "100 Days of AI," an educational series exploring the cutting-edge applications of AI. Nataraj is passionate about the transformative potential of AI and its impact across different industries. Connect with Our Guest: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natarajsindham/ Website: https://thestartupproject.io/ Resources Referenced: - DeepLearning.AI: https://www.deeplearning.ai/ - 100 Days of AI by Nataraj Sindham: https://thestartupproject.io/ - Venture Deals by Brad Feld: https://www.amazon.com/Venture-Deals-Smarter-Lawyer-Capitalist/dp/1119594820 - Angel: How to Invest in Technology Startups by Jason Calacanis: | |||
| 02 Jan 2025 | 111: The Secret to Unlocking Leadership Potential in Your Kids | Dr. Alan Nelson | 00:50:37 | |
Are you waiting too long to develop leaders in your organization? In this episode, Dr. Alan Nelson, leadership expert and founder of KidLead, explores why early leadership development is crucial and how the principles apply to organizational leadership. Drawing from his extensive research and experience, Nelson explains how neural plasticity peaks between ages 10-15, making early intervention critical for developing effective leaders but research shows the average age for first formal leadership training is 42 - decades past the optimal window for leadership development. Alan shares insights on identifying leadership potential, fostering self-discipline, and creating environments that nurture leadership skills. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Dr. Alan Nelson – Damon introduces Dr. Nelson, highlighting his pioneering work in early leadership training. (01:30) Why Leadership Training Starts Too Late – Dr. Nelson shares insights into why formal leadership education typically begins at age 42 and how starting earlier can make a difference. (05:30) The Four Traits of Emerging Leaders – Dr. Nelson outlines the traits of persuasiveness, propulsion, planning, and power and their role in identifying young leaders. (09:00) Why 10-13 is the Sweet Spot – Dr. Nelson explains why this age range is optimal for leadership development and how it prepares kids for long-term success. (12:33) Turning Bullies into Leaders – Dr. Nelson discusses how teaching leadership to "frustrated leaders" can prevent bullying and build positive influence. (17:00) Leadership Lessons Through Projects – Dr. Nelson shares examples of project-based leadership exercises parents can implement at home. (21:30) Building Self-Discipline in Children – Dr. Nelson provides practical tips for helping kids delay gratification and take responsibility for their actions. (33:18) The Role of Parents in Leadership Training – Dr. Nelson emphasizes why parents are uniquely positioned to foster leadership skills in their children. (45:00) Final Thoughts on Leadership – Damon and Dr. Nelson wrap up with a call to action for parents and educators to prioritize early leadership training.
About Alan: Dr. Alan Nelson is a pioneering expert in early leadership development who teaches at the Naval Postgraduate School, where his students include NASA engineers, Top Gun pilots, and Navy SEALs. With over 40 books and 200 articles to his credit, he transformed his focus from adult leadership development to groundbreaking research on youth leadership after recognizing that waiting until adulthood yields poor ROI. As founder of KidLead Academy and LeadYoung Training Systems, he's developed the world's first comprehensive approach to early leadership development, backed by extensive research involving thousands of young people worldwide. His work has influenced leadership training internationally, challenging traditional assumptions about when leadership development should... | |||
| 23 Aug 2024 | 51: The 5 Days of Workplace Wellness I Day #3 - Three Steps to a Healthier Mindset | Bindi Delaney | 00:17:45 | |
Special Edition: National Wellness Month What if the secret to better health and improved workplace performance is all in your mind? This week, we're diving into the power of mindset, the third of five topics in our Workplace Wellness series on the Learn-It-All Podcast. In honor of National Wellness Month, join me, Damon Lembi, as I sit down with wellness expert Bindi Delaney to explore how your mindset can be a game-changer for lasting health and professional success. Bindi shares three key steps to reshape your thinking and revolutionize your approach to wellness, both at work and in your personal life. Bleding personal stories with science-backed insights, including a notable study from Harvard, we’ll show you how small mindset shifts can drive significant improvements. Tune in now to discover how to leverage the power of your mind for better health and increased productivity. Don’t miss this chance to transform your approach to wellness in the workplace. Episode Highlights:
About our Guest: Bindi Delaney, hailing from Australia, is an accomplished health and fitness expert with over 15 years of experience. Having completed an Ironman triathlon, Bindi boasts a diverse background as a personal trainer, health coach, and educator. She currently spearheads the Small Steps Wellness Program at LearnIt, where she conducts workshops and individual coaching sessions aimed at helping people adopt healthier habits through small, sustainable steps. Connect with Bindi: Resources Referenced:
Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com | |||
| 18 Jun 2024 | 26: ATD24 Recap: AI Leads the Way Alongside Other Key Highlights | 00:51:18 | |
In this special episode of the Learn-It-All Podcast, Darren Bridget hosts a panel discussion with our team to discuss their experiences and insights from the recent ATD24 conference in New Orleans. The ATD conference is the world's largest event for Talent Development professionals. The conversation covers the event's highlights, including keynote speeches from Matthew McConaughey and Daniel Pink, the dominant conversations around AI, and the importance of community and human connection in learning and development. Matt and Mickey also share their personal takeaways and actionable advice for leveraging AI in professional settings. Episode Highlights: - 00:05:00 Keynote Highlights – Mickey shares her thoughts on the keynote speeches by Matthew McConaughey and Daniel Pink. - 00:10:00 AI in L&D – Matt and Mickey discuss the prevalence of AI at the conference and how it is being integrated into learning and development. - 00:20:00 Personal Connections – Mickey emphasizes the importance of personal connections and humanizing the learning experience. - 00:30:00 Practical Applications – Both guests talk about practical applications of AI and the future of L&D. - 00:40:00 Networking and Community – The significance of networking and building a community within the L&D space. About Our Guests: Dr. Mickey Fitch Collins is a Senior Facilitator at Learnit and a presenter at the recent ATD conference in New Orleans. With a background in higher education and psychology, Mickey brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for human connection to her work in learning and development. At the conference, she facilitated a workshop on influencing without authority, which received rave reviews from attendees. Connect with Mickey on LinkedIn
Matt Murawski is the Vice President at Learnit, where he leads initiatives to support companies in upskilling their workforce and enhancing performance. He brings nearly 25 years of experience in the Learning and Development world. Connect with Matt on LinkedIn. Resources Referenced - Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey - Learnit Workshops and Classes Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. | |||
| 28 Feb 2024 | 8: Navigating Life's Pivots with Al Spector | 00:37:53 | |
Join us in an enlightening conversation with Al Spector, a multifaceted individual with a rich history in corporate law, logistics management, and a profound commitment to social impact through sailing for the blind. Al shares his journey of continuous learning, pivotal career changes, and the power of staying curious. Discover how embracing change and pursuing passions can lead to a fulfilling life.
In This Episode: 1. Al Spector's Diverse Career Journey - From corporate law to empowering the visually impaired through sailing, Al's career is a testament to the power of lifelong learning and adaptability. 2. The Intersection of Passion and Purpose - Al discusses how his passions have guided his career pivots and led him to meaningful work in the nonprofit sector. 3. Embracing Technology and Change - Learn how Al stays ahead by embracing technology and encouraging others in the nonprofit space to do the same.
Guest Information:
Resources: Al Spector's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanjspector/
Want to Learn More?: - Subscribe for more inspiring stories from dynamic individuals like Al Spector. - Share this episode to inspire others to embrace change and continuous learning. - Visit www.learnit.com for additional resources on personal and professional development.
Contact Information: - Website: www.learnit.com - Email: podcast@learnit.com - Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. | |||
| 07 Nov 2024 | 88: Great Leadership Starts With This Skill | Craig Dowden | 01:10:52 | |
Are your leadership strategies empowering your team—or holding them back? In a world of uncertainty and constant change, today’s leaders face the pressure of meeting business goals while fostering a positive, purpose-driven culture. In this episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, we unpack the essential skills and self-mastery techniques every leader needs to inspire their teams, navigate challenges, and truly lead from within. Learnit CEO Damon Lembi and Dr. Craig Dowden, executive coach, keynote speaker, and author of A Time to Lead: Mastering Yourself So You Can Master the World discuss why mindset and emotional mastery are vital for navigating today’s workplace. Dr. Dowden, known for his evidence-based approach to positive leadership, shares actionable insights on how self-leadership forms the foundation for successful leadership in any organization, explores feedback as an underrated tool for growth and resilience, and defines authentic leadership in practical, real-world terms. Perfect for leaders seeking to lead with purpose and integrity, this episode challenges traditional leadership paradigms and empowers you to lead with impact. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Craig Dowden – Damon introduces Dr. Craig Dowden, author of Do Good to Lead Well, and they dive into his approach to positive leadership. (02:00) What is Positive Leadership? – Craig explains the concept of positive leadership and how it creates a more engaged and motivated workplace. (05:30) Balancing Empathy and Accountability – Craig shares why leaders don’t have to choose between empathy and results; both can coexist. (09:00) Building a Trusting Team Culture – Craig discusses how leaders can align their teams around shared goals and foster a culture of trust. (12:33) Feedback as a Learning Tool – Craig emphasizes the importance of feedback in leadership and how receiving it well is as crucial as giving it. (17:00) Navigating Difficult Conversations – Craig provides insights into handling challenging conversations with authenticity and integrity. (21:30) Emotional Intelligence and Self-Mastery – Craig explains how self-awareness and emotional control are foundational to effective leadership. (33:18) Final Thoughts on Positive Leadership – Damon and Craig wrap up with actionable advice for leaders looking to inspire and engage their teams. About Craig: Craig Dowden, Ph.D., is a Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author who combines his doctorate in Psychology and Business with executive coaching to bridge the gap between leadership science and practice. As a Forbes Coaches Council member and contributor to leading... | |||
| 09 Jan 2025 | 114: From Soviet Refugee to Completing Ironmans (How He Beat the Odds) | Steven Pivnik | 00:53:18 | |
Are you struggling to scale and exit your business while maintaining work-life balance? In this episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, you’ll hear how an immigrant entrepreneur built and sold a multi-million dollar company over 27 years while completing 17 Ironman races and preparing to climb Mount Everest.
Steven Pivnik, founder of Binary Tree and current business advisor, shares his journey from Soviet immigrant to successful tech entrepreneur. The conversation explores how his early experiences shaped his resilience, the parallels between endurance sports and entrepreneurship, and practical advice for business owners looking to scale and exit their companies. This Episode Covers:
Chapters: (00:00) Introduction to Steven Pivnik – Damon introduces Steven, highlighting his inspiring story of immigration, entrepreneurship, and athletic achievements. (01:30) Growing Up as an Immigrant – Steven shares his family’s journey from the Soviet Union to Brooklyn and the resilience he learned from their sacrifices. (05:00) Turning Setbacks into Motivation – Steven reflects on how early challenges, including financial struggles and bullying, fueled his drive to succeed. (09:00) Building Binary Tree – Steven discusses his entrepreneurial journey, including lessons learned from failed startups and the pivotal moments that led to his company’s success. (12:33) The Importance of KPIs – Steven explains how tracking performance metrics transformed his business operations and accountability. (17:00) From Ironman to Everest – Steven shares lessons from endurance sports, including how mental toughness and planning apply to leadership and entrepreneurship. (21:30) Preparing for a Business Exit – Steven provides actionable advice on scaling businesses and maximizing valuation before an exit. (33:18) Visualization and Goal-Setting – Steven emphasizes the power of visualization and intentional action in achieving both personal and professional goals. (45:00) Final Thoughts – Damon and Steven wrap up with advice for entrepreneurs on embracing resilience and the importance of lifelong learning.
About Steven: Steven Pivnik is a Ukrainian-born entrepreneur who built and sold Binary Tree, a software company that grew to over 200 employees across 12 countries, serving 90% of Global 5000 customers, including JPMorgan Chase, Airbus, and Microsoft. After selling to Quest Software (a $4 billion competitor), he now advises founders of companies with $10-50 million in revenue on scaling and exit strategies. An extreme endurance athlete, Pivnik has completed 17 Ironman triathlons, including the World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, and multiple ultra-marathons. He authored the Amazon bestseller Built to Finish and is currently training to climb Mount Everest in May... | |||
| 31 Jul 2024 | 40: Becoming a Learn-It-All Leader: Why It Matters with Damon Lembi | 00:33:20 | |
In today’s rather unique episode, Darren interviews his co-host in celebration of the one-year anniversary of Damon’s best-selling book, The-Learn-It-All Leader. Throughout their conversation, Damon shares valuable insights into his journey, including the challenges of overcoming imposter syndrome, the significance of feedback in the creative process, and the vital role of adaptability in both personal and professional growth. The discussion goes on to highlight such key themes as continuous learning, trust, and delegation in leadership, while also exploring how Damon's background in sports and business has shaped his leadership philosophy. Episode Highlights: [0:00:00] Introduction of the episode and Damon as the ‘guest’ [0:01:00] Overcoming imposter syndrome and the importance of confronting self-doubt for growth. [0:01:45] Storytelling as a crucial skill in leadership, helping leaders inspire and connect with their teams. [0:02:30] The value of feedback in leadership, focusing on creating a safe space for constructive feedback. [0:03:15] Trust as essential for delegating tasks, scaling operations, and building a strong organizational culture. [0:06:00] Writing The Learn-It-All Leader, including challenges related to imposter syndrome. [0:08:30] The process of seeking feedback during the book's creation involving colleagues like Nick Silverthorne to refine the content. [0:09:40] The widespread issue of imposter syndrome and positive reader feedback. [0:11:30] The book's success leading to numerous podcast and speaking engagements, highlighting the benefits of stepping out of one's comfort zone. [0:17:30] The "trust tax" concept and its role in delegation and organizational growth. [0:18:30] Damon shares his public speaking experiences as a significant learning opportunity. [0:21:00] The necessity of adaptability and continuous learning, especially regarding emerging technologies like AI [0:24:00] Damon’s sense of responsibility towards his team and maintaining relevance as motivations for continuous learning and growth. [0:26:50] Storytelling as a vital leadership skill for conveying complex ideas. [0:30:00] Future projects, such as a workbook or follow-up book, focusing on practical leadership applications. [0:31:25] Damon’s personal interest in Broadway musicals, adding a personal touch to his public persona. About Our Guest: Damon Lembi has led Learnit, a global training company, for nearly three decades, upskilling over 1.8 million individuals. His unique approach to leadership, informed by his career in baseball, emphasizes continuous learning and adaptability. Damon is the author of the best-selling book "The Learn-It-All Leader," and is a sought-after keynote speaker on leadership, entrepreneurship, and lifelong learning. When not working, he enjoys time with his family, live music, movies, and walks with his dog, Pablo. Connect with Our Guest: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damonlembi/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LearnitTraining/podcasts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/damonlembi/ Resources Referenced: The Learn-it-All | |||
| 30 Oct 2024 | 84: How Great Leaders Bring Out the Best in People | Damon Lembi | 00:05:51 | |
Are your top performers doubting themselves? What if you could transform their uncertainty into unstoppable momentum with just one conversation? In this powerful episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, Learnit CEO Damon Lembi discusses how recognizing and acknowledging people's achievements can profoundly impact their confidence, performance, and career trajectory. Through personal stories from his early baseball career to his role as CEO, Damon shows how leaders who actively highlight their team members' successes create lasting positive change. Reflecting on the mentors who shaped his path, he shares practical strategies for building a culture where people believe in themselves and reach their full potential. Damon explains why leaders must recognize and nurture the greatness within their teams and provides actionable insights for leaders who want to make a lasting difference through encouragement, belief, and intentional support. This Episode Covers: - How recognizing achievements builds trust and confidence - Practical ways to help team members see their own potential - Why celebrating small successes can have long-term impact - The importance of believing in people before they believe in themselves - Strategies for sharing positive feedback and creating a supportive team culture
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction – Damon introduces the episode and shares his thoughts on the role of a leader in helping others see their potential. (01:00) The High School Baseball Story – Damon recounts a story from high school baseball, where a coach’s belief helped him regain his confidence during a challenging time. (03:00) Building Confidence in Your Team – Damon discusses how leaders can help team members reflect on their achievements to foster self-belief. (04:00) The Story of Laurel Taylor – Damon shares the story of a former employee who was inspired to start her own company after a simple conversation that helped her recognize her own potential. (05:00) Making Encouragement Part of Leadership – Damon explains why leaders shouldn’t wait for someone to struggle before offering words of encouragement and support. (06:00) Practical Tips for Leaders – Damon provides actionable tips on how to give meaningful feedback, recognize successes, and create a culture of encouragement. (07:00) Wrapping Up – Damon concludes with a reminder of the long-lasting impact that leaders can have by simply believing in their team members and helping them see their own greatness.
About Damon: Damon Lembi is a 2x bestselling author, the host of The Learn-It-All Podcast, and CEO of Learnit – a live learning platform that has upskilled over 2 million people. Drawing from his prior baseball career, Damon brings an athlete’s perspective to leadership. Through his journey, he has gained invaluable insights into what helps organizations grow, how great leaders learn, and why learn-it-all companies outpace their competitors every time.
Resources Referenced: - Damon Lembi’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damonlembi - Learnit: https://www.Learnit.com - Damon’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/damonlembi - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/learnittraining - The Learn-It-All Leader:... | |||
| 02 Oct 2024 | 69: (Replay) The Hidden Cost of Low Trust: How to Win Back Your Team and Customers I Expert Panel | 01:03:02 | |
What’s your leadership strategy for an era where skepticism is at an all-time high? Business leaders are navigating unprecedented challenges—employees are dispersed, virtual connections are fragile, and trust is harder to earn than ever before. The question isn’t just how to lead, but how to restore trust in a post-pandemic, hyper-skeptical world. In this insightful episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, Mickey Fitch-Collins, PhD, invites leadership experts Larry Levine, Meredith Bell, and Damon Lembi to share their insights on how leaders can build trust, both with their teams and their customers, despite the current climate of doubt. Levine, Co-CEO of Selling From the Heart, co-host of the Selling From the Heart Podcast, and the two-time bestselling author of Selling in a Post-Trust World and Selling from the Heart, along with Bell, CEO of Grow Strong Leaders, co-author of Connect with Your Team, and host of the Grow Strong Leaders Podcast, and Lembi, CEO of Learnit, host of The Learn-It-All Podcast, and the bestselling author of The Learn-It-All Leader, spoke candidly about the evolving challenges of trust-building in a post-trust world with their host, Mickey Fitch-Collins, PhD, a leadership and professional development expert and top-ranked Learnit facilitator. You’ll walk away with actionable strategies that go beyond theory—from engaging remote teams to fostering genuine connections in a virtual-first environment. These industry veterans break down the essentials of cultivating trust that lasts, so you can drive growth, improve retention, and lead with integrity in a complex landscape. Whether you’re a leader, individual contributor, or part of a sales team, this episode is packed with real-world insights to help you lead in a post-trust era. Are you ready to start rebuilding the foundation of every business relationship? This Episode... | |||
| 30 Jul 2024 | 39: 3 Ways To Build Trust With Your Team: Enhancing Team Cohesion and Reliability with Mark Silverman | 00:54:49 | |
Damon and Darren welcome Mark J. Silverman, author of The Rising Leader Handbook, to the podcast today to share his powerful insights on leadership, personal growth, and the often-overlooked importance of emotional intelligence in navigating the climb to success. Delving into Mark's unique perspective, shaped by his own extraordinary journey from homelessness to becoming a sought-after executive coach, this episode offers practical advice and a transformative framework for rising leaders looking to cultivate meaningful impact, foster genuine connections, and ultimately, find freedom through self-leadership. Episode Highlights: [0:00:00] Mark J. Silverman, author of The Rising Leader Handbook and sought-after executive coach, is introduced. [0:02:02] Mark shares his journey from homelessness to successful sales, highlighting the importance of people skills and dedication to service. [0:05:16] A rising leader is someone with expertise who advances quickly in an organization, needing to develop maturity and leadership skills. [0:06:19] Mark's book uses leadership for personal transformation, encouraging growth through relationships and interactions. [0:07:05] Discussing the emotional and mental challenges of rapid success, including personal experiences of feeling overwhelmed. [0:09:32] Mark presents his framework: leading up, leading across, leading your team, and leading yourself, based on his coaching work. [0:12:14] High performers should avoid a victim mentality, learn to adapt, and grow instead of blaming others for challenges. [0:14:33] Leading up means becoming a trusted advisor to senior leaders by understanding them, keeping your word, and showing dedication to the organization. [0:18:04] Improving enrollment (sales) skills involves listening, understanding the players, and building political capital through teamwork. [0:19:51] Understanding a leader's stress triggers and addressing their concerns can help them feel more relaxed. [0:21:12] True leadership involves helping leaders be their best rather than passively following them. [0:23:20] Creating trust within a team of competing leaders is crucial; being the person who gets along with everyone fosters cohesion. [0:26:41] Build trust by getting to know colleagues personally, showing interest in their lives, and supporting their priorities. [0:28:36] Recognizing and appreciating team members' efforts has a lasting positive impact, as shown by examples of leaders acknowledging their employees. [0:32:01] Transitioning from individual success to leading a team is challenging and requires focusing on enabling the team to excel rather than seeking personal recognition. [0:37:44] Personal growth and transformation come from interacting with others and dealing with real-world challenges. [0:40:12] When triggered, practice techniques to stay calm and grounded, and anticipate situations that may cause emotional reactions. [0:45:02] Using vulnerability to express feelings and concerns openly can defuse tense situations and foster deeper connections. [0:48:25] Mark shares finding comfort in homemade sourdough bread during a difficult time, highlighting the value of simple, meaningful gestures. [0:50:24] The importance of continually adapting and learning, especially in diet and health, to maintain well-being and personal growth is discussed. [0:52:21] Watching talent shows for inspiration shows people stepping out of their comfort zones and striving | |||
| 07 Jan 2025 | 113: | Top 1% Leaders Avoid These 2 Things | Lt. Col. Oakland McCulloch | 01:03:16 | |
Is Your Leadership Approach Making Your Organization Worse? Are your current top performers driving away your future leaders? Is your organization stuck in a vicious cycle of toxic leadership that's eroding company trust and culture? Oakland McCulloch, retired Army Lieutenant Colonel and leadership expert, shares hard-earned wisdom about breaking these destructive patterns and building organizations where both people and results perform well. In this compelling conversation with host Damon Lembi, Oakland draws on over 40 years of experience to examine why current leadership approaches are falling short and what needs to change. He makes a passionate case for servant leadership while acknowledging the critical importance of driving results. Through vivid stories from his military career and civilian consulting work, Oakland provides practical guidance on building trust, developing future leaders, and creating winning cultures - all while avoiding the pitfalls that trap many well-intentioned leaders. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Oak McCulloch – Damon introduces Oak, highlighting his career and passion for servant leadership. (01:30) The State of Leadership Today – Oak discusses why accountability and responsibility are often missing in modern leadership. (05:00) Servant Leadership in Action – Oak shares lessons learned from mentors who emphasized putting people first. (09:00) Balancing Accountability and Results – Oak explains how leaders can achieve success while fostering a people-focused culture. (12:33) Avoiding Micromanagement – Oak provides advice on delegating effectively and empowering teams to take ownership. (17:00) The Power of Trust – Oak emphasizes the importance of building trust within teams and shares his 360-degree trust framework. (21:30) Lessons from Military Leadership – Oak discusses how his experiences in the Army shaped his leadership philosophy. (33:18) Building a Legacy of Leadership – Oak offers advice on mentoring future leaders and fostering long-term impact. About Oakland: Oakland McCulloch draws on over 40 years of high-stakes leadership experience across military and civilian sectors to help organizations develop stronger leaders and build more effective teams. As a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel, he led teams in combat operations, peacekeeping missions, and disaster relief efforts before successfully transitioning to civilian leadership roles. Oak has helped commission over 600 Army officers and received 31 military service awards, including the Bronze Star. His 2021 book Your Leadership Legacy and international speaking engagements focus on practical, actionable principles drawn from his extensive experience building and transforming organizations in both military and civilian... | |||
| 15 Nov 2023 | 1: Build Better Learning Habits with Kristen Manieri & Damon Lembi | 00:58:02 | |
Life coach and author Kristen Manieri joins Learnit CEO Damon Lembi for a conversation on cultivating a growth mindset at every stage of life. Drawing on their own lifelong learning journeys, they'll offer practical tips for overcoming barriers, integrating daily learning habits, and staying adaptable in our rapidly changing world.
In this engaging conversation, you'll gain: - Insight into the transformative potential of lifelong learning - Actionable strategies to build successful learning routines - Inspiration to approach challenges with curiosity and resilience - An appreciation for the power of knowledge at any age
Whether you're early in your career or a seasoned professional, there are always new skills to gain and fresh perspectives to seek out.
Don't miss this opportunity to explore the Learn-It-All mindset with two passionate experts. You'll leave motivated to pursue new horizons of personal and professional growth. Hit “play” now to get going!
About Our Guest: Kristen Manieri is a writer, mindfulness teacher, life coach and host of the 60 Mindful Minutes podcast. She’s the author of Better Daily Mindfulness Habits and the creator of two daily mindfulness journals and a workbook focused on cultivating a daily centering practice. Learn more at www.KristenManieri.com | |||
| 14 Jan 2025 | 116: What Leaders Need To Know About AI in 2025 | Geoff Woods | 00:51:09 | |
Transforming Your Leadership with AI: Beyond Writing Better Emails Are you struggling to leverage AI meaningfully in your organization while your competitors surge ahead? What if you could use AI to make million-dollar strategic decisions instead of just writing better emails? In this compelling episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast , Geoff Woods, author of The AI-Driven Leader, shares how leaders can transform their relationship with AI from a simple assistant to a powerful strategic thought partner. Drawing from his experience leading AI initiatives at a global steel company and interviewing 200 executives, Woods reveals practical frameworks for using AI to enhance strategic thinking, make better decisions, and drive organizational growth. He demonstrates through real case studies how leaders can use AI to solve complex business challenges - from restructuring international debt to cutting millions in operating costs in minutes rather than months. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Geoff Woods – Damon introduces Geoff, highlighting his leadership expertise and focus on AI-driven strategy. (01:30) Shifting the Mindset About AI – Geoff discusses how leaders can redefine their relationship with AI as a thought partner. (05:00) Lessons from Technological Disruption – Geoff shares parallels between historical disruptions and the AI revolution. (09:00) Building Strategic AI Prompts – Geoff introduces his “context, role, interview, task” framework to get meaningful results from AI. (12:33) The Role of Leaders in Driving AI Adoption – Geoff emphasizes why leaders must champion AI adoption to future-proof their organizations. (17:00) Creating an AI Board of Advisors – Geoff explains how to customize AI tools to complement leadership styles and business needs. (21:30) Real-World Applications of AI – Geoff provides examples of how AI is being used to solve complex business challenges. (33:18) Preparing for the Future – Damon and Geoff discuss how organizations can integrate AI into their strategies to remain competitive. About Geoff: Geoff Woods is a pioneering force in AI-driven business leadership and organizational transformation. As the former Chief Growth Officer of Jindal Steel & Power, a 100,000-person global organization, he drove market cap growth from $750M to $12B in just four years by implementing strategic AI initiatives. Earlier in his career, Woods partnered with bestselling author Gary Keller to build and scale The ONE Thing's business operations, where he advised companies ranging from $10M to $60B in revenue. After witnessing AI's transformative | |||
| 03 Oct 2024 | 70: Stephen M. R. Covey | The Leadership Expert: 3 Steps To Inspire & Build Trust With Your Team | 01:01:33 | |
Is your leadership style holding back your team’s full potential? In this inspiring episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, Stephen M.R. Covey reveals why 90% of leaders are still leading like it's the 20th century, relying on command and control while paradoxically expecting innovation and agility from their teams. Covey shares why most leaders are trapped in outdated models and how to make the crucial shift to “Trust and Inspire” leadership to unlock your team's full potential and revolutionize the way your organization operates. If you're ready to lead with greater impact, this conversation is a must-listen! Learnit’s Damon Lembi and Darren Bridgett sit down with renowned global thought leader and #1 bestselling author of The Speed of Trust (New York Times) and Trust & Inspire (Wall Street Journal) Stephen M.R. Covey to discuss the future of leadership on The Learn-It-All Podcast. Covey explains why the traditional “command and control” approach is no longer effective in today’s fast-paced, innovation-driven world. Covey shares compelling stories and actionable insights on how to create a culture of trust that fosters inspiration, agility, and growth in organizations. Covey reveals the mindset shifts leaders must make to succeed in the modern workplace and how to start implementing Trust and Inspire leadership today. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) – Introduction: Welcome and overview of Stephen M.R. Covey’s leadership philosophy. (03:50) – The Problem with Command and Control: Why most leaders are stuck in old paradigms. (06:05) – Can Trust and Inspire Work Everywhere?: How trust-based leadership is transforming even hierarchical organizations like the military. (08:36) – The Green and Clean Story: A personal example of trust, responsibility, and leadership. (15:08) – Parenting with Trust: Lessons from Stephen’s childhood and how they shaped his leadership approach. (18:35) – Why Leaders Need to Shift Now: Post-pandemic realities and the future of leadership. (31:23) – How to Build a Smart Trust Agreement: Practical ways to empower teams with trust while maintaining accountability. (40:41) – How to Transition from Command and Control: Strategies for leaders to make the shift authentically. (45:47) – Attracting and Retaining Talent with Trust: The importance of trust-based leadership for younger generations. (53:20) – A New Paradigm for Leadership: Stephen outlines the five beliefs that underpin Trust and Inspire. (59:53) – Final Thoughts and Invitation: Reflecting on the leaders who have trusted and inspired you—and how you can become that leader for others. About Stephen Stephen M.R. Covey is a renowned leadership expert, bestselling author,... | |||
| 01 Feb 2024 | 6: Tame Your Inner Critic and Unlock Your Potential: An Interview with Julia Toronczak | 00:50:21 | |
Learnit’s Carly Lutz sits down with life coach and yoga teacher Julia Toronczak for a transformative conversation on breaking free from self-doubt and cultivating self-belief.
You'll get insights into understanding and managing that negative inner voice we all have. Plus, practical tools to build confidence through mindfulness and self-compassion.
If you feel held back from achieving your dreams, let Julia inspire you to new heights. Don't miss this empowering talk - hit “play” now to start your journey to self-acceptance!
About Julia: As a complex PTSD survivor with a nasty inner critic, Julia struggled finding the right support during my healing journey while simultaneously working in a highly stressful sales role. She’s now dedicated to helping others become liberated from the grip of their inner criticism and awaken their full potential. | |||
| 15 Aug 2024 | 46: Staying Ahead: Thriving with Essential Skills in a Rapidly Changing World with Steve Gilman | 00:48:24 | |
Steve Gilman, former professional baseball player and Intelligence Officer, and current CEO of OneRange, joins Damon and Darren on the podcast to share his journey into the learning and development sector. Emphasizing the importance of continuous upskilling in today's rapidly evolving job market, Steve draws insightful parallels between his athletic career and the corporate world. He also shares how his company, OneRange - the intelligent upskilling marketplace that connects companies and their employees to world-class learning providers - addresses the common gap between training availability and employee access, offering a streamlined solution that leverages data analytics and AI. Today’s discussion highlights how adaptable, high-quality training programs enhance productivity and retention, especially in the fast-paced modern workforce, and underscores the crucial need for businesses to invest in employee development to maintain a competitive edge. Episode Highlights: [0:00:00] Introduction of Steve Gilman. [0:01:45] Steve’s career transitions and founding OneRange. [0:04:27] Insights on leadership and continuous learning. [0:07:15] OneRange. [0:08:38] The gap between training availability and employee access. [0:12:50] Aligning training with immediate work needs. [0:15:21] The role of continuous learning in business productivity and talent retention. [0:18:24] Case study of a OneRange client’s upskilling program, improving engagement and growth. [0:21:03] Aligning training investment with business needs using data-driven approaches. [0:24:56] The gap between executive perception and employee experience in training programs. [0:27:52] Suggestions for training companies to provide high-quality, relevant content. [0:30:39] In-demand skills like AI and managerial soft skills reflecting workforce evolution. [0:33:01] Impact of AI on learning and skill development. [0:35:56] Core KPIs for assessing learning programs. [0:37:55] Steve’s personal learning pursuits and staying updated with industry trends. [0:40:00] Managing continuous learning alongside personal responsibilities. [0:43:25] Practical negotiation strategies for win-win outcomes. About Our Guest: Steve Gilman, Co-founder & CEO of OneRange, began his career in professional sports and the US military. After graduating from Yale, he was drafted by the Detroit Tigers where he experienced the power of elite upskilling programs, and post-baseball, joined the Defense Intelligence Agency, advancing quickly while conducting counterproliferation missions. After earning an MBA from Columbia, Steve discovered that corporate skill development lagged behind his previous experiences and now aims to bring top methodologies from sports and military to businesses. He also lectures at Yale and Columbia and advises early-stage tech companies. Connect With Our Guest: Website: https://www.onerange.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevegilman26/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onerange/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yougetrange | |||
| 18 Oct 2024 | 78: The Two Skills This Global COO Used To Build a Remarkable Career | Ani Filipova | 01:05:38 | |
Have you ever wondered what it takes to leave behind the safety of a corporate career to create a life centered on family and personal fulfillment? In this episode of The Learn-It-All Leader Podcast, Ani Filipova, former COO of Citibank in Asia, discusse her journey from leading 10,000 people to starting her own company how she navigated this pivotal transformation with host Damon Lembi. She shares her inspiring story of growing up in socialist Bulgaria, her remarkable rise to the C-suite, and the life-changing decision to step away from corporate life. Damon and Ani explore how she managed large teams, embraced change, and prepared for her bold career shift to focus on family and personal fulfillment. Ani offers practical advice for leaders on navigating transitions, the importance of empathy in leadership, and how to manage through cultural differences in global roles. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Ani Filipova – Damon introduces Ani Filipova, former COO of Citibank and founder of Change Advisory, and they discuss her remarkable career journey. (02:00) Growing Up in Bulgaria – Ani shares her experience growing up in a socialist country and her early aspirations to see the world. (05:30) The Rise to COO – Ani reflects on her path to becoming COO of Citibank in Asia and the intentional decisions she made to climb the corporate ladder. (09:00) Embracing Change – Ani discusses her love for change and how she intentionally sought out new roles and responsibilities in her career. (12:33) Overcoming Challenges as a Leader – Ani shares how she navigated the cultural and professional challenges of leading teams in different countries and industries. (17:00) Leaving Corporate Life – Ani explains the pivotal moment that led her to leave her role at Citibank to spend more time with her family and start her own company. (21:30) Building Change Advisory – Ani talks about the transition to entrepreneurship and how her new venture, Change Advisory, helps executives manage change and career transitions (33:18) Ani’s Advice for Executives – Ani shares practical tips for executives looking to reinvent themselves and align their careers with their personal values. About Ani: Ani Filipova is an entrepreneur, career coach, and former COO of Citibank in Asia. With a 20-year career in global banking, Ani led teams across multiple countries and navigated the complexities of the financial services industry. In 2021, she founded Change Advisory, a corporate training and executive coaching company. Ani is also the host of the “Change is Possible” podcast and speaks regularly on topics like leadership, career development, and the future of work.
Resources Referenced: Podcast: Change is Possible | |||
| 21 May 2024 | 20: Goodness Pays: Fostering Teamwork and Accountability in Leadership with Paul Batz | 00:41:09 | |
Join the Learn-It-All Podcast as Paul Batz, co-founder of Good Leadership, discusses the power of leadership in fostering collaboration and accountability. Paul shares his journey from public relations to pioneering leadership coaching, highlighting the "Goodness Pays" philosophy developed over 15 years. This episode delves into leadership as a collective trait essential for team success, emphasizing integrity and transparency in mission-driven businesses. Paul addresses the challenges and opportunities of hybrid work and advocates for healthy accountability, explaining how it drives organizational success. The conversation also explores practical strategies for embedding accountability, screening for it during hiring, and the significant impact leaders have in nurturing such a culture, drawing insights from the Good Leadership Breakfast Series and the innovative 'nagging rights' concept. Episode Highlights: (00:20) The Power of Good Leadership - Executive coaching, organizational development, and culture's impact on collaboration and accountability, exemplified by the Ritz-Carlton's service excellence. (09:34) Leadership Development and Accountability in Organizations - Leadership as a collective, mission-driven businesses, healthy accountability, challenges of hybrid work, potential shift in work settings. (23:22) The Role of Accountability in Organizations - Accountability, trust, and middle managers in project management methodologies for knowledge work. Ongoing research project for organizations. (30:41) Leadership Breakfast Series and Accountability - Managers foster accountability through 'nagging rights', clear communication, and screening in hiring processes, shaping a culture of accountability. About Our Guest: Paul Batz, co-founder of Good Leadership, is an informed optimist dedicated to the belief that "we" is greater than "me." He champions the idea that "good leadership is a team sport," helping organizations move away from the counterproductive "super-hero" leadership model. By fostering goodness and embracing healthy tension, Paul's approach enables teams to achieve better results more efficiently. His firm, Good Leadership, is at the forefront of research on teamwork and organizational effectiveness, recently launching groundbreaking studies on healthy accountability in collaborative, team-based cultures. Paul is the creator and host of the Good Leadership Breakfast, a premier leadership development series in Minneapolis/St. Paul, featuring over 100 episodes with insights from more than 95 executive speakers. As a prolific author and founder of Good Leadership Press, he has published six books, including the widely acclaimed "Good Leadership Is a Team Sport," now in its second printing. Paul's work focuses on providing leaders with the tools and insights needed to achieve great results both personally and professionally. Resources: Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram... | |||
| 31 Dec 2024 | 110: The One Mistake That Could Kill Your Business Growth | Philippe Bouissou | 01:05:57 | |
Why do some businesses grow consistently while others stagnate or fail? In this fascinating episode, former Apple executive and venture capitalist Philippe Bouissou shares his groundbreaking framework for sustainable business growth. Drawing from his experience working with Steve Jobs, investing in over 2,300 companies, and running his own successful ventures, Bouissou explains how misalignment between a business and its target market is often the root cause of stagnation. He introduces his four universal axes of alignment a scientific approach to identifying and fixing growth obstacles that applies to any business, from egg farms to tech startups. His insights challenge conventional wisdom about growth and offer practical steps leaders can take to accelerate their business expansion. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Philippe Bouissou – Damon introduces Philippe and his groundbreaking book, Aligning the Dots. (01:10) Why Some Companies Thrive – Philippe explains how alignment with the target market drives growth and prevents stagnation. (05:30) Lessons from BlackBerry and Apple – Philippe shares examples of alignment and misalignment in the tech industry. (09:00) The Four Axes of Alignment – Philippe introduces his framework and explains how companies can align pain with claims to meet customer needs. (12:33) Pricing as a Strategic Tool – Philippe emphasizes why pricing is integral to business strategy and growth. (17:00) Building a Culture of Delight – Philippe discusses the importance of delivering delight to meet or exceed customer expectations. (21:30) Practical Steps for Leaders – Philippe provides actionable advice for measuring and addressing alignment gaps. (33:18) Final Thoughts on Growth – Damon and Philippe wrap up with a summary of the alignment framework and its impact on business success. About Philippe: A renowned Silicon Valley veteran of three decades, Philippe Bouissou, Ph.D. combines his experience as a successful entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and former executive at Apple, where he launched and grew the Apple Store to $350 million in revenue. As Managing Partner at Blue Dots Partners LLC, he leverages his scientific background in physics and chaos theory to help companies with over $10 million in revenue accelerate their growth through his innovative alignment framework. Andre is a TEDx speaker and author of Aligning the Dots, which draws on his extensive experience evaluating over 2,300 companies as a VC and leading more than 120 management consulting projects for industry giants like Microsoft, Cisco, and SAP.
Resources Referenced: Aligning the Dots: The New Paradigm to Grow Any Business by Philippe Bouissou | |||
| 10 Aug 2024 | 44: The 5 Days of Workplace Wellness I Day #1 - 3 Simple Strategies to Boost Your Daily Movement | 00:14:32 | |
Special Edition: National Wellness Month In honor of National Wellness Month 2024, the Learn-It-All Podcast presents a compelling 5-part series on Workplace Wellness for business leaders committed to enhancing their team's health and productivity. For the next 5 weeks, join Learnit CEO Damon Lembi and renowned wellness expert Bindi Delaney as they share immediately useful and actionable strategies to boost overall wellbeing. This essential series covers: the whys and hows of physical activity, the importance of sleep, the mindset that matters, healthy nutrition, and health accountability coaching. Equip yourself and your team with effective tools for achieving optimal health and peak performance. Don’t miss this chance to transform your workplace wellness! In this episode of "The Learn-It-All Podcast," host Damon Lembi explores the vital topic of physical activity with wellness expert Bindi Delaney. They discuss the hidden dangers of a sedentary lifestyle (sitting is the new smoking!), reveal surprising statistics about gym memberships, and share three practical strategies to start easily integrating more movement into your day. Tune in to learn how to elevate your health and productivity through the power of physical activity and start feeling great! Episode Highlights:
About Our Guest: Bindi Delaney, hailing from Australia, is an accomplished health and fitness expert with over 15 years of experience. Having completed an Ironman triathlon, Bindi boasts a diverse background as a personal trainer, health coach, and educator. She currently spearheads the Small Steps Wellness Program at LearnIt, where she conducts workshops and individual coaching sessions aimed at helping people adopt healthier habits through small, sustainable steps. Connect with Bindi: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bindi-delaney-499087297 Learnit: https://www.learnit.com Resources Referenced:
Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. | |||
| 25 Oct 2024 | 82: What’s Missing in Your Digital Strategy? The Real Risk of Not Having a CTO Advisor | Ben Johnson | 00:49:12 | |
Wondering how your business can stay competitive without getting bogged down in tech complexity? In this episode of The Learn It All Leader Podcast, serial entrepreneur Ben Johnson explains how business leaders can embrace technology to accelerate growth—without losing sight of the human element that drives success. Ben shares his remarkable entrepreneurial journey to becoming the founder and CEO of Particle 41 with Learnit CEO Damon Lembi and offers practical advice for leaders navigating the challenges of digital transformation. They discuss the importance of building strong tech teams, clarity in leadership, and developing a mindset that balances rapid growth with sustainable, long-term success. Ben gives actionable strategies for fostering innovation, creating partnerships, and implementing technology solutions that serve both your customers and your company’s vision and offers expert advice on navigating the challenges of scaling your business, fostering innovation, and achieving your most ambitious goals. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Ben Johnson – Damon introduces Ben Johnson, founder of Particle 41, and sets the stage for a conversation about entrepreneurship in the tech industry. (01:00) Ben’s Entrepreneurial Beginnings – Ben shares his early experiences, including starting his first business at 13 and how entrepreneurship has always represented freedom for him. (03:00) Finding the Right Co-Founders – Ben discusses what he looks for in business partners and why mindset, work ethic, and industry knowledge are key. (05:43) Legal Tech and LegalZoom Acquisition – Ben reflects on building a legal tech company and the strategic decision to sell it to LegalZoom, providing insights into the acquisition process. (09:00) Overcoming Challenges – Ben shares the challenges he’s faced in his entrepreneurial journey, including how to bring teams together around a mission and manage customer expectations. (12:00) The “Victim vs. Creator” Mindset – Ben explains how reframing negative situations through a “creator” mindset can help entrepreneurs and leaders navigate difficult times. (16:30) Building Particle 41 – Ben introduces his current venture, Particle 41, a full-service software development consultancy, and the role of CTO advisory in helping companies stay competitive. (20:00) The Future of Software Development – Ben shares his thoughts on the future of the tech industry and how companies can accelerate digital transformation. About Ben: Ben Johnson is the founder and CEO of Particle41, a global software consultancy that helps businesses modernize applications and leverage data science solutions. A seasoned entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience driving digital innovation and transformation for both startups and large enterprises, his expertise spans founding... | |||
| 11 Jul 2024 | 33: Unique Strategy to 10x Your Sales Effortlessly | David Chesnosky | 00:47:55 | |
In this episode of "The Learn-It-All Podcast," host Damon Lembi welcomes David Chesnosky, San Francisco’s top residential leasing broker with over 20 years of experience. They dive into what it takes to become the best in any field, focusing on David's journey from working in various industries to becoming the leading figure in San Francisco's real estate market. They discuss the importance of passion, hard work, and finding a niche, as well as the current state and future of San Francisco's housing market. Episode Highlights David's Background – David shares his story, from his upbringing in Burlingame to his early career in telecom sales and his pivot to real estate. Breaking into Real Estate – David talks about his first job in real estate, managing a corporate housing building, and how he found his passion for leasing. Finding Your Niche – David explains the importance of focusing on a niche and how he became an expert in residential leasing in San Francisco. Mentorship and Growth – The discussion highlights the role of mentors in David's career and his approach to continuous learning and development. State of San Francisco – David gives an overview of the current housing market in San Francisco, touching on the impact of AI companies and the city's future prospects. About Our Guest: David Chesnosky is a seasoned residential leasing broker with over 20 years of experience in the San Francisco Bay Area. Starting his career in telecom sales, David transitioned to real estate in 2003 and has since become a well-known figure in the industry, winning several awards including the San Francisco Apartment Association's Leasing Agent of the Year. He has worked with some of the largest residential landlords in the city and now runs his own successful brokerage. David is passionate about San Francisco, real estate, and helping people find their perfect homes. Connect with David: Website: http://www.rentingsf.co LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidchesnosky Resources Referenced: - Peter Thomas One Minute Mentor: https://www.instagram.com/peterthomasmentor Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. | |||
| 24 Oct 2024 | 81: Why Visual Thinking Inspires Clear and Powerful Leadership | Todd Cherches | 01:00:55 | |
Ever struggle to get your team to truly see the future you're aiming for? Todd Cherches, an expert in leadership and visual thinking, has a groundbreaking approach that could change the way you lead. In this episode of The Learn-It-All Leader Podcast, Todd Cherches, CEO and co-founder of Big Blue Gumball, shares his innovative insights on visual leadership—a method that leverages visual thinking to enhance communication, leadership, and teamwork. From using metaphors and imagery to simplifying complex concepts, Todd’s techniques are designed to help leaders clearly articulate their vision, inspire teams, and drive meaningful action. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Todd Cherches – Damon and Darren introduce Todd Cherches, leadership expert and author, and dive into his innovative approach to leadership through visual thinking. (02:00) The Power of Visual Thinking – Todd explains why leaders need to think visually and how it helps communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively. (05:30) Using Metaphors and Models – Todd shares how he uses visual metaphors and models to help leaders simplify their messages and get their teams on the same page. (09:00) Leadership as a Visual Skill – Todd discusses how leaders can leverage visual thinking in their day-to-day roles to engage, inspire, and align their teams around a shared vision. (12:33) Storytelling in Leadership – Todd emphasizes the importance of storytelling in leadership, using examples from his book Visual Leadership and his TEDx talk. (17:00) Tools for Leaders – Todd walks through practical tools and techniques leaders can use to enhance their visual communication skills, including the use of props, diagrams, and visual storytelling. (21:30) Lessons in Ego-Free Leadership – Todd shares stories of how ego can get in the way of effective leadership and how leaders can practice “ego-free leadership” to build trust and collaboration. (33:18) Final Thoughts on Visual Leadership – Todd wraps up with actionable tips on how leaders can immediately start using visual thinking to improve their communication and leadership effectiveness.
About Todd: Todd Cherches, CEO and co-founder of Big Blue Gumball, is an executive coach, consultant, and award-winning professor specializing in leadership development through visual thinking. With over 25 years of experience, including roles at Disney and CBS, Todd’s innovative methods help business professionals become more effective thinkers, communicators, and leaders. A TEDx speaker and author of Visual Leadership, Todd’s unique, engaging approach to leadership has earned him recognition as a pioneer in the field and a finalist for the Thinkers50 Distinguished Achievement Award in Leadership.
Resources Referenced: Book: | |||
| 24 Jan 2024 | 2: This Olympic Coach’s Secret to Success | Steve Milor | 00:57:40 | |
Episode Overview: Join us on a deep dive into high-performance leadership with Steve Mellor, an accomplished executive coach and former Olympic swim coach. In this episode, we explore the crucial intersection of leadership, personal growth, and professional excellence. Hosted by Darren Bridgett, this engaging discussion unveils the secrets behind thriving in business and life, drawing on Steve's unique perspective and experience.
In This Episode: 1. The Power of Intentional Action: Steve Mellor discusses the importance of aligning intention with action to achieve high-performance results. 2. Building Your Community: Insights into creating a supportive and impactful community that fuels personal and professional growth. 3. Overcoming Adversity: Steve shares his experiences and strategies for turning challenges into opportunities for growth and success.
Guest Information: - Name: Steve Mellor - Background: Former Olympic swim coach, executive coach, and author. - Notable Achievements: Renowned for his innovative approaches to coaching and leadership. - Why They’re Here: To share his expertise on high-performance leadership and the journey of continuous learning.
Resources: - Steve Mellor's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/ - Career Competitor Website: [Link to website]
Want to Learn More? - Subscribe for more episodes on leadership and lifelong learning. - Share this episode to inspire others on their journey to high performance. - Visit www.learnit.com for additional resources on leadership and personal growth.
Contact Information: - Website: www.learnit.com - Email: podcast@learnit.com - Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram | |||
| 23 Sep 2024 | The Learn-It-All Podcast Trailer | 00:00:41 | |
Welcome to The Learn-It-All Podcast, the show for today's leaders who are ready to get and stay ahead of the game. Because great leaders aren't born or made, they're always in the making. Your host Damon Lembi is a 2x best-selling author and CEO of Learnit—a live learning platform that's upskilled over 2 million people. In conversations with industry experts and solo episodes, Damon offers fresh insights, new practices, and actionable strategies for leaders looking forward to thriving in tomorrow’s rapidly evolving business landscape. Subscribe to The Learn-It-All Podcast on your favorite platform to never miss an episode. | |||
| 05 Dec 2024 | 99: The Hidden Cost of Homeownership (Costing You Thousands) | Colton Pace | 00:41:02 | |
How do you scale from 3 to 100+ employees while preserving the collaborative spirit that made you successful in the first place? In this engaging episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, Colton Pace shares his journey from managing billionaires' assets to founding OwnWell, a rapidly growing startup that helps homeowners reduce their property expenses. He discusses how his experience in wealth management revealed opportunities to democratize financial tools previously available only to the ultra-wealthy. Pace offers valuable insights on building strong co-founder relationships, creating an office-first culture that promotes cross-functional learning, and maintaining effective communication as an organization scales. This Episode Covers:
Chapters: (00:00) Introduction to Colton Pace – Damon introduces Colton, CEO of OwnWell, and sets up the conversation about managing real estate costs effectively. (02:00) Managing Assets to Democratizing Access – Colton shares his journey from managing billionaire assets to founding OwnWell to help everyday homeowners. (05:30) Property Taxes: Not as Fixed as You Think – Colton explains how OwnWell helps homeowners challenge and lower their property tax bills. (09:00) Building the OwnWell Platform – Colton discusses the technology and team behind OwnWell and the importance of co-founders in scaling a business. (12:30) Leadership Lessons from Business School – Colton reflects on the value of his MBA experience and how it shaped his approach to culture and leadership. (17:00) Hiring for Culture and Curiosity – Colton shares tips for recruiting team members who align with company values and thrive in collaborative environments. (21:30) Advice for Aspiring Founders – Colton offers actionable steps for entrepreneurs to test their ideas, find customers, and scale their businesses efficiently. (33:18) The Future of OwnWell – Colton discusses his vision for OwnWell as a digital assistant for real estate owners, providing personalized recommendations and savings About Colton: Colton Pace is the co-founder and CEO of OwnWell, a venture-backed startup that helps property owners reduce expenses through automated solutions, drawing on his extensive experience managing billions across multiple asset classes. His career spans roles in wealth management, venture capital, and asset management, where he was involved with early investments in notable companies like Uber, Spotify, and Snowflake. After graduating from UCLA's Anderson School of Management, Pace founded OwnWell to democratize access to sophisticated financial tools previously available only to ultra-high-net-worth individuals. Under his leadership, OwnWell has grown to serve over 350,000 customers with more than 100 employees. Resources Referenced: | |||
| 03 Jan 2025 | 112: The Surprising Habit That Separates Great Leaders from 99% Of Other People | Jeff Brown | 00:52:55 | |
How to Turn Reading into a Competitive Edge When You "Don't Have Time" Are you struggling to stay ahead in a rapidly changing business landscape while feeling too busy to invest in your own development? This episode reveals how intentional reading can become your secret weapon for better decision-making, innovation, and leadership even if you think you don't have time. Jeff Brown, host of the Read to Lead podcast and author of Read to Lead: The Simple Habit That Expands Your Influence and Boosts Your Career, shares practical strategies for turning reading into a powerful tool for professional growth. He discusses how to extract maximum value from books, build sustainable reading habits, and create a learning culture within your organization. From managing information overload to implementing insights effectively, this conversation offers actionable approaches for leaders who want to leverage reading as a competitive advantage. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Jeff Brown – Damon introduces Jeff, highlighting his career and passion for reading as a tool for growth. (01:30) Why Reading is Essential for Leaders – Jeff explains the benefits of reading and how it enhances empathy, decision-making, and creativity. (05:30) Building a Reading Habit – Jeff shares practical steps for carving out time to read, even with a busy schedule. (09:00) Lessons from Biographies – Jeff reflects on how biographies of figures like Benjamin Franklin and Steve Jobs offer timeless leadership lessons. (12:33) Retaining Knowledge Through Note-Taking – Jeff introduces his method for marking and organizing key insights for later use. (17:00) Overcoming Barriers to Reading – Jeff addresses common challenges like time constraints and distractions and offers solutions. (21:30) Leading by Example – Jeff emphasizes the importance of leaders modeling a reading habit and sharing insights with their teams. (33:18) The Future of Reading and AI – Jeff discusses how AI tools are changing the way we interact with books and ideas. (45:00) Final Thoughts – Damon and Jeff wrap up with actionable advice on prioritizing reading and lifelong learning. About Jeff: Jeff Brown is a renowned leadership development expert and host of the Read to Lead Podcast, leveraging his 26-year broadcasting career to help business leaders amplify their impact. The author of Read to Lead: The Simple Habit That Expands Your Influence and Boosts Your Career," Jeff has shared keynote stages with influential voices like Michael Port and Pat Flynn, while delivering transformative workshops for organizations including LinkedIn, Disney, and the Virginia Council of CEOs. As a sought-after consultant and coach, he has guided numerous entrepreneurs and executives, including leaders from multi-million-dollar companies and major U.S. institutions, in... | |||
| 09 Jul 2024 | 32: Breaking Barriers in Talent Development with Dr. Mechelle Roberthson | 00:43:13 | |
Dr. Mechelle Roberthon, a dynamic talent development speaker and consultant joins The Learn-It-All Podcast to share her action-oriented approach to training and learning. This episode dives into Dr. Roberthon's impressive journey from corporate training to founding her own talent development firm. Dr. Roberthon shares her experiences in various industries, including healthcare, banking, and higher education, and discusses the universal need for leadership and professional development across sectors. Episode Highlights: - Dr. Roberthon's Background: From corporate training in Louisiana to VP roles in healthcare, banking, and higher education, Dr. Roberthon's career journey is a testament to the universal applicability of talent development. - Value of Certifications: Insight into the importance of certifications over degrees and how they contribute to practical application and staying relevant in the industry. - Dissertation Insights: Dr. Roberthon discusses her dissertation, "Getting to the Room Where It Happens," which explores the experiences of Black women in senior and executive leadership roles. - Humanizing Leadership: Practical advice for leaders on empathizing with their teams and creating a supportive work environment. - Overcoming Stereotypes: Dr. Roberthon emphasizes the importance of seeing individuals beyond stereotypes and fostering inclusive workplaces. - Personal Challenges: Dr. Roberthon opens up about her experiences with ageism, microaggressions, and the pressures of representing her community in leadership roles. About Our Guest: Dr. Mechelle Roberthon is a seasoned talent development professional with extensive experience across various industries. She is the CEO of her own talent development firm, a keynote speaker, and a consultant. Dr. Roberthon is passionate about leadership, professional development, and creating inclusive work environments. She holds multiple certifications and is a strong advocate for continuous learning and growth. Connect with Our Guest: Website: https://www.drmechellerob.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mechelleroberthon/ TikTok: @drmechellerob Resources Referenced: - ATD's Consultant Handbook: https://www.td.org/book/atds-handbook-for-consultants Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. | |||
| 24 Sep 2024 | 66: Top 10% Secrets: The Behind-the-Scenes Formula for Winning in Sales & Life | Kristi K. Jones | 00:55:01 | |
What if the real differentiator between the top 10% and the rest isn’t talent or intelligence, but something you can cultivate? Business leaders constantly seek the secret to driving consistent high performance, but what if the real differentiator between the top 10% and the rest isn’t just talent, but something you can cultivate? In this episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, Kristie Jones, author of Selling Your Way IN, challenges traditional ideas about sales excellence and reveals key insights from her journey in the sales world. Learn how top performers stand out—not just because of natural ability, but through developing habits, strategies, and an acute awareness of their strengths. This episode is packed with actionable insights that leaders can use to empower their sales teams, whether you're looking to groom new talent or refine the skills of seasoned professionals. Discover the key traits that allow the best salespeople to thrive, and how you can foster an environment where discipline and intention lead to sustained success. Don’t miss this opportunity to transform potential into performance witin your organization. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Kristie Jones – Damon welcomes Kristie Jones, author and sales leadership expert, setting the stage for a conversation about sales success and career intentionality. (02:00) The “Kitchen Table MBA” – Kristie shares how her early exposure to business discussions at the kitchen table with her parents shaped her understanding of business and sales. (05:30) Breaking into Sales – Kristie recounts her first experiences in sales, starting with waiting tables and how that role helped her understand key sales skills like reading people and making quick decisions. (09:00) Building an SDR Team and Career Shifts – Kristie discusses her experience leading SDR teams at BizLibrary and how she eventually started her own consulting business. (12:33) The Importance of Career Intentionality – Kristie emphasizes the importance of being intentional about career choices, understanding one’s strengths, and choosing roles that align with those strengths. (17:00) The Top 10% Performers – Kristie explains the habits and behaviors of the top 10% of salespeople, focusing on discipline, continuous improvement, and surrounding oneself with the right people. (21:30) The Mental Side of Sales – Kristie highlights the mental aspects of success in sales, including the importance of mindset, self-care, and personal discipline. (33:18) Advice for Aspiring Salespeople – Kristie provides advice for people considering a career in sales, offering insights from her book *Selling Your Way In*. About Kristie: Kristie Jones is a sales leadership expert, speaker, and author of Selling Your Way In*, a professional development book for sales professionals. With over 20 years of experience, Kristie helps sales teams and leaders improve their performance through intentional career choices, discipline, and leveraging their unique strengths. Resources Referenced: Kristie Jones’ LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristiekjones/ Kristie Jones’ | |||
| 20 Sep 2024 | 65: Unlocking the Power of Liquid Leadership: Bridging Generational Gaps | Brad Szollose | 01:06:12 | |
Are generational differences creating tension in your orginization? With Baby Boomers, Gen Z, and everyone in between working side by side, understanding how to motivate and manage these vastly different generations is essential for business success. In a world where technology and expectations are rapidly evolving, how can leaders keep up? In this episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, hosts Damon Lembi and Darren Bridgett are joined by Brad Szollose, bestselling author of Liquid Leadership and host of Awakened Nation. Together, they dive into the critical strategies needed to bridge generational gaps, build trust, and foster communication in the modern workplace. Brad shares practical tips for business leaders looking to adapt and thrive in today’s multigenerational environment. This Episode Covers:
Chapters: (00:00) Introduction to Brad Szollose – Damon and Darren introduce Brad Szollose, bestselling author and leadership expert, and set up the conversation on navigating generational differences in the workplace. (02:00) How Leadership Has Evolved – Brad discusses how leadership styles have changed with the rise of digital natives and why traditional command-and-control models no longer work. (05:46) The Impact of Generational Habits on Leadership – Brad talks about how each generation’s upbringing has shaped their work habits, motivations, and expectations from leaders. (09:00) Bridging the Generational Divide – Brad shares how leaders can bridge the gap between baby boomers and younger generations by fostering better communication and understanding. (12:33) Leadership in a Digital World – Brad explains how today’s digital natives expect a different approach to leadership, one that involves trust, empathy, and collaboration. (17:42) Building Trust Across Generations – Brad emphasizes the importance of creating a safe space where employees can share ideas and speak the truth without fear of repercussions. (21:30) Leading in a Hybrid World – Brad reflects on the challenges of leading in hybrid work environments and how leaders can adapt to the rapidly changing workplace. (33:18) Leadership Lessons for the Future – Brad offers his final thoughts on how leaders can stay ahead by embracing new leadership styles that cater to a multigenerational workforce. About Brad: Brad Szollose is a globally recognized business adviser, former C-Level executive, and Generation Y expert who helps companies like Dell and MasterCard navigate the impact of technology on corporate culture, particularly how it affects the management of Millennials. With over 35 years of experience, including co-founding K2 Design and taking it public on NASDAQ, Brad offers practical insights through keynotes and workshops. He is also the award-winning author of Liquid Leadership, focusing on multigenerational management and leadership in the digital age, and is the host of the Awakened Nation... | |||
| 22 Feb 2024 | 7: Travis Reed's Journey from Basketball to Business | 00:35:38 | |
In this episode, we dive into the multifaceted life of Travis Reed, a former professional basketball player who transitioned into a successful sales leader and podcast entrepreneur. From the courts of Europe to the boardrooms of sales, Travis shares his incredible journey of perseverance, adaptation, and personal growth. Join us as we explore the lessons Travis learned through his diverse experiences and how they have shaped his approach to life and business. In This Episode:
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| 13 Mar 2024 | 10: Why Resilience and Adaptability Are the Keys to Leadership | Corey Jackson | 00:39:06 | |
NFL Fields to Entrepreneurship: Corey Jackson's Journey Episode Overview: In this episode, hosts Darren Bridgett and Damon Lembi chat with Corey Jackson about his incredible life story, from his humble beginnings to his time in the NFL and his successful pivot to entrepreneurship. Corey's resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to growth and learning illuminate the path from adversity to triumph. In This Episode: 1. Corey's early life challenges and unexpected journey into college athletics. 2. Transitioning from an NFL career to a visionary entrepreneur. 3. Embracing change and the importance of continuous learning in personal and professional life. Guest Information: - Name: Corey Jackson - Background: Former NFL athlete turned entrepreneur. - Notable Achievements: Transition from professional sports to founding a company that supports athletes and businesses. Resources: Corey Jackson LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreyjacksonspeaks/ Quwerkz: http://www.qwerkz.com/ Contact Information: - Website: www.learnit.com - Email: podcast@learnit.com - Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. | |||
| 10 Jan 2025 | 115: Why Leaders Who Care Are Always One Step Ahead | Chris Gargano | 01:06:29 | |
From Sports Media to Leadership: How Caring Transforms Business Results Are your team members giving their all, or just doing the minimum? The difference often comes down to one crucial factor: whether they feel genuinely cared for by their leader. In this episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, former sports media executive Chris Gargano shares powerful insights from his 33-year career working with elite athletes and sports organizations, revealing how authentic care and connection drive superior performance. Drawing from his extensive experience with the Oakland Raiders, San Francisco Giants, and New York Jets, as well as his current work teaching leadership at NYU and running leadership development programs, Gargano explores how continuous learning, curiosity, and genuine care for people create environments where teams excel. He breaks down specific techniques for better listening, more effective meetings, and building trust - while explaining why command-and-control leadership fails in today's workplace. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Chris Gargano – Damon introduces Chris, highlighting his career in sports and leadership development. (01:30) Lessons from Elite Athletes – Chris discusses how continuous learning sets legends like Kobe Bryant and Joe Montana apart. (05:00) Leadership and Curiosity – Chris shares how his journalism background taught him to ask better questions and connect with people. (09:00) Are Leaders Born or Made? – Chris explores the balance between innate traits and learned leadership skills. (12:33) The Importance of Self-Awareness – Chris explains why leaders must reflect on their impact and adapt their approach. (17:00) Connecting with Teams – Chris provides practical tips for leaders on building trust and fostering an inclusive environment. (21:30) Storytelling in Leadership – Chris discusses how to use stories to inspire and align teams with a shared vision. (33:18) Navigating Generational Differences – Chris offers advice on engaging and communicating with diverse age groups in the workplace. (45:00) Final Thoughts on Leadership – Damon and Chris wrap up with insights on how caring for your team leads to better business outcomes. About Chris: Chris Gargano brings over three decades of experience working alongside elite athletes and championship teams to his leadership development practice. As a senior executive, he led content departments for the Oakland Raiders, San Francisco Giants, and New York Jets, where his teams earned 14 Emmy awards. During his tenure with the Giants' front office, the team won three World Series championships, giving him firsthand exposure to high-performance leadership in action. While serving as an executive, Gargano earned his master's degree in leadership studies from St. Mary's College of California and began teaching leadership at... | |||
| 21 Nov 2024 | 94: The Leadership Hack That 99% Are Missing | Andre Thornton | 00:52:08 | |
How Do You Build Trust When You're Not the Expert? What if the key to becoming a better leader isn't mastering your domain expertise but learning to lean on your team's knowledge instead? In this enlightening conversation, Andre Thornton, CEO of Whitman Consulting, shares how being thrown into leading a billion-dollar aircraft sales operation with no prior experience taught him invaluable lessons about authentic leadership and building trust. Andre joins co-hosts Damon Lembi and Darren Bridgett to discuss how his journey from mechanical engineer to leadership development consultant shaped his understanding of human behavior and organizational dynamics. Drawing from his engineering background, he brings a systematic approach to solving "people problems" while acknowledging the inherently irrational nature of human behavior. Thornton shares powerful insights about measuring success across multiple life dimensions, creating psychological safety, and leading through adversity. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Andre Thornton Damon introduces Andre, highlighting his unique path from engineering to leadership development. (02:00) The Four Pillars of Success Andre shares the framework he uses to measure success across career, finances, relationships, and health. (05:30) Transitioning from Products to People Andre discusses his move from engineering to leadership and why understanding people is the ultimate challenge. (09:00) Emotional Intelligence and Neuroscience Andre explains the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership and how neuroscience provides tools for growth. (12:33) Leading Through Adversity Andre shares personal stories of overcoming challenges and how adversity has fueled his success. (17:00) Building Trust and Culture Andre talks about the role of trust in teams and why creating psychological safety is critical for cohesion and productivity. (21:30) The Importance of Vulnerability Andre emphasizes the power of vulnerability in leadership and how it fosters authenticity and connection. (33:18) Final Thoughts on Self-Discovery Andre offers advice on the never-ending journey of self-discovery and the importance of grace along the way. About Andre: Andre W. Thornton, CEO of Whitman Consulting, leverages his unique combination of mechanical engineering expertise and an MBA in finance to deliver evidence-based leadership development to major corporations including Microsoft, IBM, and Lockheed Martin. Drawing from his experience co-leading initiatives that captured over $1B in new business and heading up organizations of up to 2,000 employees, Andre has established Whitman Consulting as a premier partner in leadership development, specializing in brain-based behavior change techniques.
Resources Referenced: Andre Thornton on... | |||
| 24 Jan 2024 | 4: Ignite your courage and leadership potential: A Conversation with serial entrepreneur Jason Hauer. | 00:56:00 | |
In this insightful episode of 'The Learn-It-All' Podcast, we dive into the theme of cultivating a courageous mindset in leadership. Our special guest, Jason Hauer, co-founder of The Garage Group and a visionary entrepreneur, joins to share his profound experiences and strategies for embracing courage in both personal and professional realms. This episode is full of practical advice, motivational stories, and deep reflections on the role of courage in driving innovation and growth.
In This Episode: 1. Jason’s Journey: From uncertainty to entrepreneurial success, Jason Hauer tells his transition from a young professional to a confident leader. 2. The Essence of Courageous Leadership: Discover how courage plays a pivotal role in entrepreneurship and leadership, and how to foster it in your team and organization. 3. Practical Strategies: Jason provides actionable insights into managing risks, leveraging opportunities, and maintaining resilience in the face of challenges.
Guest Information: - Name: Jason Hauer - Background: Co-founder of The Garage Group, entrepreneur, and investor. - Notable Achievements: Instrumental in developing 'Courageous Minds Only,' a global movement empowering leaders. - Why They’re Here: To share his unique perspective on the importance of courage in leadership and entrepreneurship.
Resources: - Jason Hauer’s LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonhauer/ - The Garage Group Website: https://www.thegaragegroup.com/
Want to Learn More? Subscribe for more inspiring episodes from The Learn-It-All Podcast. Share this episode to inspire others, and visit www.learnit.com for additional resources on leadership and personal growth.
Contact Information: - Website: www.learnit.com - Email: podcast@learnit.com - Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram | |||
| 05 Sep 2024 | 58: How to Succeed When Failure Isn’t an Option | Iky Chan | 00:43:51 | |
What does it take to truly master the art of rapid learning? In today's fast-paced world, the ability to learn quickly and adapt to new challenges is more important than ever. In this episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, hosts Damon Lembi and Darren Bridgett are joined by Iky Chan, an expert in engineering, technology, and personal development. Iky shares her incredible journey from Hong Kong to the United States, where she faced the daunting task of adapting to a new culture and language. Through her story, Iky reveals how she honed her learning process, developed resilience, and turned challenges into opportunities. From her early experiences in a new country to her success in diverse fields, Iky offers actionable insights on how to learn faster, overcome failure, and lead with confidence. This Episode Covers:
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About Iky: Iky Chan is a multi-talented professional with three degrees in engineering, specializing in rapid learning and personal development. She has a diverse background that spans engineering, technology, visual design, stand-up comedy, and cartooning. Iky has empowered thousands of entrepreneurs and highly skilled corporate professionals globally, helping them master new skills quickly and effectively. She is passionate about using her expertise to elevate others, whether through her corporate training programs, coaching, or creative endeavors. Connect with Iky: Podcast Contact Information Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates.
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| 27 Mar 2024 | 12: Crafting Leadership and Inclusivity Through Diverse Experiences with Brian Lanier | 00:42:19 | |
Crafting Leadership and Inclusivity Through Diverse Experiences In this enlightening episode of "The Learn-It-All Podcast," Brian Lanier, a DEIB professional, Facilitator at Learnit, and Founder/CEO of Leaders Circle speaks on the complexities of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging within organizations. Drawing on his vast experience from roles at Starbucks and KFC Canada, Brian highlights the crucial role of leadership in embedding DEIB into the cultural fabric of a company, emphasizing that real change requires more than just surface-level initiatives. He shares his journey of continuous learning and personal growth, underscoring the importance of storytelling, listening, and authentic engagement to foster a truly inclusive environment. Through discussions on overcoming challenges, embracing a growth mindset, and the impact of AI on the future of DEIB, Brian provides invaluable insights for anyone looking to make a tangible difference in their organization. This episode offers practical advice for implementing effective DEIB strategies and inspires listeners to embark on their own journey of lifelong learning and personal development. Episode Highlights:
About Our Guest: Brian Lanier is a distinguished DEIB professional and the Founder and CEO of the Leaders Circle, a consultancy dedicated to crafting bespoke DEIB solutions for organizations striving for cultural transformation. With a rich background that spans key roles at Starbucks and KFC Canada, Lanier brings a wealth of experience in leadership and operational excellence to the forefront of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging initiatives. Known for his ontological approach to training and development, he focuses on empowering individuals to be the change, rather than merely acquiring information. Lanier's dedication to lifelong learning, coupled with his expertise in navigating the nuances of corporate culture, makes him a sought-after facilitator and advisor. His work extends beyond the corporate realm, influencing community and personal development practices, and showcases his commitment to creating environments where everyone feels genuinely included and valued. Resources: Podcast Contact Information:
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| 15 Nov 2024 | 92: Success Starts where the Comfort Zone Ends | Alicia Jessop | 00:55:25 | |
How can you push your organization—and yourself—past the status quo? In this insightful episode of The Learn-It-All Leader Podcast, attorney, journalist, and tenured professor Alicia Jessop shares powerful insights from her career that highlight the importance of stepping out of comfort zones, refining your leadership skills, and driving true growth. Learnit CEO Damon Lembi sits down with Alicia Jessop to discuss the evolution of her career, from attorney to sports journalist and professor, and the lessons she's learned about leadership, risk-taking, and storytelling along the way. Alicia left behind a comfortable law career to pursue a passion in sports media and offers listeners a fresh perspective on success. Business leaders will learn how embracing discomfort and focusing on disciplined growth can unlock their full potential, while storytelling and active listening are critical tools for connection and impact. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Alicia Jessop – Damon introduces Alicia Jessop, attorney, sports journalist, and founder of Ruling Sports, setting the stage for a conversation on pursuing purpose. (01:20) Embracing Risk for True Growth – Alicia shares her decision to leave a comfortable corporate job to follow her passion for sports media. (05:58) Defining Success on Your Own Terms – Alicia explains why true success means growing as a person, challenging comfort, and making intentional choices. (08:45) The Power of Discipline and Role Models – Alicia reflects on lessons from elite athletes and why discipline is key to success. (10:55) Building Trust Through Listening – Alicia shares tips for building trust as a leader and interviewer by truly listening and creating safe spaces for others to open up. (14:45) Memorable Interviews and Earning Trust – Alicia recalls her challenging interview with Mike Tyson and how she gained his trust to uncover deeper insights. (20:30) Storytelling as a Tool for Connection – Alicia explains the importance of storytelling in connecting with people and shares how leaders can improve their storytelling skills. (24:00) Supporting Athletes Beyond the Game – Alicia discusses her work at Ruling Sports, helping athletes transition from their sports careers to entrepreneurial endeavors. (32:00) The Evolution of Women’s Sports – Alicia offers her perspective on the growth of women’s sports and the need for continued investment and equity. (48:00) Finding Your Life’s Purpose – Alicia encourages listeners to reflect on their legacy and take small steps toward fulfilling their true calling.
About Alicia: Alicia Jessop is a tenured professor, sports law attorney, and media entrepreneur focused on leadership, athlete well-being, and career transitions. As the founder of Ruling Sports, she empowers athletes and business leaders through storytelling, legal expertise, and tailored career strategies. She has been a prominent voice in sports media, covering major events... | |||
| 06 Mar 2024 | 9: Her $300,000 Mistake That Built An Empire | Michelle Nedelec | 00:39:57 | |
In this enlightening episode, we sit down with the multifaceted Michelle Nedelec, an expert in the worlds of business strategy, digital marketing, and entrepreneurial leadership. Michelle shares her unique perspective on viewing business as a form of self-actualization and a playground for creativity rather than stress. With her rich background in starting businesses and coaching leaders, she offers invaluable insights into the entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, the joy of learning, and the art of finding opportunities in chaos. In This Episode: 1. The Entrepreneurial Mindset: Michelle dives into how approaching business with the mindset of self-actualization can transform challenges into enjoyable learning experiences. 2. Embracing Chaos: Discover Michelle's approach to navigating the unpredictable waters of entrepreneurship and how she sees chaos as a breeding ground for opportunity. 3. The Journey of Learning: Michelle reflects on her personal and professional growth, advocating for continuous learning and adaptation as key drivers of success in any entrepreneurial venture. Guest Information: - Name: Michelle Nedelec - Background: Michelle is a creative director, international speaker, podcaster, author, and executive coach known for her expertise in business strategy, marketing, and automation systems. - Notable Achievements: Michelle's entrepreneurial journey began at 23, leading her to establish multiple companies and become a sought-after coach and speaker. - Why They’re Here: Michelle shares her philosophy on entrepreneurship, the power of a learning mindset, and strategies for thriving amidst uncertainty. Resources: Michelle Nedelec’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellenedelec/ Want to Learn More?: - Subscribe for more inspiring stories from dynamic individuals like Michelle Nedelec? - Share this episode to inspire others to embrace change and continuous learning. - Visit www.learnit.com for additional resources on personal and professional development. Contact Information: - Website: www.learnit.com - Email: podcast@learnit.com - Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. | |||
| 07 Jun 2024 | 23: Conquer Your Limits: Unstoppable Perseverance | Nate Bailey | 00:39:31 | |
What if building trust and leading effectively could be boiled down to a few practical, actionable strategies? On the latest episode of the Learn it All podcast, we welcome Nate Bailey, an Army veteran and CEO/Leadership Coach at Championship Leadership. This conversation dives into Nate's journey, emphasizing the importance of communication, mindset, and continuous learning. They discuss practical strategies for self-leadership and maintaining integrity, along with the significance of team dynamics and building trust within a team. The episode highlights the challenges and rewards of leadership, both in personal and professional contexts. Episode Highlights: [00:01:08] Nate Bailey's Background – Nate shares his journey from being an Army platoon leader to an entrepreneur and coach, detailing his experiences and the lessons learned along the way. [00:04:00] Transition to Coaching – Nate discusses his transition from running a successful insurance brokerage to becoming a full-time leadership coach and the motivations behind it. [00:07:55] Understanding Coaching – The hosts and Nate explore what coaching entails, focusing on leadership, communication, and mindset, and how these elements contribute to overall success. [00:13:00] Importance of Self-Leadership– Nate emphasizes the need for self-leadership before leading others and shares his concept of the "Integrity Bank." [00:27:00] Team Dynamics and Personal Insights – Insights into building effective team dynamics, fostering trust, handling conflicts, and a surprising personal anecdote about Nate's appearance in a Prince music video. About Our Guest Nate Bailey is a U.S. Army veteran who served as a first lieutenant and platoon leader in Kuwait. With over 20 years of entrepreneurial experience, he transitioned into full-time leadership coaching in 2018 after selling his successful insurance brokerage. Nate is the creator of the "Unleash the Leader Within" program, a transformative four-day experience designed to enhance leadership, communication, and mindset. He focuses on helping entrepreneurs and business owners lead themselves and their teams effectively, drawing from his extensive military and coaching background. Resources Referenced Integrity Bank Concept by Nate Bailey Unleash the Leader Within Program ames Clear's Insights on Habits and Identity Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. | |||
| 13 Aug 2024 | 45: Why Trust is Crucial for Sales Success Today: Timely Insights from Larry Levine | 01:07:14 | |
In a world where trust is increasingly hard to come by, how can business leaders ensure their sales teams not only survive but thrive? On the day of the release of his latest book, *Selling in a Post-Trust World*, international best-selling author and co-host of the award-winning *Selling from the Heart* podcast, Larry Levine, joins Damon for a must-listen episode. Drawing from over three decades of sales experience, Larry shares insights that every business leader needs to hear. He delves into the importance of building genuine, trust-based relationships in today's sales environment—where authenticity, empathy, and integrity are no longer optional but essential. This episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you and your team overcome common sales challenges, differentiate through unique, engaging questions, and deepen relationships with existing clients to avoid relational vulnerability. If you're looking to enhance your sales team's effectiveness, boost revenue, and foster client loyalty, this conversation is for you.
Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the most respected voices in the sales world. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just starting out, this episode will provide you with the tools to navigate and succeed in the post-trust era.
Episode Highlights: [0:00:00] Introduction and common sales challenges. [0:03:42] Identifying and overcoming the "empty suit" syndrome. [0:06:39] The role of mindset and self-improvement in sales success. [0:08:57] Why being real, relevant, and relatable matters more than just being liked. [0:13:24] Building authentic connections through meaningful personal conversations. [0:17:14] Quick tips for building rapport based on shared interests. [0:22:34] The power of fundamentals, curiosity, and embracing failure in sales. [0:34:10] How to stand out by asking unique, engaging questions. [0:41:42] Deepening client relationships to safeguard against relational vulnerability. [0:50:14] Breaking down the trust formula. [0:56:53] The importance of engaging all stakeholders, especially key decision-makers. [1:03:31] Seeking client feedback to enhance value delivery. About Our Guest Larry Levine, co-founder of Selling from the Heart, is dedicated to revolutionizing the sales profession by championing authenticity and trust. As the best-selling author of Selling from the Heart and co-host of its award-winning podcast, Larry draws from over 30 years of B2B sales expertise to help sales teams drive revenue growth, foster personal development, and genuinely impact clients' lives. His commitment to authentic relationships is also evident in his role as a founding member of the Talent Champions Council. Larry's latest book, Selling in a Post-Trust World tackles the pressing challenges of selling in today's skeptical marketplace, and offers new strategies that build trust and increase sales.
Connect with Larry Mobile Device: Text the word 'Trust' to 21000 Website: https://sellingfromtheheart.net/ | |||
| 04 Sep 2024 | 57: Dodging Leadership Landmines: 9 Decision Pitfalls to Avoid | Damon Lembi | 00:12:17 | |
A recent McKinsey study shows that leaders spend 40% of their time making decisions. With so much at stake, shouldn’t it be critical for leaders to master decision-making? In this solo episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, Damon Lembi, CEO of Learnit, uncovers 9 of the most common decision-making pitfalls that leaders face—and how to avoid them. Whether you're steering a small team or a large organization, these insights will help you lead with confidence and avoid costly mistakes. Dodging Leadership Landmines: 9 Decision Pitfalls to Avoid This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:18) Introduction to Decision-Making: Damon introduces the importance of decision-making, highlighting a McKinsey study about the significant time leaders spend making decisions. (00:54) - Rushing Decisions: Discusses the pitfalls of making hasty decisions without thorough consideration and how to avoid them. (01:54) - Decision Paralysis: Explores the dangers of overthinking and how to overcome the fear of making decisions with less than perfect information. (03:00) - Undefined Success: Highlights the importance of clearly defining success criteria before making decisions to avoid misaligned outcomes. (07:24) - Treating Symptoms, Not Causes: Damon shares a story illustrating the significance of addressing root causes rather than just symptoms in decision-making. (11:05) - Emotional Decisions: Discusses the impact of emotions on decision-making and strategies to prevent emotional bias. About Damon: Damon Lembi is the CEO of Learnit, a live learning platform that has upskilled over 2 million individuals in the past 30 years. With a deep passion for leadership and decision-making, Damon draws on his extensive experience to help leaders make smarter, more informed decisions. He is a frequent speaker on leadership topics and is known for his engaging storytelling that brings practical insights to life. Connect with Damon:
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| 11 Sep 2024 | 61: Curiosity and Beyond: The 5 Traits Today's Leaders Must Embody | Damon Lembi | 00:07:20 | |
Are your leadership skills equipped to handle the unpredictable and fast-paced changes in today’s business world? As the landscape of leadership evolves, the traits that define truly exceptional leaders are changing too. In this solo episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, Damon Lembi, CEO of Learnit, uncovers the five critical traits that today’s leaders must embody to navigate complex challenges and drive success. From embracing curiosity to having the courage to make bold decisions, Damon offers practical strategies that will empower you to lead with confidence and drive real, lasting success in your organization. Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction – Damon introduces the episode and discusses the critical importance of leaders who are humble, open-minded, and supportive. (01:06) Humility – Great leaders are humble and open to admitting mistakes. Damon emphasizes the value of humility in leadership. (01:46) Curiosity – Curiosity drives innovation and growth. Damon discusses why being a "learn it all" rather than a "know it all" is key to effective leadership. (02:27) Integrity – Integrity is foundational for trust. Damon shares stories from his experiences that highlight the importance of living up to your word. (03:30) Accountability – Accountability in leadership means owning both successes and failures. Damon explains why leaders must take responsibility for their team's performance. (04:51) Courage – Courage allows leaders to make bold decisions and embrace failure as a learning opportunity. Damon encourages leaders to be decisive and fearless. About Damon: Damon Lembi is the CEO of Learnit, a live learning platform that has upskilled over 2 million people in the past 30 years. With a deep passion for leadership development, Damon draws on his extensive experience to guide leaders in becoming more effective and impactful. He is a frequent speaker on leadership topics and is known for his engaging storytelling that brings practical insights to life. Resources Referenced:
Podcast Contact Information: Website: http://www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com | |||
| 16 Jan 2025 | 118: Pro Athlete Turned Tech CEO Reveals Path to Entrepreneurial Success| Lyle Adams | 00:55:04 | |
Are you struggling to build a team that takes true ownership of their work? How do you transition from being hands-on with every decision to empowering others to drive results? In this episode, former p rofessional soccer player turned tech entrepreneur Lyle Adams shares his journey from walking on at Wake Forest University to becoming one of Uber's first 100 employees and founding Spry, a fast-growing athletic compliance platform. Through his experiences as an athlete, early Uber employee, and founder, Lyle provides invaluable insights on building high-performing teams, maintaining authenticity during organizational challenges, and the power of curiosity in driving professional growth. His unique perspective bridges the worlds of elite athletics and business leadership, offering practical wisdom on delegation, talent development, and creating a culture of ownership. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Lyle Adams – Damon introduces Lyle and his remarkable journey from professional soccer to tech entrepreneurship. (02:46) Walking On at Wake Forest – Lyle shares his story of perseverance and earning a spot on one of the nation’s top soccer programs. (09:29) Winning a National Championship – Lyle reflects on the camaraderie and culture that drove his team to victory. (14:34) Life as a Professional Athlete – Lyle discusses the challenges of transitioning from college to the pros and lessons learned along the way. (22:44) From Soccer to Tech – Lyle talks about his transition to the corporate world and the pivotal moments that led him to Uber. (28:58) The Uber Experience – Lyle recounts his time as one of Uber’s first 100 employees and the lessons learned from scaling a global game-changer. (39:43) Founding Spry – Lyle explains the inspiration behind Spry, its mission, and how it empowers student-athletes in the NIL era. (46:17) Advice for Founders – Lyle offers practical tips on leadership, delegation, and staying focused as a startup founder. (54:26) Reflections on Fatherhood – Lyle shares his experiences as a new dad and the lessons he’s learning from this exciting chapter of life. (56:05) Where to Connect with Lyle – Lyle shares how listeners can reach out and learn more about Spry. About Lyle: Lyle Adams, Founder and CEO of Spry, a leading athletic compliance platform serving over 200 customers, brings a unique blend of elite athletics and tech industry expertise to his role. As one of Uber's first 100 employees, he spent six years in key leadership positions helping scale the company's operations and analytics capabilities. Before his successful transition to tech, Lyle was a professional soccer player in Major League Soccer, having earned his spot as a walk-on at Wake Forest University where he led the team to a national championship. His journey from professional athlete to tech executive and entrepreneur culminated in founding Spry, where he leverages his comprehensive experience to revolutionize NIL technology for athletic departments and... | |||
| 13 Dec 2024 | 103: The Leadership Trap: How a Lack of Mental Toughness Could Cost You Everything | Dre Baldwin | 00:51:57 | |
Are you struggling to maintain confidence and mental toughness through business challenges? In this powerful episode, former professional basketball player turned entrepreneur Dre Baldwin shares how his journey from bench warmer to pro athlete shaped his "Work On Your Game" framework - a methodology now used by business leaders worldwide to develop unshakeable discipline, authentic confidence, mental toughness, and personal initiative. Drawing from both athletic and entrepreneurial experience, Baldwin breaks down how structure creates discipline, why most people pursue confidence backward, and how to rebuild after major setbacks. This Episode Covers: • Why discipline must come before confidence and how to build it through proper structure • The critical difference between adding new capabilities versus giving yourself permission to stop being who you've always been • How to identify your true "zone of genius" and why you should outsource everything else • The counterintuitive approach to breaking down complex problems by leveraging others' strengths • Why mental toughness is the "security guard of mental health" and how to cultivate it • The power of "eustress" - voluntarily pursuing challenging situations that push you out of your comfort zone • The "1% rule" - taking full ownership of the small portion of life you can control to influence the 99% you can't
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Dre Baldwin – Damon introduces Dre, highlighting his journey from Division III basketball to a professional career and beyond. (01:30) The Basketball Journey – Dre shares how perseverance, exposure camps, and cold-calling agents helped him break into professional basketball. (05:00) The Origins of Work On Your Game – Dre explains how his experiences as an athlete inspired his framework for success. (09:00) Discipline Creates Confidence – Dre discusses the importance of discipline in building the foundation for self-belief. (12:33) Managing Time and Energy – Dre shares practical strategies for balancing work, personal development, and long-term goals. (17:00) The Power of Personal Initiative – Dre reflects on how taking action and creating opportunities has shaped his career. (21:30) Overcoming Setbacks with Mental Toughness – Dre talks about bouncing back from rejection and staying focused under pressure. (33:18) Lessons for Leaders and Entrepreneurs – Dre provides insights into applying his framework to leadership, sales, and business growth. (45:00) The Third Day – Dre introduces his latest book and its focus on pushing through discomfort to achieve professional-level performance. About Dre: Dre Baldwin, CEO and Founder of Work On Your Game Inc., went from being a bench player to having a 9-year professional basketball career before pioneering digital sports development content with over 8,000 videos and 103 million views. A four-time TEDx speaker and author of 35 books, Baldwin has partnered with major brands including Nike, Gatorade, and Buick, while developing his signature Work On Your Game framework for professional development. His impact continues through his daily masterclass podcast, which has amassed over 2,900 episodes and 7.3 million downloads, teaching professionals worldwide about mindset, strategy, systems, and accountability. Resources Referenced: Dre Baldwin on LinkedIn | |||
| 25 Jul 2024 | 38: The Real Key To Scaling Your Business with Omar Halabieh | 00:56:41 | |
Omar Halabieh, a global technology executive at Amazon, joins Darren Bridgett and Damon on the podcast today to share his inspiring journey and insights on leadership, mentorship, and building high-performing teams. Together, our trio explores Omar’s philosophy of servant leadership, the power of diversity and inclusion, and how to create a culture that fosters innovation and celebrates success. Episode Highlights:
About Our Guest: Omar Halabieh is Director of Software Engineering at Amazon, leading the technology function for payments across the Middle East and Africa. With over 20 years of experience in the technology industry, Omar is a passionate advocate for mentorship, leadership development, and building diverse and inclusive teams. He is also an active voice in the online leadership community, sharing insights and fostering connections through his thought-provoking LinkedIn posts. Connect with Our Guest: | |||
| 24 Jan 2024 | 3: Transform Your Goals into Reality: A Masterclass with Casey Hasten | 00:52:05 | |
In this episode of 'The Learn-It-All' Podcast, we dive into the world of strategic goal setting with the dynamic Casey Hasten. An acclaimed director of recruiting, podcast host, author, and self-proclaimed 'networking ninja', Hasten brings her contagious energy and expertise to explore how effective goal setting and productivity strategies can radically change personal and professional trajectories.
In This Episode: 1.Casey Hasten's Unique Approach to Goal Setting: Casey shares her journey and the origin of her comprehensive journal 'Awaken Your Potential', a tool designed for holistic goal management. 2. Mindset, Vision, and the Path to Success: The discussion dives into how a clear vision, aligned with personal values, sets the foundation for effective goal setting and achieving life-changing outcomes. 3. Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Change: Casey provides insights into how facing setbacks and embracing adaptability are crucial for growth and success, using personal anecdotes and professional experiences.
Guest Information: -Name: Casey Hasten - Background: Director of Recruiting at VIP, Podcast Host of 'We Are VIP', CEO of Success North Dallas, Author, and Coach. - Notable Achievements: Creator of 'Awaken Your Potential' journal, recognized for her innovative approaches to networking and personal development. - Why They’re Here: To share her expert insights on goal setting, personal growth, and the power of a positive mindset in achieving success. - Contact: Available through LinkedIn and her personal website.
Resources: Listeners can find Casey Hasten's 'Awaken Your Potential' journal available online and connect with her through her LinkedIn for more inspiring content on personal and professional development. - Casey Hasten’s ‘Awaken Your Potential’ Journal: https://www.caseyhasten.com/awakenjournal/ - Casey Hasten’s LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caseychasten/
Want to Learn More?: - Subscribe to 'The Learn-It-All' Podcast for more episodes on leadership, personal growth, and success stories. - Share this episode to inspire and educate others on the power of strategic goal setting. - Visit www.learnit.com for additional resources and learning opportunities.
Contact Information: - Website: www.learnit.com - Email: podcast@learnit.com - Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates and inspiring content. | |||
| 20 Dec 2024 | 106: The Leadership Trait You Can’t Ignore: Heart-Driven Leadership | Geoffrey Roche | 00:41:45 | |
Are your leaders solving problems too quickly without building trust and connection first? What if they approached leadership more like nurses with empathy, purpose, and humanity rather than rushing to solutions like surgeons? In this compelling episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, Geoffrey Roche, inaugural Director of Workforce Development at Siemens Healthineers, shares powerful insights about leading with heart and purpose drawn from his 16+ years in healthcare leadership. The son of a nurse, Geoffrey explains how the empathetic, human-centered approach of nurses offers a powerful model for effective leadership in any industry. Through vivid stories and examples, he illustrates how slowing down to truly understand people, building genuine trust, and creating psychological safety enables better solutions and more sustainable results than traditional command-and-control leadership. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Geoffrey Roche – Damon and Darren introduce Geoffrey, highlighting his background in healthcare and leadership. (01:30) Leadership Inspired by Nurses – Geoffrey shares how his mother’s work as a nurse influenced his empathetic approach to leadership. (05:30) Heart-Centered Leadership in Action – Geoffrey recounts stories of leaders who modeled trust, vulnerability, and collaboration to inspire high performance. (09:00) Addressing Toxic Leadership – Geoffrey discusses the impact of toxic leaders and strategies for challenging them with empathy and respect. (12:33) The Power of Storytelling – Geoffrey explains how storytelling fosters trust and connection within teams. (17:00) Building Trust with the Front Lines – Geoffrey shares lessons from healthcare, emphasizing the importance of listening to and empowering front-line workers. (21:30) Empathy and Tough Conversations – Geoffrey offers advice on navigating crucial conversations with compassion and purpose. (33:18) A Vision for Healthcare’s Future – Geoffrey paints a picture of what healthcare could look like with more heart-centered leadership. (42:00) Final Thoughts – Geoffrey shares parting advice on embracing empathy and purpose as core leadership principles.
About Geoffrey: As the inaugural Director of Workforce Development at Siemens Healthineers and National Healthcare Practice Executive Advisor at Core Education PBC, Geoffrey Roche is transforming healthcare workforce development through strategic innovation and equity-focused initiatives. Drawing from over 16 years of healthcare and higher education leadership experience, Roche's "Heart Leader" approach combines empathetic leadership with strategic vision, influenced by his early career working under a nurse CEO and his background as the son of a nurse. A Forbes Business Council member and sought-after speaker at major healthcare conferences including Becker's Annual Conference and... | |||
| 25 Apr 2024 | 16: Comedy Meets Purpose with Frank King, World Record 12x TEDx Talks | 00:46:06 | |
Frank King, a comedian turned mental health advocate and World Record Holder with 12 TEDx talks, shares his multifaceted journey from entertaining alongside Jerry Seinfeld and writing for "The Tonight Show," to dedicating himself to mental health advocacy. His experiences provide a unique look into the blend of comedy and advocacy, emphasizing the significance of choosing niche areas like suicide prevention for impactful public speaking. Frank also delves into the intricacies of transitioning to the corporate speaking circuit. Beyond his advocacy, Frank serves as a speaking coach, offering invaluable guidance to aspiring speakers on harnessing authenticity and strategic negotiation to thrive in their careers. His commitment to teaching others to blend personal stories with professional messages for resonance underscores the transformative power of embracing one’s truth for success and fulfillment. Episode Highlights: (00:00) Comedy, Public Speaking, and Bodybuilding - Frank King's journey through comedy, encounters with famous personalities, and dedication to fitness as a traveling comedian. (11:27) Navigating Public Speaking and Corporate Comedy - Corporate comedy, niching down, high fees, seizing opportunities, and negotiating for $7,500 speaking engagement. (19:12) Finding Passion in Public Speaking - Authenticity, effort, and passion lead to success in both personal and professional fulfillment. (30:16) Crafting Comedy - Crafting successful TEDx applications with a single idea, using humor and personal stories, and the role of tragedy in comedy. (36:41) Comedians Share Performance Tips - Personal anecdotes, airline humor, authenticity in art, Billy Joel's return, and unconventional note-taking techniques are discussed. (42:37) Stand Up Comedy and Law Enforcement - Stand-up comedy and law enforcement require quick thinking and observational skills, as discussed through personal experiences and the mechanics of humor. (50:18) Life Lessons and Inspirational Stories - Curiosity, hard work, listening, and finding your truth are crucial for success, as shown through Damon's story. About Our Guest: Frank King, known as the Mental Health Comedian, is a unique figure blending humor with serious topics to spark conversations about mental wellness. He began his career as a writer for "The Tonight Show" for 20 years, honing his comedic skills and timing. Transitioning from traditional stand-up comedy to focusing on mental health advocacy, King uses his personal experiences with depression and suicide to connect with and educate his audience. He believes in the healing power of humor and speaks openly about his own struggles, making him a sought-after speaker on mental health awareness. Through his engaging keynotes at conferences, schools, and corporate events, King not only entertains but also provides practical advice on managing mental health, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the signs of mental distress in ourselves and others. His approach demystifies mental health issues, making them accessible and discussable, thereby contributing significantly to reducing the stigma associated with mental health discussions. Resources: Free 30-minute Zoom call with Frank King Podcast Contact Information: | |||
| 16 Aug 2024 | 47: The 5 Days of Workplace Wellness I Day #2- The Silent Productivity Killer: How Better Sleep Can Transform Your Leadership | Bindi Delaney | 00:19:55 | |
Special Edition: National Wellness Month In honor of National Wellness Month 2024, the Learn-It-All Podcast presents a compelling 5-part series on Workplace Wellness for business leaders committed to enhancing their team's health and productivity. For the 5 weeks, join Learnit CEO Damon Lembi and renowned wellness expert Bindi Delaney as they share immediately useful and actionable strategies to boost overall wellbeing. This essential series covers: the whys and hows of physical activity, the importance of sleep, the mindset that matters, healthy nutrition, and heaalth accountability coaching. Tune in to equip yourself and your team with effective tools for achieving optimal health and peak performance. Don’t miss this chance to transform your workplace wellness! In this episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, host Damon Lembi dives into the essential yet often overlooked topic of sleep. Joined by health and wellness expert Bindi Delaney, they explore the significant impact of sleep on overall well-being, discussing the risks associated with poor sleep, such as increased chances of depression, anxiety, heart disease, and more. Bindi shares her top five project management-inspired techniques to improve sleep, from focusing on one task at a time to leveraging technology. The episode wraps up with practical tips on how to create a consistent sleep schedule, ensuring you can get the rest you need to thrive in both your personal and professional life.
Episode Highlights:
About our Guest: Bindi Delaney, hailing from Australia, is an accomplished health and fitness expert with over 15 years of experience. Having completed an Ironman triathlon, Bindi boasts a diverse background as a personal trainer, health coach, and educator. She currently spearheads the Small Steps Wellness Program at LearnIt, where she conducts workshops and individual coaching sessions aimed at helping people adopt healthier habits through small, sustainable steps. Connect with Bindi: Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com | |||
| 29 May 2024 | 21: Avoid the Biggest Financial Mistake: Shane Bender's Advice for Small Businesses | 00:37:09 | |
Feel free to dive deeper into the financial strategies that can elevate your small business by checking out Shane Bender, CPA's comprehensive insights and experiences. Learn about common financial pitfalls, best practices, and the importance of maintaining a healthy financial state through proactive management. Tune in to not only secure survival but also promote sustained growth and profitability! What you’ll learn from this episode The essential mindset for starting a successful business Common financial mistakes small businesses make and how to avoid them How financial planning and cash flow drive business decisions and growth A simple yet effective approach to managing business operations Tips and strategies for navigating cash flow during economic uncertainty Resources mentioned in this episode Forecast Your Future by Shane Bender | Kindle, Paperback, and Hardcover About Shane Bender, CPA Shane Bender, CPA, is the founder of Bender CFO Services Inc., established in January 2016 to enhance financial and accounting strategies for small businesses. With over 15 years of experience in corporate finance, holding positions such as Controller, Director, and VP of Finance, Shane has a proven track record of driving strategic growth and measurable results. He is the author of "Forecast Your Future: How Small Businesses Exchange Stress and Chaos for Cash and Clarity," published in 2018. Shane holds an MBA from Baylor University and lives in Fort Worth, Texas, with his wife, Holly, and their four children. His industry focus includes B2B services and digital marketing. Connect with Shane Website: Bender CFO Services LinkedIn: Shane Bender Connect with us Website: www.learnit.com LinkedIn: Learnit Instagram: @learnittraining Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us for more updates and insights! | |||
| 24 Jan 2024 | 5: Align Your Path with Your Leadership Purpose: A Conversation with Keith Sconiers | 00:52:40 | |
Episode Overview: Keith Sconiers takes center stage in this episode, where we discuss the powerful themes of resilience, purpose, and transformation. A Portland-based entrepreneur, financial consultant, and public speaker, Keith shares his incredible journey from a challenging childhood through his athletic career to finding his true calling. This episode diving into how understanding one's past and aligning it with one’s purpose can lead to profound personal and professional fulfillment.
In This Episode: 1. Keith's Life Story: From a turbulent childhood to becoming a Division 1 athlete and an entrepreneur, Keith’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of perseverance. 2. Transition from Athletics to Professional Success: Keith discusses the challenges and learnings from transitioning from a sports career to entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of understanding one’s core values and strengths. 3. Building Relationships and Service to Others: A key focus is on the significance of building meaningful relationships and the impact of serving others, which Keith believes is the essence of true success.
Guest Information: - Name: Keith Sconiers - Background: Entrepreneur, Financial Consultant, Public Speaker, and Coach. - Notable Achievements: Founder of Catalyst Training and Development, a platform aimed at helping individuals and organizations align their path with their purpose. - Why They’re Here: To inspire others with his life story and share insights on how to navigate life's challenges while staying true to one's purpose.
Resources: Listeners can connect with Keith Sconiers through his website and LinkedIn, where he shares more about his journey and insights on personal development and leadership. - Keith Sconiers website: https://keithsconiers.com/ - Keith Sconiers’ LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithsconiers/
Want to Learn More?: - For more episodes on personal growth and success stories, subscribe to 'The Learn-It-All' Podcast. - Share this episode to motivate others. - Visit www.learnit.com for additional resources and learning opportunities.
Contact Information: - Website: www.learnit.com - Email: podcast@learnit.com - Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for updates and inspiring content. | |||
| 23 Jul 2024 | 36: The Power of Doing Things Differently | George Andriopoulos | 00:46:27 | |
Today’s episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast features George Andriopoulos, CEO of Launchpad Five One Six, a management consultant with a passion for disruption, creativity, and building purpose-driven businesses. Damon Lembi and Darren Bridgett engage in a lively conversation with George, exploring his unique approach to consulting, the inspiring story behind his global public speaking platform, Speak, and the importance of evolving as a leader in an ever-changing world. This episode is a call to action for anyone looking to challenge conventional thinking, embrace their inner creative, and make a meaningful impact through authentic leadership. Episode Highlights: [0:00:00] George Andriopoulos, CEO of Launchpad Five One Six is introduced. [0:01:52] George discusses his transition from the pharma industry to consulting and founding Launchpad Five One Six, including his public speaking platform, Speak. [0:07:38] Highlights of Speak events' success and global reach, including pop-up events and a planned European tour. [0:09:08] Explanation that every speaker at Speak has a unique story, with the goal of touching even just one person. [0:13:25] Simple, one-word themes that resonate with both producers and speakers at Speak events. [0:14:30] George's shift from being ego-driven to becoming a person of service, influenced by a mission statement inspired by Jerry Maguire. [0:20:57] Comparison as the thief of joy, and the personal and professional harm it can cause. [0:24:18] The importance of disruption and innovation in business and personal life, and George's approach to consulting and public speaking. [0:29:52] Issues faced in consulting, especially with companies unwilling to accept accountability and evolve. [0:32:47] George's story about coaching his son's basketball team to a championship victory with creative and persistent methods. [0:37:32] The central role of creativity in George's professional and personal life, and the need for the right headspace for innovation. [0:38:08] His TEDx Talk theme encouraging learning from mistakes as a pathway to innovation and success. [0:41:34] Producing Speak events within organizations to showcase internal thought leadership and build culture. [0:43:41] George's lesser-known interest in cartooning and his past aspiration to be a comic book artist. About Our Guest: George Andriopoulos is the CEO of Launchpad Five One Six, a management consultant with a passion for disruption, innovation, and helping organizations thrive. He is also the co-founder of Speak, a global public speaking platform that empowers individuals to share their impactful stories and connect with others. George is known for his energetic and engaging speaking style, his commitment to service and community, and his unwavering belief in the transformative power of storytelling. Connect with Our Guest: Website: launchpad516.com Website: speakevent.com Website: georgeadriopoulos.com Instagram: @launchpadceo LinkedIn: GeorgeAndriopoulos Resources Referenced: The Impact of Innovation via Disruption Podcast Contact Information: | |||
| 22 Aug 2024 | 50: How Resilience and Relentless Drive Built an 8-Figure Business | Rick Jordan | 00:16:41 | |
How can you lead and grow a business while keeping your culture intact? On this episode of the Learn-It-All Podcast, Damon Lembi sits down with Rick Jordan, founder and CEO of ReachOut Technology, a managed service provider specializing in cybersecurity. Rick’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. Starting from scratch, he grew his company to eight figures before taking it public, all while staying true to his values and leadership style. In this conversation, Rick shares how the lessons he learned from baseball have shaped his leadership approach, emphasizing the importance of resilience, teamwork, and continuous learning. Rick also explains how his ability to self-reflect and kill his ego has been crucial in overcoming challenges, and why he believes that patience and curiosity are key to driving success in both business and life. Whether you’re a leader looking to scale your business, or someone interested in the mindset behind successful entrepreneurship, this episode is packed with actionable insights and real-world wisdom
Episode Highlights:
About Our Guest: Rick Jordan is the Founder and CEO of ReachOut Technology, a leading managed service provider in cybersecurity, which he built from the ground up and grew to eight figures before going public. A nationally recognized voice on cybersecurity, business ethics, and entrepreneurship, he is the best-selling author of Situational Ethics and the host of the popular podcast "All in with Rick Jordan." Rick is known for his strong emphasis on organizational culture, self-awareness in leadership, and resilience.
Connect with Rick Jordan:
Resources Referenced - All In with Rick Jordan Podcast: https://www.allinpodcast.com/ Podcast Contact Information | |||
| 06 Sep 2024 | 59: The 5 Days of Workplace Wellness | Day #5 - The 5 Surprising Ways Accountability Partners Boost Wellness Success | Bindi Delaney | 00:23:02 | |
Special Edition: National Wellness Month In honor of National Wellness Month 2024, the Learn-It-All Podcast presents a compelling 5-part series on Workplace Wellness for business leaders committed to enhancing their team's health and productivity. For the 5 weeks, join Learnit CEO Damon Lembi and renowned wellness expert Bindi Delaney as they share immediately useful and actionable strategies to boost overall wellbeing. This essential series covers: the whys and hows of physical activity, the importance of sleep, the mindset that matters, healthy nutrition, and heaalth accountability coaching. Tune in to equip yourself and your team with effective tools for achieving optimal health and peak performance. Don’t miss this chance to transform your workplace wellness! What if the key to achieving your wellness goals was as simple as having someone hold you accountable? How can an accountability partner or health coach significantly increase your chances of success, whether you're striving for better health, more productivity, or personal growth? In this final episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast’s five-part wellness series, Damon Lembi talks with wellness expert Bindi Delaney about the powerful role of accountability partners in achieving sustainable health and lifestyle changes. Bindi shares insights on how having a partner or coach helps bridge the gap between setting goals and actually accomplishing them. Whether you're looking to improve your fitness, nutrition, or work habits, this episode provides practical tips for choosing the right accountability partner and maximizing your results. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Bindi Delaney and Wellness Program – Damon welcomes Bindi and introduces the final episode of the Small Steps Wellness Program series, setting up a discussion about the importance of accountability in achieving wellness goals. (02:00) Overview of the Small Steps Wellness Program – Bindi explains the Small Steps Wellness Program, a series designed to help individuals take small but effective steps toward improving their health and managing stress. (03:55) The Role of Accountability Partners – Bindi and Damon discuss the role of accountability partners in helping people stick to their wellness goals, sharing personal experiences of how having a partner improves motivation and follow-through. (07:00) Three Key Qualities of a Good Accountability Partner – Bindi highlights the three qualities to look for in an accountability partner: supportiveness, honesty, and openness. (09:00) Five Reasons to Have an Accountability Partner – Bindi explains five key reasons why accountability partners are essential for achieving your wellness and personal goals, including motivation, support, and pushing your limits. (13:00) The Importance of Celebrating Small Wins – Damon and Bindi emphasize the need to celebrate small accomplishments on the path to larger goals and how accountability partners can help keep that momentum. (18:00) Health Coaches vs. Accountability Partners – Bindi explains the difference between a health coach and an accountability partner, and how both can play vital roles in helping you stay on track. (20:00) Recap of the Five-Part Wellness Series – Bindi gives a quick recap of the entire wellness series,... | |||
| 26 Sep 2024 | 67: How Great Leaders Build High-Performing Teams | Mike Phillips | 01:06:30 | |
Are You Ready to Lead in Today’s Fast-Changing World? If you’re not harnessing the full potential of emotional intelligence, vulnerability, and continuous learning you may not be keeping up with the constantly evolving qualities that define great business leadership. They're more than just buzzwords—they're the edge that sets exceptional leaders apart from the rest. In this episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, host Damon Lembi sits down with seasoned leadership coach and podcast veteran Mike Phillips to explore the traits that make truly great leaders stand out. From over 15 years of experience in coaching and interviewing thousands of leaders, Mike has culled valuable insights on self-awareness, leading by example, and how great leaders are always learning. Whether you're stepping into your first leadership role or looking to refine your leadership approach, this episode will arm you with the tools to navigate today’s complexities with confidence. This Episode Covers:
Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Mike Phillips – Damon introduces Mike Phillips, a seasoned leadership coach, consultant, and podcast host of *The Leadership Toolkit*. They set the stage for a deep dive into leadership across all levels. (02:00) The Key Traits of Great Leaders – Mike shares the top traits that define great leaders, starting with self-awareness and emotional intelligence. (05:46) Why Vulnerability is Essential – Mike and Damon discuss the role of vulnerability in leadership, particularly for new leaders who may struggle with imposter syndrome. (09:00) Continuous Learning in Leadership – Mike emphasizes the importance of staying curious and constantly learning as a leader, drawing on his own experiences. (12:33) The Role of Mentorship – Mike shares his insights on the role of mentors in leadership and how they’ve impacted his career. (17:42) Building Genuine Connections – Mike explains how great leaders connect with their teams by genuinely caring about their personal and professional growth. (21:30) Managing Emotional Intelligence and Confidence – Mike delves into how emotional intelligence and confidence work together in leadership, offering advice for balancing both. (33:18) How to Lead During Uncertain Times – Mike and Damon discuss strategies for leading effectively through uncertainty, including over-communication and transparency. About Mike Phillips: Mike Phillips is a leadership coach, consultant, and host of *The Leadership Toolkit* podcast, where he shares his knowledge on leadership, emotional intelligence, and team building. With over 15 years of experience in leadership coaching and consulting, Mike has helped thousands of leaders elevate their skills and grow their teams. He is passionate about teaching leaders how to connect with their people and lead with empathy, vulnerability, and confidence. Resources Referenced: - Mike Phillips’ LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leadtheteam/ | |||