Leadership, Financial Support, Operations…. And of course CULTURE!
Sep 14, 2021
This podcast was a unique and different podcast compared to the normal Culture Crush Business Podcast. This was an opportunity for our host, Kindra Maples, to join another podcast in the Phoenix community. Kelly Lorenzen, the host of the Collaborative Connections Podcast and the owner of KLM Consulting, brings 3 individuals together from the community to connect and collaborate.
The best part of this podcast conversation was the topic that it quickly leaned toward- CULTURE! This is a conversation that people can always contribute to and as we saw in the discussion here, it was a topic that they wanted to bring up and be part of.
This was a great opportunity for the Culture Crush Business Podcast and we hope to join forces with Kelly again in the future.
Alcyon Consulting can help you in two ways…Financial & Business Operations Management and Business Consulting & Advisory Services. With Alcyon’s financial and business operations support, you can shift the burden of managing and overseeing those necessary, but non revenue generating activities, to a professional who has the passion, experience, and training to assess, manage and improve your company’s business infrastructure thus freeing you to focus on generating revenue and building the business.
If you are looking for a fresh set of eyes to review and analyze any or all aspects of your business…from financial statements to fraud prevention, then Alcyon’s Business Consulting & Advisory Services could be the answer.
As an Accredited Small Business Consultant (ASBC), Bob and Alcyon utilize a proprietary approach to review and analyze your business, and along with its broad business partner network, Alcyon will not be able to not only make solid recommendations for improvements, but will be able to identify, vet and implement the right solution.
Bob Blum leverages over 35 years of extensive and varied experience, in both staff and leadership roles, helping companies build and maintain stable business operations by focusing on maximizing both financial and human assets.
These roles include Principal and Chief Financial Officer for Peerless Candy & Tobacco Company, Senior Human Resource Consultant for Peoples Energy Corporation, Controller for Ben Brooks & Associates, Controller for Incentive Logic, and most recently CFO for MAC6.
Bob is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), an Accredited Small Business Consultant (ASBC), a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt and has a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from Ohio University. In addition, Bob earned a Master’s in Human Resources, with a specialization in Organization Development, from Loyola University in Chicago.
Connect with Bob on LinkedIn.
Bell Insurance is one of the largest independently owned, full-service agencies. They’ve worked in insurance for more than 100 years, giving them unparalleled experience and expertise on policies designed to serve you, your family and your business in the best way possible.
in 1911 as Warner and Company Insurance in Fargo, N.D., they became Bell Insurance in 2019 when they joined forces with Bell Bank, one of the largest independently owned banks in the nation.
Bell is known for exceptional service and high integrity, where people matter, which shows in how their team members treat each other, their customers and those around them.
They understand one of your biggest challenges is managing around the things you can’t control. They can help you by building an insurance plan based on what you need to address the unique risks your operation faces.
By getting to know you and your business and working with you to figure out an insurance policy that gives you the right coverage at the best rate, they’ll help you protect what you’ve worked so hard to build.
Whether you need small business insurance or coverage for a large, niche operation, they’ll help you protect what matters with commercial insurance coverage options in your best interest, competitive pricing, stress-free claims, and the high-quality service you can expect from Bell.
Sara Kelley has over 20 years of experience serving clients in a risk management capacity. She started her insurance career in Chicago, IL with the world’s largest insurance brokerage firm and moved with them to the Phoenix market. Since being in Arizona, Mrs. Kelley has developed her expertise to serve the businesses that thrive in the Valley of the Sun.
Sara specializes in property and casualty insurance and risk management for a variety of industries including Healthcare, Social Services, and Non Profits, as well as Indian Nations, contractors, manufacturers, and many other businesses. Sara provides clients with insurance solutions for various insurable risks.
For Insureds, Sara Kelley delivers risk and policy coverage reviews that focus on your firm’s expense reduction, cash-flow improvement, balance sheet protection, and decision-making insight.
Connect with Sara on LinkedIn.
Conscious Capitalism Arizona
Free enterprise capitalism has served to lift more people out of poverty than any other socio-economic system ever conceived – empowering social cooperation, human progress, and elevating humanity.
Good business is the answer to many of the global issues that humankind is facing.
For too long, capitalism in the media has been associated with lying, cheating, manipulating, gaming the system, and taking advantage of society.
But for every horror story being told about the selfishness of corporate America and Wall Street, there are thousands of stories of businesses supporting their communities, investing in their employees, and making the world a better place.
We are working to change the capitalism narrative by shining a bright light on good business – telling the stories of
conscious Arizona companies (and encouraging others to follow in their footsteps).
There is a lot in her background that has led Kindra Maples to where she is today.
Her past experiences, interactions, careers, and partnerships have led her to growing the roles she holds in the community; the VP of Volunteers with Conscious Capitalism Arizona, Sales Development with YellowBird, and the host of the Culture Crush Business Podcast.
She is spartan racer, past animal trainer, previous magician’s assistant, and has a weakness for Oreo cookie shakes. Her journey working with people actually started working with animals as a teenager (don’t worry we won’t go that far back for her bio).
She worked for over 15 years in the zoo industry working with animals and the public. Her passion of working with animals shifted into working with people in education, operations and leadership roles. From there her passion of leadership and helping people develop has continued to grow.
Her experience in non-profit operations, communications, and program engagement has brought her to the place she is today. Her experiences have built her passion and her “why” in areas of culture building, engagement, and growing strong teams.
Connect with Kindra on LinkedIn and follow Conscious Capitalism Arizona on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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This episode of Culture Crush Business is a real deep dive in the space of building communities that help with growing and positive well being. Kindra deep dives into the journeys of Nathan Coury and Ryan Tomita, two entrepreneurs on a mission to build supportive communities and foster personal growth. Nathan kicks things off by sharing his insights into creating human-centered businesses that prioritize the well-being of employees, leading to remarkable retention rates and minimal staffing challenges. Then, Ryan, the brains behind Middlefinger Mantras, opens up about his struggles with mental health and how they inspired him to create safe spaces for men to find support and empowerment. As if that wasn’t enough, Nathan and Ryan also get into the nitty-gritty of balancing masculine and feminine energies in business. They stress the importance of collaboration and connection, rather than competition, in creating thriving workplace environments. They tackle the stigma head-on and wrap things up with a powerful call to prioritize mental well-being and reach out for support when needed. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to cultivate a culture of care and growth in their personal and professional lives.
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This episode of the Culture Crush Business podcast is a real one- are you ready for it? This conversation includes insightful moments on personal journeys, mental health, and workplace culture. Host Kindra Maples and guest co-host Karen Nowicki dive in with guests Mathew Blades and Eric Brooker, to discuss the power of vulnerability in fostering connections and supporting employees through challenges. They highlight the importance of initiating difficult conversations, building relationship capital, and creating empathetic workplace cultures. Hear impactful stories, like Eric Brooker’s, illustrating the significance of addressing personal struggles promptly, and gaining insights into navigating high-stakes jobs while prioritizing self-care. Join the conversation to learn how to foster resilience and empathy in your workplace today.
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In this insightful episode of the Culture Crush Business podcast, the concept of culture is explored from various perspectives. Kindra Maples, sets the tone by defining culture as the shared rhythm and essence that emerges when people come together, emphasizing its pervasive influence across all aspects of life. Guests Stephen Smith and Jay Rayhons contribute their experiences in sports and business, discussing the importance of understanding and defining one's culture. The conversation deepens as Jay Rayhons shares his approach to financial work, prioritizing understanding clients' personal goals and values before delving into financial details. This emphasis on recognizing deeper values beyond monetary concerns is connected to leadership and organizational culture. The discussion expands with insights from Stephen Smith on maintaining strong connections within remote or hybrid teams, emphasizing proximity, time, and energy investment. Consistency in leadership is highlighted, drawing parallels to military training and the Ooda loop. Trust within organizations is explored, with mentions of the "Trust Factor" book and its O-factor assessment tool. The episode concludes with the guests encouraging listeners to seek the good in others, contributing positively to organizational culture. The importance of genuine inclusivity, openness, and ongoing improvement is emphasized, providing a holistic exploration of culture in the business context. A few books that were talked about in the conversation: Trust Factor: The Science of Creating High-Performance Companies by Paul J. Zak Team of Teams: New Rules of Engagement for a Complex World by General Stanley McChrystal , Tantum Collins Creativity, Inc. (The Expanded Edition): Overcoming the Unseen Forces That Stand in the Way of True Inspiration by Ed Catmull and Amy Wallace Eleven Rings: The Soul of Success by Phil Jackson and Hugh Delehanty Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy Seals Lead and Win by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin A few finals thoughts to take from the conversation: Know yourself and include others on the journey. Look for the good in someone and you will find it.
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This was a unique episode for the Culture Crush Business Podcast. We are always talking about ways to improve company culture so companies can thrive, and this episode was no different in that aspect. The topic was one that is often left out from the conversation of thriving company cultures, the focus on process improvement and the technology for improving the operations and culture of the company. We discuss the need to focus on technology and resources that will help with the strategic side of the company in order to treat employees as humans rather than machines, which is essential for preventing burnout and maintaining a motivated team. Effective leadership involves identifying and leveraging employees’ strengths and interests. This allows them to excel in their roles and contribute to the company’s growth. Offloading repetitive tasks to AI or outsourcing can free up employees to concentrate on their core competencies. AI can be a game-changer for businesses, especially when handling data-intensive tasks. It can optimize scheduling, automate processes, and even enhance customer experiences, as demonstrated by the example of creating a Taylor Swift-inspired AI bot. The conversation highlights the need to adapt to rapidly evolving technology. The emergence of new career paths, such as prompt engineering, underscores the importance of staying current and embracing technological advancements. Many companies use numerous software tools, often without realizing the extent of their tech stack. Lauri Erickson emphasizes the importance of integrating these tools to streamline operations and data management, ultimately saving time and resources. This episode focuses on a few key takeaways for our listeners: Empower the employees to focus on the true strengths The power of AI in enhancing efficiencies Continuous adaptation to evolving technology Integration of software and tools Overall, the episode emphasizes the value of fostering a positive company culture, empowering employees, and leveraging outsourcing, technology, and AI to enhance efficiency and employee satisfaction. It also underscores the importance of staying open to new possibilities in the ever-changing business landscape. Thank you to James Christensen, the President of Gateway Bank, for joining in this conversation and adding his additional insight and stories as the co- host for this episode with Lauri and Ben. Located in Tempe, Arizona, Project Pros is a family-owned business that’s dedicated to alleviating the administrative burdens faced by small business owners. Their comprehensive support services are designed to give business owners more time, spanning areas like bookkeeping, HR, social media management, phone answering, and virtual administrative assistance. Project Pros emerged from CEO Lauri Erickson’s understanding of the need to shift small business owners from working ‘in’ their business to working ‘on’ it. The team at Project Pros fosters a synergetic environment, collaborating to find solutions for each client’s unique needs. Their approach emphasizes collaborative problem-solving, ensuring that every team member’s skills contribute to the clients’ success. Project Pros goes beyond traditional outsourcing, streamlining processes to save their clients both time and money. They serve as an extension of their clients’ businesses, partnering at every stage to facilitate the growth and success of those businesses.
When it comes to improving company culture, there are a tremendous amount of resources out there to help companies. Finding which resources are the right fit for your company is the tricky part. Lucky for you, we brought together two amazing ladies that offer support that can improve all companies! These resources help to bring creativity and clarity to your teams! This conversation talked about the support and structure that both Sarah’s company and Anca’s company can help provide to others. There is a fear of failure and these ladies are here to help build the teams so that the fear can be concurred and supported. Investing in outside support and facilitation is one of the best things a company can do to help improve their teams and company culture. Facilitators use techniques that stimulate creative thinking and innovation- and these ladies are the pinnacle of creativity! You should listen to this podcast if you…. are having trouble communicating with your team and trying to find the right resources to help. would like to find a unique way to improve your meetings and sharing top highlights with the company. need a little support defining the goals of the meetings and the communication taking place. are ready to invest in your company to improve the culture of the people and the company as a whole. if you need a little help capturing and synthesizing the details from your meetings. Culture Crush is here to support and it starts with these two amazing women led companies!
This episode of Culture Crush Business is a real deep dive in the space of building communities that help with growing and positive well being. Kindra deep dives into the journeys of Nathan Coury and Ryan Tomita, two entrepreneurs on a mission to build supportive communities and foster personal growth. Nathan kicks things off by sharing his insights into creating human-centered businesses that prioritize the well-being of employees, leading to remarkable retention rates and minimal staffing challenges. Then, Ryan, the brains behind Middlefinger Mantras, opens up about his struggles with mental health and how they inspired him to create safe spaces for men to find support and empowerment. As if that wasn’t enough, Nathan and Ryan also get into the nitty-gritty of balancing masculine and feminine energies in business. They stress the importance of collaboration and connection, rather than competition, in creating thriving workplace environments. They tackle the stigma head-on and wrap things up with a powerful call to prioritize mental well-being and reach out for support when needed. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to cultivate a culture of care and growth in their personal and professional lives.
This episode of the Culture Crush Business Podcast explores the imperative of fostering inclusive company cultures through a fruitful conversation with Elena Joy Thurston and Gabe Hagen. The discussion underscores the need for inclusive leadership, especially with changing workforce demographics, emphasizing small changes to enhance belonging and engagement. Additionally, the conversation delves into communication challenges in food service businesses, with Gabe using digital checklists to facilitate staff feedback. Elena advocates for non-binary thinking, emphasizing impact over intent, and both guests stress the importance of vulnerability, learning, and adaptation in creating inclusive work cultures. Overall, the episode emphasizes fostering inclusive cultures in corporate settings to attract diverse talent, focusing on communication, accountability, and continuous improvement.
This episode of the Culture Crush Business podcast is a real one- are you ready for it? This conversation includes insightful moments on personal journeys, mental health, and workplace culture. Host Kindra Maples and guest co-host Karen Nowicki dive in with guests Mathew Blades and Eric Brooker, to discuss the power of vulnerability in fostering connections and supporting employees through challenges. They highlight the importance of initiating difficult conversations, building relationship capital, and creating empathetic workplace cultures. Hear impactful stories, like Eric Brooker’s, illustrating the significance of addressing personal struggles promptly, and gaining insights into navigating high-stakes jobs while prioritizing self-care. Join the conversation to learn how to foster resilience and empathy in your workplace today.
In the latest Culture Crush Business Podcast episode, host Kindra Maples and guest co-host James Christensen dive into the dynamic intersection of military culture, personal values, and high-performance leadership with esteemed guests Waldo Waldman and Dan Clark. The conversation weaves through a captivating exploration of resilience, identity, and the pivotal role belief plays in shaping organizational culture. Dan, drawing from his triumph over paralysis, outlines a three-step approach to nurturing a positive culture—expanded belief, elevated expectations, and empowered behavior. He emphasizes the leader’s crucial role in instilling shared beliefs and fostering transparent communication. Waldo chimes in by stressing the significance of mutual support, admitting mistakes, and aligning with team values. The podcast’s second half delves into the art of professional speaking, emphasizing the importance of customization, embracing discomfort for growth, and the role of vulnerability in ineffective leadership. Dan and Waldo passionately advocate for leaders to connect with all levels of employees, address trust and ego challenges, and embrace a culture of continuous improvement. This riveting and enlightening episode delivers a comprehensive view of leadership, seamlessly weaving together military principles, personal narratives, and actionable advice for fostering a positive and growth-centric organizational culture. There is a take away in here for everyone!!
In this insightful episode of the Culture Crush Business podcast, the concept of culture is explored from various perspectives. Kindra Maples, sets the tone by defining culture as the shared rhythm and essence that emerges when people come together, emphasizing its pervasive influence across all aspects of life. Guests Stephen Smith and Jay Rayhons contribute their experiences in sports and business, discussing the importance of understanding and defining one's culture. The conversation deepens as Jay Rayhons shares his approach to financial work, prioritizing understanding clients' personal goals and values before delving into financial details. This emphasis on recognizing deeper values beyond monetary concerns is connected to leadership and organizational culture. The discussion expands with insights from Stephen Smith on maintaining strong connections within remote or hybrid teams, emphasizing proximity, time, and energy investment. Consistency in leadership is highlighted, drawing parallels to military training and the Ooda loop. Trust within organizations is explored, with mentions of the "Trust Factor" book and its O-factor assessment tool. The episode concludes with the guests encouraging listeners to seek the good in others, contributing positively to organizational culture. The importance of genuine inclusivity, openness, and ongoing improvement is emphasized, providing a holistic exploration of culture in the business context. A few books that were talked about in the conversation: Trust Factor: The Science of Creating High-Performance Companies by Paul J. Zak Team of Teams: New Rules of Engagement for a Complex World by General Stanley McChrystal , Tantum Collins Creativity, Inc. (The Expanded Edition): Overcoming the Unseen Forces That Stand in the Way of True Inspiration by Ed Catmull and Amy Wallace Eleven Rings: The Soul of Success by Phil Jackson and Hugh Delehanty Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy Seals Lead and Win by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin A few finals thoughts to take from the conversation: Know yourself and include others on the journey. Look for the good in someone and you will find it.
This Podcast Episode is on “from the vault.” This episode has a very personal side and connection for Kindra and her guest, Jean Brunson. In this podcast episode, Kindra dives into a candid conversation about the evolution of the podcast and its focus on improving company culture. They reflect on how Jean was the one that pushed Kindra towards a more inclusive approach, emphasizing the significance of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Belonging (DEIAB). The conversation touches on the challenge of addressing diversity and inclusion in the workplace, acknowledging the reluctance some individuals may have in expressing their feelings or concerns due to fear of repercussions. The hosts highlight the need for safe spaces to have open conversations about diversity, recognizing the unique struggles faced by different communities. As the discussion weaves through personal experiences and the impact of diversity in various settings, it emphasizes the multifaceted nature of company culture. They share insights on how the podcast evolved to embrace a broader definition of company culture, extending beyond big corporations to encompass small businesses and diverse groups. The episode also delves into the significance of Juneteenth, tying it to the broader conversation on diversity, inclusion, and belonging. The hosts discuss the recent federal recognition of Juneteenth as a holiday and reflect on the importance of acknowledging historical events that have shaped the experiences of black communities. Throughout the episode, there is an emphasis on the power of conversations, the importance of listening, and the need to create spaces where diverse voices can be heard. Kindra and Jean share their personal growth through this journey, illustrating the transformative impact of intentional efforts to embrace diversity and foster inclusivity in both professional and personal spheres. Thank you Jean Brunson for your contribution to the growth of the Culture Crush Business and Podcast.
In our latest podcast episode, we had the pleasure of hosting Lindsay, a seasoned leader with almost 17 years of dedicated service at Desert Financial Credit Union, and Nikki, a passionate advocate for employee engagement and the driving force behind PeopleForward Network. This conversation, as the others that we have, was open, authentic and natural. The conversation led to examples of both companies leading in a human centered and people focused direction. Lindsay highlighted the importance Desert Financial places on employee satisfaction and creating a workplace culture that empowers and values its staff. This commitment translates into exceptional service for members, where every interaction is more than a transaction. The organization focuses on connection, community, and service to others. Nikki, from PeopleForward Network, provided insights into their mission of sharing resources and insights with a global community of people-first minded leaders. From podcast production to growth consulting, PeopleForward Network collaborates with partners to make a meaningful impact on business development and marketing. These women are making waves in their industries in order to build companies with great cultures. If you are looking for examples, stories, and support for growing your company culture, then this is an episode for you to listen to.
In the modern business landscape, a company’s culture is not just an internal matter. It has evolved into a valuable asset that can significantly impact a company’s success and reputation. We know this! However, having a fantastic company culture is not enough. It’s equally crucial to communicate this culture to the broader community and potential partners. One effective way to achieve this is by partnering with experts that specialize in marketing and telling the story of your company’s exceptional culture, such as achieving recognition as one of the best places to work. Having an outstanding company culture is a remarkable achievement in itself, but it’s not enough if it remains hidden within the walls of your organization. To truly reap the benefits of a great culture, you must share it with your community, industry peers, and potential partners. Many companies face the challenge of being the best-kept secret in terms of culture because they don’t proactively communicate their strengths. We had the chance to highlight two amazing ladies from BestCompaniesAZ to talk about the importance of company culture, the benefits of telling the story of company culture, and discussing the work that led them to this space to help shine the light on other companies. BestCompaniesAZ has the expertise to craft compelling narratives around your culture, highlighting what makes your company unique and showcasing the human side of your organization. They are the cheerleaders that you didn’t know you needed! When potential partners and clients hear stories about your great company culture, they are more likely to view your organization as a desirable partner and provider of goods or services. So let’s start telling more stories about great culture! Are you a company interested in sharing the remarkable story of your outstanding corporate culture? Are you a business seeking to demonstrate to the community just how exceptional your company culture is? Do you specialize in conducting employee engagement surveys that reveal the excellence of your company’s culture? Are you in search of the perfect awards to highlight and elevate the narrative of your company’s culture? Well, then you should listen to this episode!!!
This was a unique episode for the Culture Crush Business Podcast. We are always talking about ways to improve company culture so companies can thrive, and this episode was no different in that aspect. The topic was one that is often left out from the conversation of thriving company cultures, the focus on process improvement and the technology for improving the operations and culture of the company. We discuss the need to focus on technology and resources that will help with the strategic side of the company in order to treat employees as humans rather than machines, which is essential for preventing burnout and maintaining a motivated team. Effective leadership involves identifying and leveraging employees’ strengths and interests. This allows them to excel in their roles and contribute to the company’s growth. Offloading repetitive tasks to AI or outsourcing can free up employees to concentrate on their core competencies. AI can be a game-changer for businesses, especially when handling data-intensive tasks. It can optimize scheduling, automate processes, and even enhance customer experiences, as demonstrated by the example of creating a Taylor Swift-inspired AI bot. The conversation highlights the need to adapt to rapidly evolving technology. The emergence of new career paths, such as prompt engineering, underscores the importance of staying current and embracing technological advancements. Many companies use numerous software tools, often without realizing the extent of their tech stack. Lauri Erickson emphasizes the importance of integrating these tools to streamline operations and data management, ultimately saving time and resources. This episode focuses on a few key takeaways for our listeners: Empower the employees to focus on the true strengths The power of AI in enhancing efficiencies Continuous adaptation to evolving technology Integration of software and tools Overall, the episode emphasizes the value of fostering a positive company culture, empowering employees, and leveraging outsourcing, technology, and AI to enhance efficiency and employee satisfaction. It also underscores the importance of staying open to new possibilities in the ever-changing business landscape. Thank you to James Christensen, the President of Gateway Bank, for joining in this conversation and adding his additional insight and stories as the co- host for this episode with Lauri and Ben. Located in Tempe, Arizona, Project Pros is a family-owned business that’s dedicated to alleviating the administrative burdens faced by small business owners. Their comprehensive support services are designed to give business owners more time, spanning areas like bookkeeping, HR, social media management, phone answering, and virtual administrative assistance. Project Pros emerged from CEO Lauri Erickson’s understanding of the need to shift small business owners from working ‘in’ their business to working ‘on’ it. The team at Project Pros fosters a synergetic environment, collaborating to find solutions for each client’s unique needs. Their approach emphasizes collaborative problem-solving, ensuring that every team member’s skills contribute to the clients’ success. Project Pros goes beyond traditional outsourcing, streamlining processes to save their clients both time and money. They serve as an extension of their clients’ businesses, partnering at every stage to facilitate the growth and success of those businesses.
When it comes to improving company culture, there are a tremendous amount of resources out there to help companies. Finding which resources are the right fit for your company is the tricky part. Lucky for you, we brought together two amazing ladies that offer support that can improve all companies! These resources help to bring creativity and clarity to your teams! This conversation talked about the support and structure that both Sarah’s company and Anca’s company can help provide to others. There is a fear of failure and these ladies are here to help build the teams so that the fear can be concurred and supported. Investing in outside support and facilitation is one of the best things a company can do to help improve their teams and company culture. Facilitators use techniques that stimulate creative thinking and innovation- and these ladies are the pinnacle of creativity! You should listen to this podcast if you…. are having trouble communicating with your team and trying to find the right resources to help. would like to find a unique way to improve your meetings and sharing top highlights with the company. need a little support defining the goals of the meetings and the communication taking place. are ready to invest in your company to improve the culture of the people and the company as a whole. if you need a little help capturing and synthesizing the details from your meetings. Culture Crush is here to support and it starts with these two amazing women led companies!
This episode of Culture Crush Business is a real deep dive in the space of building communities that help with growing and positive well being. Kindra deep dives into the journeys of Nathan Coury and Ryan Tomita, two entrepreneurs on a mission to build supportive communities and foster personal growth. Nathan kicks things off by sharing his insights into creating human-centered businesses that prioritize the well-being of employees, leading to remarkable retention rates and minimal staffing challenges. Then, Ryan, the brains behind Middlefinger Mantras, opens up about his struggles with mental health and how they inspired him to create safe spaces for men to find support and empowerment. As if that wasn’t enough, Nathan and Ryan also get into the nitty-gritty of balancing masculine and feminine energies in business. They stress the importance of collaboration and connection, rather than competition, in creating thriving workplace environments. They tackle the stigma head-on and wrap things up with a powerful call to prioritize mental well-being and reach out for support when needed. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to cultivate a culture of care and growth in their personal and professional lives.
This episode of the Culture Crush Business Podcast explores the imperative of fostering inclusive company cultures through a fruitful conversation with Elena Joy Thurston and Gabe Hagen. The discussion underscores the need for inclusive leadership, especially with changing workforce demographics, emphasizing small changes to enhance belonging and engagement. Additionally, the conversation delves into communication challenges in food service businesses, with Gabe using digital checklists to facilitate staff feedback. Elena advocates for non-binary thinking, emphasizing impact over intent, and both guests stress the importance of vulnerability, learning, and adaptation in creating inclusive work cultures. Overall, the episode emphasizes fostering inclusive cultures in corporate settings to attract diverse talent, focusing on communication, accountability, and continuous improvement.
This episode of the Culture Crush Business podcast is a real one- are you ready for it? This conversation includes insightful moments on personal journeys, mental health, and workplace culture. Host Kindra Maples and guest co-host Karen Nowicki dive in with guests Mathew Blades and Eric Brooker, to discuss the power of vulnerability in fostering connections and supporting employees through challenges. They highlight the importance of initiating difficult conversations, building relationship capital, and creating empathetic workplace cultures. Hear impactful stories, like Eric Brooker’s, illustrating the significance of addressing personal struggles promptly, and gaining insights into navigating high-stakes jobs while prioritizing self-care. Join the conversation to learn how to foster resilience and empathy in your workplace today.
In the latest Culture Crush Business Podcast episode, host Kindra Maples and guest co-host James Christensen dive into the dynamic intersection of military culture, personal values, and high-performance leadership with esteemed guests Waldo Waldman and Dan Clark. The conversation weaves through a captivating exploration of resilience, identity, and the pivotal role belief plays in shaping organizational culture. Dan, drawing from his triumph over paralysis, outlines a three-step approach to nurturing a positive culture—expanded belief, elevated expectations, and empowered behavior. He emphasizes the leader’s crucial role in instilling shared beliefs and fostering transparent communication. Waldo chimes in by stressing the significance of mutual support, admitting mistakes, and aligning with team values. The podcast’s second half delves into the art of professional speaking, emphasizing the importance of customization, embracing discomfort for growth, and the role of vulnerability in ineffective leadership. Dan and Waldo passionately advocate for leaders to connect with all levels of employees, address trust and ego challenges, and embrace a culture of continuous improvement. This riveting and enlightening episode delivers a comprehensive view of leadership, seamlessly weaving together military principles, personal narratives, and actionable advice for fostering a positive and growth-centric organizational culture. There is a take away in here for everyone!!
In this insightful episode of the Culture Crush Business podcast, the concept of culture is explored from various perspectives. Kindra Maples, sets the tone by defining culture as the shared rhythm and essence that emerges when people come together, emphasizing its pervasive influence across all aspects of life. Guests Stephen Smith and Jay Rayhons contribute their experiences in sports and business, discussing the importance of understanding and defining one's culture. The conversation deepens as Jay Rayhons shares his approach to financial work, prioritizing understanding clients' personal goals and values before delving into financial details. This emphasis on recognizing deeper values beyond monetary concerns is connected to leadership and organizational culture. The discussion expands with insights from Stephen Smith on maintaining strong connections within remote or hybrid teams, emphasizing proximity, time, and energy investment. Consistency in leadership is highlighted, drawing parallels to military training and the Ooda loop. Trust within organizations is explored, with mentions of the "Trust Factor" book and its O-factor assessment tool. The episode concludes with the guests encouraging listeners to seek the good in others, contributing positively to organizational culture. The importance of genuine inclusivity, openness, and ongoing improvement is emphasized, providing a holistic exploration of culture in the business context. A few books that were talked about in the conversation: Trust Factor: The Science of Creating High-Performance Companies by Paul J. Zak Team of Teams: New Rules of Engagement for a Complex World by General Stanley McChrystal , Tantum Collins Creativity, Inc. (The Expanded Edition): Overcoming the Unseen Forces That Stand in the Way of True Inspiration by Ed Catmull and Amy Wallace Eleven Rings: The Soul of Success by Phil Jackson and Hugh Delehanty Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy Seals Lead and Win by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin A few finals thoughts to take from the conversation: Know yourself and include others on the journey. Look for the good in someone and you will find it.
This Podcast Episode is on “from the vault.” This episode has a very personal side and connection for Kindra and her guest, Jean Brunson. In this podcast episode, Kindra dives into a candid conversation about the evolution of the podcast and its focus on improving company culture. They reflect on how Jean was the one that pushed Kindra towards a more inclusive approach, emphasizing the significance of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Belonging (DEIAB). The conversation touches on the challenge of addressing diversity and inclusion in the workplace, acknowledging the reluctance some individuals may have in expressing their feelings or concerns due to fear of repercussions. The hosts highlight the need for safe spaces to have open conversations about diversity, recognizing the unique struggles faced by different communities. As the discussion weaves through personal experiences and the impact of diversity in various settings, it emphasizes the multifaceted nature of company culture. They share insights on how the podcast evolved to embrace a broader definition of company culture, extending beyond big corporations to encompass small businesses and diverse groups. The episode also delves into the significance of Juneteenth, tying it to the broader conversation on diversity, inclusion, and belonging. The hosts discuss the recent federal recognition of Juneteenth as a holiday and reflect on the importance of acknowledging historical events that have shaped the experiences of black communities. Throughout the episode, there is an emphasis on the power of conversations, the importance of listening, and the need to create spaces where diverse voices can be heard. Kindra and Jean share their personal growth through this journey, illustrating the transformative impact of intentional efforts to embrace diversity and foster inclusivity in both professional and personal spheres. Thank you Jean Brunson for your contribution to the growth of the Culture Crush Business and Podcast.
In our latest podcast episode, we had the pleasure of hosting Lindsay, a seasoned leader with almost 17 years of dedicated service at Desert Financial Credit Union, and Nikki, a passionate advocate for employee engagement and the driving force behind PeopleForward Network. This conversation, as the others that we have, was open, authentic and natural. The conversation led to examples of both companies leading in a human centered and people focused direction. Lindsay highlighted the importance Desert Financial places on employee satisfaction and creating a workplace culture that empowers and values its staff. This commitment translates into exceptional service for members, where every interaction is more than a transaction. The organization focuses on connection, community, and service to others. Nikki, from PeopleForward Network, provided insights into their mission of sharing resources and insights with a global community of people-first minded leaders. From podcast production to growth consulting, PeopleForward Network collaborates with partners to make a meaningful impact on business development and marketing. These women are making waves in their industries in order to build companies with great cultures. If you are looking for examples, stories, and support for growing your company culture, then this is an episode for you to listen to.
In the modern business landscape, a company’s culture is not just an internal matter. It has evolved into a valuable asset that can significantly impact a company’s success and reputation. We know this! However, having a fantastic company culture is not enough. It’s equally crucial to communicate this culture to the broader community and potential partners. One effective way to achieve this is by partnering with experts that specialize in marketing and telling the story of your company’s exceptional culture, such as achieving recognition as one of the best places to work. Having an outstanding company culture is a remarkable achievement in itself, but it’s not enough if it remains hidden within the walls of your organization. To truly reap the benefits of a great culture, you must share it with your community, industry peers, and potential partners. Many companies face the challenge of being the best-kept secret in terms of culture because they don’t proactively communicate their strengths. We had the chance to highlight two amazing ladies from BestCompaniesAZ to talk about the importance of company culture, the benefits of telling the story of company culture, and discussing the work that led them to this space to help shine the light on other companies. BestCompaniesAZ has the expertise to craft compelling narratives around your culture, highlighting what makes your company unique and showcasing the human side of your organization. They are the cheerleaders that you didn’t know you needed! When potential partners and clients hear stories about your great company culture, they are more likely to view your organization as a desirable partner and provider of goods or services. So let’s start telling more stories about great culture! Are you a company interested in sharing the remarkable story of your outstanding corporate culture? Are you a business seeking to demonstrate to the community just how exceptional your company culture is? Do you specialize in conducting employee engagement surveys that reveal the excellence of your company’s culture? Are you in search of the perfect awards to highlight and elevate the narrative of your company’s culture? Well, then you should listen to this episode!!!
This was a unique episode for the Culture Crush Business Podcast. We are always talking about ways to improve company culture so companies can thrive, and this episode was no different in that aspect. The topic was one that is often left out from the conversation of thriving company cultures, the focus on process improvement and the technology for improving the operations and culture of the company. We discuss the need to focus on technology and resources that will help with the strategic side of the company in order to treat employees as humans rather than machines, which is essential for preventing burnout and maintaining a motivated team. Effective leadership involves identifying and leveraging employees’ strengths and interests. This allows them to excel in their roles and contribute to the company’s growth. Offloading repetitive tasks to AI or outsourcing can free up employees to concentrate on their core competencies. AI can be a game-changer for businesses, especially when handling data-intensive tasks. It can optimize scheduling, automate processes, and even enhance customer experiences, as demonstrated by the example of creating a Taylor Swift-inspired AI bot. The conversation highlights the need to adapt to rapidly evolving technology. The emergence of new career paths, such as prompt engineering, underscores the importance of staying current and embracing technological advancements. Many companies use numerous software tools, often without realizing the extent of their tech stack. Lauri Erickson emphasizes the importance of integrating these tools to streamline operations and data management, ultimately saving time and resources. This episode focuses on a few key takeaways for our listeners: Empower the employees to focus on the true strengths The power of AI in enhancing efficiencies Continuous adaptation to evolving technology Integration of software and tools Overall, the episode emphasizes the value of fostering a positive company culture, empowering employees, and leveraging outsourcing, technology, and AI to enhance efficiency and employee satisfaction. It also underscores the importance of staying open to new possibilities in the ever-changing business landscape. Thank you to James Christensen, the President of Gateway Bank, for joining in this conversation and adding his additional insight and stories as the co- host for this episode with Lauri and Ben. Located in Tempe, Arizona, Project Pros is a family-owned business that’s dedicated to alleviating the administrative burdens faced by small business owners. Their comprehensive support services are designed to give business owners more time, spanning areas like bookkeeping, HR, social media management, phone answering, and virtual administrative assistance. Project Pros emerged from CEO Lauri Erickson’s understanding of the need to shift small business owners from working ‘in’ their business to working ‘on’ it. The team at Project Pros fosters a synergetic environment, collaborating to find solutions for each client’s unique needs. Their approach emphasizes collaborative problem-solving, ensuring that every team member’s skills contribute to the clients’ success. Project Pros goes beyond traditional outsourcing, streamlining processes to save their clients both time and money. They serve as an extension of their clients’ businesses, partnering at every stage to facilitate the growth and success of those businesses.
When it comes to improving company culture, there are a tremendous amount of resources out there to help companies. Finding which resources are the right fit for your company is the tricky part. Lucky for you, we brought together two amazing ladies that offer support that can improve all companies! These resources help to bring creativity and clarity to your teams! This conversation talked about the support and structure that both Sarah’s company and Anca’s company can help provide to others. There is a fear of failure and these ladies are here to help build the teams so that the fear can be concurred and supported. Investing in outside support and facilitation is one of the best things a company can do to help improve their teams and company culture. Facilitators use techniques that stimulate creative thinking and innovation- and these ladies are the pinnacle of creativity! You should listen to this podcast if you…. are having trouble communicating with your team and trying to find the right resources to help. would like to find a unique way to improve your meetings and sharing top highlights with the company. need a little support defining the goals of the meetings and the communication taking place. are ready to invest in your company to improve the culture of the people and the company as a whole. if you need a little help capturing and synthesizing the details from your meetings. Culture Crush is here to support and it starts with these two amazing women led companies!
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