In this episode, host Michael Bernzweig talks with Trisha Daho, founder and CEO of Empowered, about how professional services firms can grow faster by treating people, culture, and leadership as strategic priorities. Trisha explains how culture impacts engagement, retention, and long‑term revenue, how Empowered uses assessments, people advisory, and fractional Chief People Officer roles to drive change, and why leadership development must focus on human skills like emotional intelligence, self‑reflection, and genuine care. She also describes her leadership ascension and intensive programs designed to prepare the next generation of partners and leaders.

In this episode:

• Why culture and people strategy are critical for 800% growth over a decade
• How to assess and address culture gaps without triggering defensiveness
• The role of fractional Chief People Officers in mid-market firms
• Practical steps to embed AI into organizational strategy effectively
• The importance of leadership alignment and honest performance evaluations
• Why employee engagement statistics reveal the urgency for cultural change
• How to build resilient leaders for hybrid, multi-generational workplaces
• The three-phase roadmap for AI adoption: from foundation to scaling
• Strategies for detecting early warning signs of cultural wobble
• Filling topic gaps with AI to enhance thought leadership

Timestamps:

• 00:00 - Introduction to Trisha Daho and her expertise in culture and leadership in professional services
• 01:24 - Trisha’s personal journey from Big Four to entrepreneurship
• 02:36 - Why neglecting culture results in 800% less growth
• 04:06 - Key learnings in transitioning from corporate to founder mindset
• 05:36 - Building honest, transparent culture assessments
• 06:53 - Common signs that culture, leadership, and people are wobbling
• 08:13 - What exactly do culture and people initiatives entail?
• 09:34 - Embedding culture into performance management and leadership development
• 12:40 - Implementing and scaling fractional Chief People Officer roles
• 16:00 - How leadership ascension programs accelerate talent development
• 20:40 - First steps for firms starting their culture improvement journey
• 21:44 - Strategic AI roadmap: from foundation to pilot, scale, embed
• 33:07 - Using honest culture assessments to surface issues
• 36:53 - Updating SEO and AEO strategies in the age of AI
• 38:23 - Pricing strategies based on capacity and scarcity
• 40:09 - Measuring success in fractional CPO engagements
• 41:51 - Practical three-phase AI implementation roadmap
• 44:08 - Identifying and filling content gaps with AI
• 45:36 - Final thoughts: invest in culture and leadership for sustainable growth

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In this episode, host Michael Bernzweig sits down with Noelle London, founder and CEO of Illoominus, to explore how HR teams can turn scattered people data into AI‑ready intelligence. Noelle explains why most mid‑market organizations rely on IT tickets and manual reports to answer basic workforce questions, and how messy, inconsistent data across dozens of HR systems blocks strategic decisions. She shares practical steps to improve data quality, connect the full employee journey, and use AI for self‑serve insights on tenure, turnover, and internal mobility so leaders can respond to change with confidence.

• 00:00 – Introduction to Noelle London and Illuminus’s mission to unify HR data
• 00:29 – The entrepreneurial journey of Noelle and founding Illuminus
• 01:23 – Challenges of disconnected HR systems and scattered data
• 02:39 – How entrepreneurship taught Noelle about creative problem solving
• 04:10 – The evolution of HR technology and the need for connected data
• 06:07 – Navigating societal and technological shifts impacting the workforce
• 08:02 – Common issues mid-market organizations face with HR data access
• 09:38 – The urgency of data foundation for AI readiness
• 11:20 – How Illuminus unifies employee journey data for strategic insights
• 12:18 – Power of AI in making quick, data-driven workforce decisions
• 13:18 – Enabling self-serve data access for HR teams
• 14:47 – Building a community of shared learnings for HR innovation
• 16:19 – Solving high turnover costs through integrated data analysis
• 17:48 – Encouraging organizations to connect core HR systems first
• 19:22 – Preparing data foundations for AI, analytics, and predictive modeling
• 20:49 – Key practices for normalizing and cleansing HR data
• 23:23 – How to prioritize growth levers for testing without a dedicated data team
• 24:16 – Conducting cost-effective A/B tests with limited traffic
• 26:39 – Moving from scattered data to trusted, action-oriented HR insights
• 28:24 – Using impactful storytelling to build trust with leadership
• 30:12 – Framework for testing new strategies efficiently and effectively
• 31:09 – Tools and resources for creating impactful experiment audits
• 33:29 – Initial steps for unifying data from multiple HR platforms
• 36:42 – Starting with core HR systems before expanding data integrations
• 38:32 – Cadence and documentation best practices for continuous testing
• 41:43 – Making sense of emerging workforce trends through metrics
• 45:17 – Running experiments with low traffic environments
• 48:08 – Final advice: fixing data foundations as a strategic priority for HR modernization

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In this episode, host Michael Bernzweig sits down with Chris Brown, partner and CTO at Wow Remote Teams, to unpack why hiring has quietly become one of the biggest growth bottlenecks for modern companies. Together, they explore how remote work truly changed access to talent, why nearshoring to Latin America helps solve time zone, culture, and skill gaps, and why cost efficiency should be the outcome rather than the sole strategy. You’ll hear which roles are best suited for nearshore teams, how to think about data and security across borders, and how expanding your talent radius can drive speed, continuity, and long-term retention across tech, operations, and support functions.

Key Topics:

• How nearshoring expands access to skilled talent in Latin America with cultural and time zone alignment.
• The primary bottleneck of hiring in fast-growing companies and how remote work alleviates it.
• Strategies for building high-performance remote teams, including onboarding, trust, and long-term retention.
• The impact of AI on workflows, automation, and evolving business models.
• Practical steps for transitioning to hybrid pricing models and cross-department collaboration.
• How remote work transforms leadership mindsets around talent acquisition and team integration.
• Tools and frameworks to assess workflow alignment and prevent technology-driven inefficiencies.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to nearshore talent and remote team scaling

01:23 - Chris Brown’s journey from CTO to staffing expert

02:39 - How Latin American talent outperforms domestic hires in cost and quality

04:45 - The transformation in client hiring processes through nearshoring

06:50 - Building trust and ensuring compliance in Latin American markets

07:18 - Effective client acquisition via word of mouth and inbound marketing

09:01 - The challenge of outbound sales and market warming strategies

10:36 - Leveraging referral partnerships for client growth

12:04 - How remote work reduces hiring bottlenecks and costs

13:54 - Quantifying the hiring bottleneck for founders and executives

15:12 - Remote work as a strategic advantage in global talent access

17:34 - Mindsets leaders must unlearn to embrace remote/nearshore hiring

19:39 - Comparing nearshore vs offshore models and operational benefits

21:57 - Real-world example of Latin American hires transforming team performance

23:56 - Long-term retention and cultural alignment in Latin America

25:28 - Cost efficiency versus quality and skill level improvements

27:00 - Practical considerations for security, data, and support roles

30:07 - Interactive Q&A highlights from the live event

31:52 - How AI influences business strategy and workflow friction

35:35 - Rethinking SaaS pricing amid variable LLM costs

40:07 - Reframing nearshore talent as a strategic lever, not just a cost cut

44:44 - Mapping cross-department workflows to support collaboration

47:36 - Managing business efficiency loops and resource fulcrums

49:15 - Onboarding practices for remote Latin American hires

51:25 - Balancing governance and flexibility in enterprise workflows

53:23 - Final insights: expand your talent pool, treat remote hiring as infrastructure

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Discover how organizational mindset, strategic reframing, and leveraging AI and ecosystems can unlock exponential growth. Loic Potjes shares his journey from corporate leadership to coaching CEOs worldwide, emphasizing the importance of thinking differently to thrive in disruption. Join host Michael Bernzweig as he explores how organizational mindset, strategic reframing, and leveraging AI and ecosystems can unlock exponential growth. Discover insights on transforming careers and business models to thrive in disruption.

Main Topics

• The journey of a global CEO turned coach and entrepreneur
• Shifting from traditional models to exponential growth frameworks
• The importance of rethinking business models with AI and technology
• Avoiding the "lipstick on a pig" trap: deep organizational change
• Building ecosystems and partnerships for sustainable scaling
• The Kodak paradox: doing more of the same with a twist leads to failure
• Practical steps to become an AI-ready, exponential organization

Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction: The nonlinear journey of founders and executives
01:16 - Loic Potjes’ background: From NGO turnaround in Africa to global CEO roles
02:05 - Scaling in South Africa: doubling business size annually for six years
02:28 - Reinventing the business model: shifting from manpower to tech
03:13 - Transition to advisory and coaching: lessons learned from corporate life
04:38 - Becoming a CEO coach: leveraging ADHD as a strength and working with global CEOs
05:36 - Leadership development: exponential principles for fast-growing companies
06:01 - Using AI for strategic diagnostics: transforming how CEOs operate
07:06 - Clarity, accountability, and the role of AI in scaling organizations
08:32 - Moving beyond AI hype: organizational readiness and strategic reframing
09:17 - Recognizing the hype: data management vs practical AI application
10:40 - What is an exponential organization? Key principles for rapid scaling
12:10 - The Kodak paradox: avoiding doing more of the same with a twist
13:13 - Reframing industry models: from guards to integrated security solutions
14:36 - Redefining core problems and business models with new technology lenses
16:08 - Competitive advantage: being systematically AI-enabled to lower costs and increase margins
17:17 - Assessing your organization’s core skills and strategic automation opportunities
18:55 - Navigating resistance to change: cultural and human challenges in transformation
20:07 - Building a clear, compelling market offer: focus on measurable value
21:27 - Pricing strategies in a blue ocean: from cost-based to value-based models
22:09 - The importance of ecosystems and partnerships: scaling outside the fortress
23:18 - Practical steps to leverage technology, redefine goals, and pilot solutions
24:06 - Final thoughts: Embracing change today for exponential growth tomorrow

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In this conversation, John Morley founder of ID for Hire and host Michael Bernzweig discuss the critical aspects of instructional design and training effectiveness. He emphasizes the importance of understanding learners' needs, the role of AI in training, and effective strategies such as chunking content and using informal tones in training materials. The discussion also highlights the significance of task-driven training and the benefits of micro learning for modern learners.

Takeaways

• ROI from training is seen in reduced costs and increased value.
• Training should focus on what learners need to know.
• AI can assist but requires human verification.
• Chunking content improves retention and understanding.
• Training should be informal and conversational.
• Task-driven training is essential for effective learning.
• Feature-driven training serves as a reference material.
• Micro learning caters to the fast-paced needs of learners.
• Effortful recall strengthens neural pathways for better memory.
• Understanding the learner's prior knowledge is crucial.

Sound Bites

• "Just show me what to do."
• "Data dumps don't work."
• "Trust, but verify."

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Instructional Design and ROI
• 02:59 The Importance of Understanding Learners
• 05:53 Effective Training Techniques and Strategies
• 08:54 Utilizing AI in Instructional Design
• 12:01 Micro Learning and Informal Training
• 15:03 Key Takeaways and Conclusion

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In this episode, host Michael Bernzweig and EA Clarke, founder of Pivot and Edge, explore a disruptive approach to recruitment that highlights how strong employer branding and authentic storytelling help attract the right candidates. He highlights the need for startups to communicate their unique stories effectively and leverage their networks for amplification. Key takeaways include capturing and sharing the company story, defining storytelling goals, and the importance of consistent messaging across the organization.

Takeaways

• EA Clarke emphasizes a marketing-first approach to recruitment.
• The traditional recruitment process often fails to connect candidates with company culture.
• Employer branding is crucial for attracting the right talent.
• Crafting a compelling company story is essential for effective recruitment.
• Amplifying the company story through social media can significantly increase reach.
• Gamifying the amplification process can enhance employee participation.
• Consistent messaging about the company story is vital in various settings.
• Founders should not hesitate to share their evolving stories.
• Defining clear goals for storytelling helps focus efforts.
• Sharing the company story is a continuous process that improves over time.

Sound Bites

• "Find your believers."
• "Your employer brand is your story."
• "Capture your story, share it."

Chapters

• 00:00 Disrupting Recruitment: A New Approach
• 02:01 The Importance of Employer Branding
• 06:08 Crafting and Communicating Your Story
• 12:53 Amplifying Your Message
• 13:52 Key Takeaways for Founders

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In this episode of Career Spotlight, Michael Bernzweig interviews Brianne Rush, founder of Independence Lab. They discuss Brianne's journey from magazine journalism to establishing a platform focused on emotional intelligence for young professionals. The conversation covers the importance of adaptability in career paths, the impact of AI on job opportunities, and practical tips for job interviews. Brianne emphasizes the value of curiosity, self-learning, and building relationships in both remote and in-office settings. The episode concludes with insights on choosing the right organization size and culture for personal growth.

Takeaways

• Brianne's journey highlights the importance of emotional intelligence in career advancement.
• Job interviews can be navigated successfully with self-regulation techniques.
• AI will not replace the need for human empathy and communication skills.
• Curiosity and self-learning are essential for early career professionals.
• It's okay to change career paths as interests and industries evolve.
• Building relationships is crucial, especially in remote work settings.
• Staying within one organization can lead to significant career growth.
• Preparing stories for interviews can make candidates more memorable.
• Understanding company culture is key to job satisfaction.
• Gaining skills before entrepreneurship is vital for success.

Sound Bites

• "It's okay to adapt and change."
• "You want to do what's right for your career."
• "Use your empathy muscle."

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Career Spotlight and Independence Lab
• 03:13 Brianne Rush's Journey and Emotional Intelligence
• 06:12 Navigating Job Interviews and Workplace Dynamics
• 09:09 Opportunities in the Age of AI
• 11:58 The Importance of Lifelong Learning
• 14:52 Career Paths and Industry Trends
• 18:03 Work Environment: Remote vs. In-Office
• 20:58 Building Relationships in a Remote Setting
• 23:54 Staying Within an Organization vs. Job Hopping
• 26:52 Tips for Successful Job Interviews
• 29:52 Choosing the Right Organization Size
• 32:47 Conclusion and Resources

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In this episode of Career Spotlight, host Michael Bernzweig interviews Hamada Zahawi, founder and CEO of Right Track Admissions. They discuss Hamada's journey from law to admissions consulting, the challenges students face in applying to universities, and the importance of planning and profile development. The conversation also covers economic factors affecting education, alternatives to traditional degrees, and maximizing the college experience through networking and personal growth. Hamada shares insights on current trends in admissions, advice for international students, and the significance of personal narratives in applications. The episode concludes with reflections on travel and personal growth.

Takeaways

• Hamada transitioned from law to admissions consulting after the 2008 economic crisis.
• Right Track Admissions helps students with weaker profiles gain admission to top schools.
• Telling an effective story can outweigh poor standardized test scores.
• Planning and profile development are crucial for students applying to universities.
• Economic conditions significantly impact job markets and education costs.
• Vocational training and micro-credentialing are becoming more valuable than traditional degrees.
• The SLASH approach helps maximize the college experience: Social, Leadership, Academics, Study Abroad, Health.
• Networking and relationships formed in college can be invaluable for future opportunities.
• Students should be resourceful in seeking financial aid and scholarships.
• International students should consider applying to a broader range of institutions.

Sound Bites

• "Finding your own personal path is valid."
• "Planning is the key to success."
• "You never know what you're gonna get."

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Career Spotlight and Guest Background
• 02:44 Hamada's Journey: From Law to Admissions Consulting
• 05:44 Challenges Students Face in University Applications
• 08:37 The Shift in Education: Alternatives to Traditional Degrees
• 11:36 The Importance of Skills and Adaptability in Education
• 14:26 Maximizing College Experience: The Slash Method
• 17:39 The Value of Relationships and Experiences in Education
• 23:48 Navigating College Financial Aid
• 28:34 Seizing Opportunities in Admissions
• 32:10 The Impact of International Students on Admissions
• 37:06 The Importance of Curiosity in Personal Growth

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