The Art of Consulting Podcast – Episode Transcript

Hosts: Andy Fry & Cat Lam Episode Topic: Non-Disclosure Agreements and the Power of Keeping Information Confidential

[00:00 – Intro Music]

Andy Fry & Cat Lam (together): Welcome to the Art of Consulting Podcast with Andy Fry and Cat Lam. We are seasoned IT consultants, CPAs, and professional-development connoisseurs. Each episode we bring you an inspiring message to help you discover that X-factor as a professional in your field so you can gain the success you know you deserve in your career and in your life.

[00:15]

Andy Fry: Hey everybody, today I want to talk about non-disclosure agreements and keeping information close to our chest.

One of the things that, as a consultant, you've either already signed or you will sign—especially if you're new to consulting—is a non-disclosure agreement, or what's commonly called an NDA.

It really is a confidentiality agreement that says you're not going to share information that is not already public with people who shouldn't have it. Publicly traded companies require this because if you have access to their financials, or you're in meetings where they're about to disclose material non-public information, you possess something valuable.

If you start talking to other people, sharing that privately, or—worse—publicly, you can be sued, fired, or face a whole range of consequences depending on the severity.

Most NDAs are signed purely for protection; you sign it, you agree not to share, and most of us never have to worry about it day-to-day. But the broader concept of confidentiality is absolutely critical in consulting—and, honestly, in our personal lives too.

[01:10] The number-one reason it matters? We're trying to prove we're trustworthy.

Trust is a huge thing for me. I even wrote a book called The Trust Paradigm (there are actually three books with that title, but mine's the one with Andy Fry on the cover). I wrote it because I wanted to figure out: What is trust? How do you build it? How do you measure it?

As consultants, we prove trustworthiness through integrity—making sure the information we hear isn't used for our own benefit.

"Our own benefit" can be financial (classic corporate espionage—yes, it happens at the corporate level too, not just governments). Or, more commonly, it's the ego boost of feeling important because we "know something" and get to tell it.

[02:05] I've always treated any confidentiality agreement as lifelong. I have clients I haven't worked with in years. The information I learned back then—probably all public by now—but there could still be context, reasons behind decisions, who said what about letting someone go or selling a division… I view that NDA as in perpetuity. I'm never going to talk about it.

I recommend everyone adopt that mindset.

I actually had a client bring me into a highly sensitive project with only a handful of people in the loop. They told me point-blank: "We're bringing you in because you've proven in the past you don't share things you hear." They still made me sign another NDA. I signed it and said, "Just so you know—when I sign this, I treat it as forever."

[03:00] Organizations can and do test for leaks. At high-clearance levels it's obvious, but even regular companies sometimes plant slightly different versions of the same information to see who's talking.

So ask yourself with every piece of information: Is this my story to tell?

I once had a family member share something very personal that was happening with my immediate family—me, my wife, and our two kids. It wasn't their story. I told them, "That wasn't yours to tell." It hurt because it showed a lack of boundary awareness.

[03:45 – Personal story – Calgary street encounter] I was walking in Calgary for a client, and a friend's wife comes out of an apartment building that definitely wasn't where they lived. Eyes got big, I nodded, kept walking. I spent the next week wondering, "Do I tell my friend?" A week later he called laughing: "Hey, I heard you ran into [wife's name]. She was visiting a friend who lives there and couldn't remember your name in the moment." We both laughed—she thought I kept walking because I suspected something, and I kept walking because I didn't want to accidentally say the wrong thing. Moral: We often don't have the full picture.

[04:40] As consultants we're paid for what we know. Having "extra" information can make us feel powerful, special, in the know. But watch high-performing executives in a room—they speak very little. Top performers are extremely discreet about what they share and with whom. That's the behavior we want to model.

[05:10 – Early-career story – drinks with another consultant] Over 25 years ago I was out for drinks. Another consultant bragged they'd just signed a big staff-augmentation deal with a health authority that was actually going to replace a bunch of internal employees. I had a close friend who worked there. I was torn—do I warn him?

A senior consultant gave me great advice:

1. You care about your friend—that's valid.
2. You don't actually know if the rumor is true or the full intent.
3. Even if you tell him, what do you expect him to do? Quit? Confront his boss? Live in paranoia waiting for the axe?

Sometimes "sharing because we care" just offloads worry onto someone else.

[06:10 – Practical tips for everyday confidentiality]

• Speakerphone etiquette: If you're on speaker and others can hear, announce who's in the room (or the car). I don't want to swear or share sensitive info if your 7-year-old (or anyone) is listening.
• Recorded meetings / Zoom / Teams: Once it's recorded or transcribed, you no longer control that file. Assume anything said can be forwarded.
• Sharing with spouse or significant other: It's normal to need to vent, but sanitize the details. Leave out names, specific identifiers, anything that could accidentally get repeated at the next dinner party.
• Doctor/therapist analogy: You wouldn't want your doctor or therapist going home and giving your spouse a play-by-play with your name attached. Treat client info the same way.

Assume you live in a small town where everyone knows everyone. That mindset keeps you safe.

[07:30 – Closing]

If you're new to consulting, this is one of the most important professional habits you can build. If you're seasoned, it's a friendly reminder.

Keeping information confidential when it should be is simply the right thing to do—and it will accelerate your career because people will trust you with bigger, more sensitive, and more lucrative engagements.

So keep being awesome, work hard, and have yourself a great week.

[08:00 – Outro Music]

Why We Should Assume Someone Is Always Recording

In this solo episode, Andy Fry reflects on how everyday behavior—inside and outside the workplace—shapes our personal brand and professional reputation. Through personal stories and relatable lessons, he reminds listeners that in today's world of smartphones and social media, every action could be on record.

Andy shares an eye-opening story about visiting a college track team whose coach insisted her athletes greet everyone politely because "you never know who you're talking to." That lesson sparked a deeper conversation about professionalism, reputation, and emotional control—especially when stress, anger, or frustration threaten to take over.

• Professionalism never turns off: Your personal and professional conduct are one and the same.

• Every interaction matters: Treat people kindly—you never know who's watching or recording.

• Control the triggers: Catch negative emotions early and reset before reacting.

• Grace and forgiveness: If you make a mistake, own it, apologize, and move forward.

• Stop glorifying others' failures: Resist the online culture of finding joy in others' missteps.

Andy closes with a reminder to lead by example, forgive quickly, and always put your best self forward—on and off camera.

In this thought-provoking episode of The Art of Consulting podcast, Andy discusses the "50-Minute Focus" technique. Throughout the conversation, he sheds light on critical lessons about identifying productivity pitfalls, the significance of adapting dynamic strategies, and leveraging unconventional approaches to foster successful personal and professional habits. From the transformation of time management techniques to the essential role of prioritizing tasks, Andy offers a treasure trove of insights and practical guidance for consultants seeking to excel in their personal and professional lives.

Episode Summary:

• Introduction and Reflections from 2020 (00:06 - 00:44): The episode begins with a reflection on previous discussions from 2020 and the changes brought on by COVID-19.
  
  

• The Impact of Distractions (00:44 - 01:18): The speaker highlights the constant distraction posed by social media and smartphones, and their effect on productivity.
  
  

• Increased Distractions Over Time (01:18 - 02:00): A discussion on how distractions have become more pervasive over time, despite advancements in app efficiency.
  
  

• Understanding "Coffee is for Closers" (02:01 - 02:34): The speaker explains the phrase "coffee is for closers" employed as a motivational tool in sales.
  
  

• Strategies for Maintaining Productivity (02:34 - 03:15): The speaker shares personal strategies for maintaining productivity, such as task lists and prioritization.
  
  

• The Importance of a Task List (03:15 - 03:50): Emphasizes the role of task lists in proactive work and productivity.
  
  

• Approach to Task Prioritization (03:50 - 04:23): The speaker shares his approach to task prioritization, considering due dates and personal satisfaction.
  
  

• Evaluating and Prioritizing Tasks (04:24 - 04:53): Further explanation on task evaluation and prioritization.
  
  

• Considering Personal Satisfaction in Task Prioritization (04:53 - 05:29): The speaker advises prioritizing tasks that bring personal satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment.
  
  

• Interdependencies in Task Prioritization (05:29 - 06:01): The speaker discusses the role of interdependencies when prioritizing tasks within a team.
  
  

• The Importance of Task Prioritization (06:02 - 06:31): A reiteration of the importance of prioritizing tasks for a productive day.
  
  

• Time Boxing Tasks (06:32 - 07:17): The speaker introduces the concept of time boxing tasks to manage workload and time effectively.
  
  

• Task List Preparation for the Next Day (07:18 - 07:50): Discusses the strategy of preparing a task list for the next day the night before.
  
  

• Concept of Time Boxing (07:51 - 08:29): The speaker discusses the concept of time boxing, a productivity strategy.
  
  

• Benefits of Time Boxing (08:31 - 09:06): Emphasizes the benefits of time boxing in managing tasks and time.
  
  

• Starting With Difficult Tasks (09:07 - 09:43): The speaker advises starting with the most difficult tasks to build momentum and ease into the day.
  
  

• Benefits of Time Boxing (09:44 - 10:17): The benefits of time boxing, particularly in managing unexpected schedule changes, are discussed.
  
  

• Reiterating Importance of Prioritization and Time Boxing (10:17 - 10:52): The speaker reiterates the importance of task prioritization and time boxing.
  
  

• Rewarding Oneself Upon Task Completion (10:53 - 11:37): The speaker emphasizes the importance of rewarding oneself after completing tasks.
  
  

• Tackling Difficult Tasks First (11:37 - 12:22): Discusses the strategy of tackling difficult tasks first to build momentum and reduce stress.
  
  

• Importance of Rewarding Oneself (12:23 - 13:02): A reiteration on the importance of self-reward after task completion.
  
  

• 50-Minute Increments for Larger Tasks (13:02 - 13:37): The speaker shares his strategy of working in 50-minute increments for larger tasks.
  
  

• Benefits of the Speaker's Approach (13:37 - 14:16): Discussion on the personal benefits of the speaker's approach, including better production and momentum.
  
  

• Risk of Burnout (14:18 - 14:55): Highlights the risk of burnout if one does not reward themselves and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
  
  

• Early Requests for Collaboration (14:56 - 15:28): The speaker discusses the importance of initiating collaborative requests early in the day.
  
  

• 50-Minute Increments for Larger Tasks (15:30 - 16:16): Reiteration of the strategy of breaking up larger tasks into 50-minute increments.
  
  

• Benefits of the Speaker's Strategies (16:17 - 16:58): The speaker emphasizes the benefits of his strategies, including increased productivity and improved personal life.
  
  

• Early Requests for Collaboration (16:59 - 17:28): A reiteration of the importance of sending tasks or requests to colleagues early in the day.
  
  

• Nightly To-Do List Preparation (17:29 - 18:07): The speaker recommends preparing a to-do list the night before for a productive start to the day.
  
  

• Early Morning Collaboration Requests (18:08 - 18:40): Discusses the benefits of sending collaborative requests first thing in the morning.
  
  

• 50-Minute Increment Time Boxing (18:40 - 19:11): The speaker re-emphasizes the concept of time boxing tasks into 50-minute increments.
  
  

• Benefits of the Speaker's Strategies (19:12 - 19:45): Reiterates the benefits of the speaker's strategies, including better productivity and momentum.
  
  

• Benefits of Task Management Strategies (19:46 - 20:23): The speaker reiterates the benefits of his task management strategies, including better productivity and momentum.
  
  

• Using 50-Minute Increments for Studying (20:23 - 21:04): Shares personal experience of using the 50-minute increment approach while studying for a certification.
  
  

• Importance of Rewarding Oneself (21:05 - 21:39): Reiterates the importance of rewarding oneself after completing tasks.
  
  

• Maintaining Momentum and Avoiding Burnout (21:40 - 22:47): Emphasizes the importance of maintaining momentum and taking adequate breaks to avoid burnout.
  
  

• Benefits of the Speaker's Strategies (22:47 - 23:32): The speaker discusses how his strategies have helped him stay productive and manage his workload.
  
  

• Benefits of the Speaker's Approach (23:32 - 24:06): The speaker emphasizes the benefits of his approach, including better productivity and momentum.
  
  

• Benefits of the Speaker's Approach (24:07 - 24:43): Reiterates the benefits of the speaker's approach, including better productivity and momentum.
  
  

• Reflection on Strategies for a Productive Week (24:44 - 25:29): The speaker reflects on how his strategies have contributed to his productivity and satisfaction during the week.
  
  

• Conclusion and Look Ahead (25:29 - 25:51): The speaker concludes the episode by encouraging listeners to implement his strategies and looks forward to future discussions.
  
  

Episode Highlights:

• (00:06 - 00:44): The speaker reflects on changes brought on by COVID-19.

• (00:44 - 01:18): The speaker discusses the impact of social media and smartphones on productivity.

• (02:01 - 02:34): An explanation of the motivational phrase "coffee is for closers" is provided.

• (02:34 - 03:15): The speaker shares his strategies for maintaining productivity, such as task lists and prioritization.

• (03:50 - 04:23): The speaker's approach to task prioritization based on due dates and personal satisfaction is discussed.

• (04:53 - 05:29): The importance of personal satisfaction in task prioritization is highlighted.

• (06:32 - 07:17): The speaker introduces time boxing as a strategy to manage workload and time.

• (07:18 - 07:50): The speaker emphasizes the importance of preparing a task list for the next day.

• (08:31 - 09:06): The benefits of time boxing in managing tasks and time are discussed.

• (10:53 - 11:37): The speaker emphasizes the importance of rewarding oneself after task completion.

• (13:02 - 13:37): The speaker shares his strategy of breaking up larger tasks into 50-minute increments.

• (14:18 - 14:55): The speaker highlights the risk of burnout if one does not reward themselves and maintain a work-life balance.

• (14:56 - 15:28): The importance of initiating collaborative requests early in the day is discussed.

• (16:17 - 16:58): The speaker emphasizes the benefits of his strategies, including better productivity.

• (17:29 - 18:07): The speaker recommends preparing a to-do list the night before to kickstart a productive day.

• (19:46 - 20:23): The speaker reiterates the benefits of his task management strategies.

• (20:23 - 21:04): The speaker shares his experience of using the 50-minute increment approach for studying.

• (21:40 - 22:47): The importance of maintaining momentum and taking breaks to avoid burnout is emphasized.

• (24:44 - 25:29): The speaker reflects on how his strategies have contributed to a productive week.

• (25:29 - 25:51): The speaker concludes the episode by encouraging listeners to implement his strategies.

Quotes: 

"If we only operate our lives in a world where I help you, and the only help I get is from you, then I'm pretty dependent on you"

"I just really encourage you to cooperate with others as best you can and find opportunities to cooperate" 

Show Notes: 

(00:00) Podcast Intro 

(00:42)  If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign Up For A Complimentary Course at https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values   

(01:20) How to cooperate with other individuals 

(03:07) Five ways that cooperators gain an edge 

(09:17) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailer

"I don't think survival is a purpose, I think survival is a necessity" 

"Formal education is an important part. But we need to live with some level of skill that the marketplace in the world wants, there are people who have developed those skills in other ways. It could be through experience. It could be through other methods of learning."

"When you're in a situation to have to, you really have no other choice, but to go and make it work and focus on it."

"A self-inflicted need to create better versions of ourselves. This is the purpose of goals, right? A goal isn't just to write it down and say it's something that I hope to get. We're trying to create a have to for that goal. And it creates a bit at the end when we achieve that it creates a better version of ourselves"

Show Notes: 

(00:00) Podcast Intro 

(00:42)  If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign Up For A Complimentary Course at https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:21) How his family ended up in Canada 

(6:11) Two things why his parents wasn't freaking out or stressed out 

(07:43) How it is unique to each person 

(09:30) Purpose of goals 

(10:45) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailer

In this episode, Andy shared the benefit of doing things you don't usually do or things the first time. Listen on now and you will learn as he expounds on what it does to you personally and how it fosters growth and development not only to your skills but your personal growth as well.

Quotes:

"Once You Get Through To Do That Task, Even Though It's Very Straightforward For Some People, You Feel Good About Yourself, You Learn One More Thing. It's Something That Builds On Our Confidence In Ourselves."

"Have Compassion Towards Others On The Things That You Do Every Day Or The Things That You Immerse Yourself In And Just Know That People Aren't Thinking About It All The Time."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro 

(00:27) If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:19) Changing Tires For The First Time

(03:58) Trying Out Things The First Time

(06:03) Doing More Of The Things That You Don't Usually Do And Learning It

(07:11) Learning To Be More Understanding And Compassionate With Others

(09:23) Do Something New That Brings New Experiences

(10:40) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailer

In this episode, Andy shared the significance of making that initial call. He talked about Alex Anthopoulos of Atlanta Braves and how making that initial call set his path to the success he has now. Andy also gave tips on how to make that first call effective.

So, tune in now and be encouraged to take that first step towards your goal.

Quotes:

"We Have To Continue To Make Those Calls."

"One Of The Things That Prevent People From Really Achieving Great Success Is That They Don't Ask, They Don't Make That Initial Call."

"Make That Initial First Call And Keep Making That Initial First Call."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro 

(00:27) If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:19) Alex Anthopoulos Of Atlanta Braves

(05:59) Starting Somewhere

(07:36) You Have To Make That Initial Call

(08:26) It Gets Easier Each Time You Do It

(09:11) Tips In Making The Initial Call

(11:50) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailer

In this episode, we have Andy and Cat share with us how the market is opening up widely for consulting and the significance of connecting and building your network. You will also learn practical ways on how to connect and build relationships that will develop a healthy network that leads to growth and opportunities.

So, click the play button and listen in now!

Quotes:

"Giving People Endorsements Is Probably One Of The Most Valuable Things That You Can Do On Linkedin."

"My Recommendation To Anybody Right Now Is To Build A Relationship With A Recruiter."

"The Best Way To Build A Relationship With Somebody Is To Help Them Win."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro 

(00:27) If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:18) The Market Opening Up Widely For Consulting

(04:33) Opportunities Brought By The Chain Of Connections

(11:26) Networking As A Big Part Of Consulting

(15:43) The Helper Gets Helped

(16:30) Build A Relationship With A Recruiter

(18:53) We're All In This Together

(20:20) Start Connecting

(21:29) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailer

In this episode, we have a special guest, Serah Blackstone-Fredericks. Serah is the CEO and Founder of Books In Harmony. She is a bookkeeper and an artist as well. You will hear about how Serah transitioned from art to bookkeeping and now, doing both! 

Serah shares the Challenges she encountered in consulting and how she overcame them. She also shares excellent insights about dealing with business relationships and being more open to your artistic side.

Tune in now and enjoy this insightful conversation.

Quotes:

"There Needs To Be A Time Where We Start To Accept That There Is Limited Time. And There's Actually A Lot You Can Do With That Limited Time. But It's About Decision-Making."

"I Think It Can Get Blurred In Business, That It Is A Relationship And Things Should Be Out Of Kindness. You Should Still Be Treated With Kindness And Respect."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro 

(00:27) If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:19) Introduction Of Serah Blackstone-Fredericks And The Significance Of Having A Bookkeeper

(07:27) It's Better Off Knowing That Not

(09:15) Serah's Transition From Art To Bookkeeping

(12:26) Life's Too Short To Not Try

(16:46) Challenges In Consulting Encountered And How Serah Overcame It

(20:22) Understanding Interdependence In Business Relationships

(25:16) Being Honest With Ourselves And Showing Up Authenticity

(27:25) Being More Structured In Bookkeeping, But More Creative On Music

(33:22) Ideas Flow, Get Ourselves Tap Into It

(37:25) Surrounding Yourself With People Who Are More Open To New Ideas

(39:09) There's No One Size That Fits All

(40:44) You Can Reach Out To Serah At https://www.booksinharmony.com/ 

(41:37) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailer

In this episode, Andy shares valuable insight about what it truly means to accept yourself and gave steps on how to become more empathetic with yourself. As you tune in now, make sure to take down notes and apply these practical strategies that will impact your journey in becoming your best version.

Quotes:

"We All Have Different Dialogue Going On Our Heads, It's Our Responsibility To Pick Which One We Listen To."

"Realize That Acceptance Is Not Resignation."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:19) Learning How To Accept Yourself, To Become More Empathetic

(02:25) Set An Intention Of Accepting Yourself

(03:17) Celebrate Your Strengths

(04:28) Consider The People Around You And Create A Support System

(06:18) Forgive Yourself And Silence The Inner Critics

(08:11) Grieve The Loss Of Unrealized Dreams And Perform Charitable Acts

(10:00) Realize That Acceptance Is Not Resignation And Speak To Your Higher Self

(11:32) Be Kind To Yourself And Act As If You Already Have It

(14:13) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailer

In this episode, we have Andy share with us three ways of measuring reliability. This will help you identify opportunities and may also introduce more efficient solutions within the organizations. Gain helpful insights on this as you listen in now.

Quotes:

"Being Able To Do Something, And Doing It Are Two Different Things."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:19) Reliability Is A Component Of Trust

(02:53) The Reliability Of The Information That We're Getting

(03:45)Ways of Measuring Reliability - Verifying And Looking At Reliable Information Across Different Individuals

(07:12) Asking The Same Question Overtime

(09:11) Across Items

(12:49) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailer

In this episode, Andy is with Alexis Haselberger who is a productivity expert in Alexis Haselberger Coaching and Consulting. They talked about how productivity is part of our life as human beings and it is important to look into how we can maximize our time and focus especially in a work from home, as well as a hybrid work environment set up.

Tune in now and gain brilliant tips on how to be more productive and less stressed in working from home or transitioning to a hybrid workplace.  

Quotes:

"We have a limited capacity. So where do we direct it?" - Alexis Haselberger

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:19) Greetings and Introduction of Alexis Haselberger - a productivity expert

(03:03) Productivity is part of life as a human being

(05:40) Being intentional of how we re-enter the world coming from the pandemic 

(09:51) The feeling of having lesser things to do 

(11:57) Working in a hybrid work environment

(18:02) Make sure to set your work hour boundaries especially in a work-from-home setup

(29:49) Managing the fragmented attention and deciding on your priorities

(34:01) Being more intentional and direct in how we communicate

(39:38) Facing the social challenges

(40:55) Suggestions on how to be more productive and less stressed in working from home or transitioning to a hybrid workplace setup

(46:39) There are things that are really beyond our control

(48:05) You can reach out to Alexis Haselberger on https://www.alexishaselberger.com/   

() Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, Andy shares how complacency affects our performance and how it gets into us. You will learn about tips you can do when you see yourself getting into the complacency state and how to keep yourself from heading towards it.

Listen in now and learn all these helpful tips and insights.

Quotes:

"It's Also Very Important To Know That We Don't Know Everything And That Things Change."

"One Of The Things That Complacency Ends Up Doing Is That Complacency Puts Us In A Position That We Think We Can Deviate From The Routine That Got Us There."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:19) Going Out At Night 

(06:02) Being Able To Look Around And See Things That Are A Threat To Us

(07:14) Different Forms The Threat Can Come To Us

(08:35) Familiraity And Complacency

(11:11) What You Can Do When You Find Yourself Being Complacent  

(11:55) Complacency Comes From Contentment

(12:41) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailer

Andy shares his thoughts on how to keep communication on track. 

In this episode, we have Andy talk about how to recognize small opportunities and use them wisely. Tune in now and you will learn how to look at it and see its value to help you decide how to use it to your advantage.

Quotes:

"What we do with these opportunities what sets us apart."

 "If we define the found resources being something earned, such as gaining it through work, or through some form of a sacrifice, we're probably likely to use it wisely."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:19) Misuse of small opportunities or resources

(04:30) Using the opportunities for your advantage

(06:26) Looking at the opportunities as something that's earned

(07:24) Being more productive

(08:44) Recognizing and respecting small opportunities

(09:28) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailer

In this episode, Andy shares an insight he learned from Archie Comic Books. He talks about how we develop the stories in between the pictures to get to the next picture and eventually finishing the whole story of the comic book. He compares that to authoring our own story between the goals we want to achieve and being intentional about it.

Listen in now and gain full insight into this concept.

Quotes:

"What I've Found Is That The Goals That Cause Disappointment Are Meant Very Little To Me, Was A Result Of Me Not Being Very Intentional About Developing My Story."

"If We Write Our Script Properly, And We Are Very Focused On What We Are Trying To Build From Our Two Points Of Our Goals. By Default, We Are Leaving Things Out."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:19) Comic Book Stories And Setting Goals

(03:01) Being The Author Of The Story In Between The Pictures And Being Intentional About It

(04:02) Knowing How To Leave Things Out To Make Sure To Get To The Next Picture

(06:08) Being Focused On What You're Trying To Build  

(06:58) Author The Story In Between The Pictures (Goals)    

(08:00) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, Andy talks about properly managing your time and space in your work to ensure success. He shares tips and examples on how to do this and keep your time and space appropriately intended to the work ahead and greatly help you succeed.

Tune in now and learn this principle that will surely contribute to enhancing the quality of your service.

Quotes:

"Choosing One Thought Over Another Changes The Situation Drastically."

"Properly Managing Our Mental Space Is The Ability To Control The Internal Dialogue From The External Events. Which Result In An Appropriate Response."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:19) Managing Time And Space In A Hockey Game Relating To Consulting/Profession

(02:14) Measuring Time Is Critical To Their Success

(03:37) Space Is The Operating Zone Where You Work

(09:09) Properly Managing Your Mental Space And Keeping It Clean And Ready For The Work Ahead

(10:03) Having The Mental Dialogue To Choose The Proper Response      

(10:59) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, Andy talks about the two things that will facilitate your growth in your personal and professional development, accountability and responsibility. You will learn how to allow yourself to be more accountable, and execute your responsibilities.      

Tune in now and learn about these and more!      

Quotes:

"The Individuals Are Accountable To Themselves. I Believe That Individuals Are Obligated To Do What's Right For Themselves."

"This is about saying no to the things that don't serve you and saying yes to the things that do serve you."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:19) Talking About Mark Cuban In "Shark Tank"

(02:59) Being Direct Yet Still Respectful

(04:03) Who Are You Accountable To?

(05:10) Two Main Things That Drive Accountability

(06:16) We Have Responsibilities

(07:54) Meeting Our Objectives Through Accountability And Responsibility

(10:10) Allowing Yourself To Be More Accountable And Execute Your Responsibilities

(11:11) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, Andy shares insights about being in the answer business and being in the question business. As a consultant, there are traits that are beneficial as they build up your soft skills as well as your relationship with clients.

Listen in now and learn about these traits that will surely benefit you as you grow your career.                

Quotes:

"What Consulting Gave Me Was The Opportunity To Have An Answer."

"What I Realized Was The Best Consultants Were In The Question Business."

"The Purpose Of Being In The Question Business Is Not To Allow The Consultant To Have A Better Answer. The Purpose Is To Allow The Client To Get A Better Answer."

"Being In The Answer Business Is Good, But Being In The Question Business Is Great."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:19) What's Great With Consulting

(05:12) Being In The Answer Business

(06:37) Asking A Lot Of Questions

(07:54) Consultants Are In The Question Business

(08:34) Being Inquisitive As A Consultant

(10:13) Can't Be In The Ego Business

(11:27) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, we have Andy speak about how confusion and delay may hurt businesses. He points out that these are part of life and businesses because of the constant change but we can definitely minimize its impact and experience the best results.

Listen in now and learn how to minimize the impact of confusion and delay.

Quotes:

"Confusion and delay hurt business."

"Confusion And Delay Happens Because We Let Negatives Live, Where There Should Be Positives."

"We Don't Actually Remove Those Negatives, We Must Add Positives In Their Place."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:19) Confusion And Delay Hurt Businesses

(04:42) What Causes Confusion And Delay

(06:10) Filling The Lack With Positive Inputs   

(07:05) Life And Business Is Constantly Changing And Confusion And Delay Is Part Of It

(08:25) Minimizing The Impact Of Confusion And Delay 

(09:12) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, Kat and Andy talk about the blooming opportunities today, especially in the consulting industry. They encourage us to take it and make the most out of it as they share tips on how to seize these opportunities and get the best things that are there for you to grab ahold of.

Jump right into this conversation now and learn these tips to take advantage of opportunities in front of you!

Quotes:

"It Was Always The Best Time But I Think That There's More Abundance In Opportunity Now Than Ever Before."

"When We See These Opportunities, Take It, But Then Do Every Single Thing You Can, To Develop What You Can For Your Future."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:18) The Lack Of Workers

(04:01) Taking Advantage Of The Situation's Opportunity

(08:10) Develop What You Can For Your Future

(10:41) A Difference In Mindset

(16:05) Becoming More Creative To The Opportunity

(18:15) Top Three Things You Can Do To Take Advantage Of The Opportunity 

(19:55) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, Andy talks about how regret can shape us and lead us on to different directions in life. He shares how we can take your experiences and regrets and maximize the learnings that you can get out of it and continue to grow and thrive.

Tune in now and learn about the two main forms and regrets and how to get the most out of your experiences.

Quotes:

"I Think That Regrets Teach Us A Tremendous Amount. And I Think It's Something That It Provides Us Learning Opportunities That We Can Carry Into The Future."

"There Are Many Learning Opportunities That Generate Experience, And That Experience Can Create Wisdom."

"Regret Can't Be Eliminated But It Is An Incredible Learning Tool That Is Built Into Human Beings For The Purpose Of Learning."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:19) The Regrets Of Not Being A Good Teammate

(04:03) Learning A Lot From Regrets

(05:10) Two Main Forms Of Regrets

(06:05) Shame Could Come In Different Forms

(06:48) Minimizing The Amount Of Shame We Experience

(08:07) Maximizing Our Learning

(09:27) Forgive Yourself, Move On, And Learn Quick

(10:14) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, we have Andy share about how having a level of being naive can challenge an arrogance of truths and break perceived limitations that keep us from reaching higher levels.

Let's join Andy and listen in now, and learn how 'naivete' can usher breakthroughs in your career and in your life. 

Quotes:

"Going In And Accomplishing Things, Sometimes, We Need To Enter With A Level Of Being Naive Because The Constraint Of 'i Can't' Is Also Driven From A Perceived Knowledge Of Facts That Claim To The Perception Of An Arrogance Of Truths."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:19) "The Titans That Built America"

(02:32) Faith In One's Self And Being Naive 

(03:32) Seeing All The Reasons Why Something Can't Be Done

(04:04) An Arrogance Of Truths

(05:12) Two Categories Of False Truths

(06:22) Is It True That It Can't Be Done?

(07:05) Being Done Through Humility And Curiosity

(08:25) Dumb Like A Fox

(09:31) Challenging The Arrogance Of Truths 

(10:20) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, Andy shares a dream he had and expounds on the essence of learning from failure. Failure provides an emotionally intense learning opportunity to improve and he talks about how we can get into the learning mindset when we face failure.

Listen and learn more about it now!

Quotes:

"Success Comes From Learning And Not Just Focusing On Results."

"The Purpose Of Measuring Results Is To Learn And To Improve."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:19) Focusing on learning

(02:51) Results are not the lesson

(05:12) When failure introduces the learning

(06:28) You are not the failure, the event is

(07:20) The purpose of measuring results

(09:47) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode Andy discusses steps you can take to deal with and preprare for potential Geo Political events. 

In this episode, you will understand the importance of taking responsibility in different life and professional situations and how success depends on the act of figuring things out to make it work for the best.

Click play now and listen to this insightful message.

Quotes:

"Figuring Things Out Only Happens When A Person Takes Full Responsibility."

"It Is Based On The Responsibility We Take Today To Figure Out The Solutions To The Problems That We Have."

"Success Or Even Failure Is Really Dependent On Being Responsible For Our Decisions, And Our Actions, And Our Thoughts."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:19) The Chimney Fire Experience

(05;24) Just Go Figure It Out

(07:06) Taking Full Responsibility For Figuring It Out

(09:54) Success Or Failure Depends On How We Take Responsibility For Given Situations 

(10:59) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, Andy encourages us to understand what winning really means. Looking into individual sports and identify the principle that we can apply in life and in our profession so that we can truly step into that place of success.

Tune in now and learn the principles that lead you to win in business and in life! 

Quotes:

"If You Try, You Win"

"Trying Means Coming Prepared, Doing Your Best, And Learning So That Whatever Didn't Work This Time, We Try A Little Bit Better The Next Time."

"Real Winners Want To Be In The Arena And Not Out In The Parking Lot."

"Success Is Actually The Habit And The Practice Of Not Quitting."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:19) Track And Field

(02:44) Winning Is Not Normal

(05:35) If You Try, You Win

(07:58) Real Winners Want To Be In The Arena

(08:44) Learning The Art Of Not Quitting

(10:39) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, Andy starts out by talking about a movie where a lone survivor Navy SEAL in Afghanistan was given help, protection, and sanctuary by the locals. He compares it with how we should protect our creative ideas and thoughts from our own self-criticism. 

Listen in now and learn how to provide a safe sanctuary for your good ideas and thoughts and protect your creativity from your own ego.

Quotes:

"We're Trying To Protect Ourselves From That Outside Criticism, But We Want To Make Sure That We Don't Kill Off And Suffocate Really Good Ideas Because Of That Fear."

"Some Of The Craziest Ideas You'll Hear Are Sometimes The Most Brilliant When You Just Let It Sit And Simmer."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:19) Giving Your Thoughts Sanctuary

(02:51) Not All Thoughts Are Valid And Good

(05:31) Protecting The Ego By Self-criticism

(06:24) How To Provide My Ideas A Sanctuary 

(08:41) Protecting Your Thoughts And Creativity

(10:00) Some Of The Craziest Ideas Are Sometimes The Most Brilliant

(11:05) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, we have Cat and Andy talk about how and why people tend to be talking more to technology rather than to the person. In this conversation, you will understand servant leadership and become more aware of putting effort into building a connection with the people that will benefit from your idea or knowledge.

So, listen in now as you continue to develop your soft skills and flourish in your profession and in life! 

Quotes:

"Whether Or Not You're Giving Advice, Or Whether Or Not You're Putting In A System, Or Whether Or Not You Are Just Consulting In General Or Being That Trusted Adviser, The Recipient Of This Information, Or The Entity That Will Benefit From Your Expertise Is Going To Be Ultimately A Human."

"The First Thing You Have To Do Is You Have To Understand Who You're Talking To."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:18) Quick catch up with Andy and Cat

(02:01) Hiding behind labels

(04:09) Why it's easier to talk about inanimate things vs. the impact on humans

(07:45) What is the missing link?

(09:30) Building connection with the people

(11:39) Understanding who you're talking to

(17:03) Servant leadership

(19:52) Looking for opportunities to improve something and making people understand the benefits that they're getting

(21:06) Webinar: How to deliver great ERP training and avoid the traps that most organizations fall into 

(26:15) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, you will learn what passion means and what it leads you to do. Andy shares his take on the statement, "If You Find Your Passion, You'll Never Work A Day In Your Life." He also explains how passion truly looks likes.

So, tune in now and let this be a time of reflection on the things that deeply drive you to success.

Quotes:

"Loving What You Do Doesn't Mean It's Not Work, And It Doesn't Mean That You Won't Find Challenges, And It Won't Frustrate You, And You Won't Be Challenged By It."

"If You Are Passionate About Something, It Is A Generation Of Energy To Go And Do That Thing."

"Passion Isn't An Invitation To Ease. It's An Invitation To Greatness."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:19) "If You Find Your Passion, You'll Never Work A Day In Your Life." - Is This True?

(02:14) A Story About Kobe Bryant

(03:18) What Passion Means

(04:48) We're Supposed To Find Our Passion

(05:40) Passion = Love

(06:29) An Invitation To Greatness 

(06:57) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, Andy shares his insight on the obstacles that you need to be ready to face daily in order to earn the opportunities you deserve. He uses the Laws of Physics to illustrate these types of obstacles to help you understand and make a plan to succeed over them.

So, listen in now!

Quotes:

"My Biggest Competition Is Myself, And I Have To Learn, And Every Single Day, I Have To Execute This As Earning It By Fighting The Obstacles That Are In Front Of Me."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27)  If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:19) A Story On The Stanley Cup Playoffs Between The Edmonton Oilers And The New York Islanders  

(03:10) Acting On Your Commitment To Self-development Right Away

(04:11) Having To Constantly Earn The Opportunities   

(04:42) The Law Of Physics As The Obstacles - Inertia, Friction, Gravity

(06:59) The Battle Is Daily - Have A Set Of Goals/Tasks To Accomplish     

(08:07) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, Cat and Andy talk about the essence of knowing what truly fulfills you. You will understand the difference between the Science of Achievement and the Art of Fulfillment and learn things that you can do to help you figure out what it is that makes your soul sing.

Hit the play button now and join this insightful conversation!

Quotes:

"The Art Of Fulfillment Is Different For Everyone… But It's Important To Have To Understand What Your Definition Of The Art Of Fulfillment Is."

"It's Important Not To Measure Your Own Fulfillment, Or Define Your Own Fulfillment Based On Somebody Else's Spectrum Or What We're Supposed To Find Attractive."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27)  If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:18) The Science Of Achievement Vs. The Art Of Fulfillment

(05:51) Making Sure To Know What Fulfills You Vs. What You Want To Achieve

(10:45) Respecting That It's Going To Be Different For Everyone

(16:45) Being Exposed To Different Things To Be Able To Know What You Want

(19:30) The Difference Between Being Content And Doing Something That Sings To Your Soul

(25:24) Keeping Your Eye On The Prize

(28:50) The Value Of Truly Knowing What Fulfills You

(29:34) Being Able To Adjust When There Are Pitfalls

(31:56) Define Your Art Of Fulfillment          

(32:52) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, Andy sheds light on a perspective that will propel us to take on the work needed to get the things that we want for our career and our life. Know that the goals worth achieving require hard work and effort, nevertheless, they are worth doing!

Listen in and learn helpful tips as you take the steps in reaching that dream.

Quotes:

"The Idea That Things Are Just Going To Be Easy, And Things Are Not Going To Take Effort, And They're Not Going To Be Hard, And We're Not Going To Hit Obstacles, And We're Not Going To Have Problems Is Not Accurate."

"You Want Them To Be Difficult Because That's Called Earning Things."

"The Stuff That Takes That Effort Is Worth Doing, It's The Stuff That's Rewarding."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27)  If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:19) You want things to be hard

(02:50) The fact that hings are hard  

(03:10) Finding advice and help but know that things are not going to be easy

(03:55) Research first and make a plan to go do it

(04:18) You're going to start at the bottom

(05:22) Earning things take work and effort

(06:11) Real rewards come on the other side of that effort    

(06:53) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, Andy shares the lessons that playing golf taught him. You will learn about the essence of having an approach to life and what to do when misfortunes happen. 

Tune in now and enhance your soft skills as you find that approach that works for you!

Quotes:

"It Was About Teaching The Technical Steps, But Understanding Why Those Tactical Steps Were Necessary."

"It's Really Important To Understand That Misfortune Is Going To Happen."

"We Can't Eliminate Them [Misfortunes], All We Can Do Is Find That Approach That Works And Understand The Key Feedback Points Of That Approach."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27)  If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:29) The First Time I Played Golf

(02:19) The Concept Of Having An Approach

(03:35) Recognizing The Feedback When Results Are Not As Expected

(04:21) Things That Almost Always Happened When Things Go Off Track 

(05:26) Forcing The Result That You're Looking For

(06:21) It's Not To Eliminate Misfortune 

(07:59) Find Approaches And Processes That Work

(08:18) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, Andy talks about a better question to ask yourself that will help you in your life and career journey now. It is great to take this time and reflect on the things that you need to keep, change, or improve. 

So, listen in now and try out Andy's suggestions and experience its benefits.

Quotes:

"I Realize Is That I Am Who I Am Today Because Of The Decisions That That 25-year-old Self."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27)  If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At https://theconsultingplaybook.com/values 

(01:29) Advising Your 25-year-old Self

(02:01) Would Your 25-year-old Self Listen?

(03:26) The Better Question

(03:53) What Would Your 25-year-old Self Advise You?

(05:27) The Path I Had To Take

(05:58) You Can Travel To The Future

(06:37) Asking Yourself Today  

(07:19) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this compelling episode of The Art of Consulting podcast, Stephanie Forbes brings her expertise to the table, discussing the prevalent and often sophisticated issue of corporate fraud and cybersecurity. Throughout the conversation, we navigate the different ways in which fraud can occur within an organization, the impacts it can have, and the steps that can be taken to prevent it. From harrowing stories of payroll fraud to the intricacies of implementing governance models, Stephanie provides actionable insights to secure the financial and informational assets of companies.

Episode Summary:

• [00:00-01:05] Introduction: Hosts recap previous discussions and introduce today's focus on how funds may be fraudulently siphoned from organizations.

• [01:06-02:41] Stephanie Forbes on Payroll Fraud: Forbes shares insights on payroll vulnerabilities and fraud risks.

• [02:42-03:35] Payroll Fraud Case Study: Example of payroll fraud involving fictitious employees under a single manager.

• [03:36-05:11] Sophisticated Fraud Techniques: Discussion of fraud types, including wire fraud, and their significant impact.

• [05:12-07:20] Cybersecurity Incidents: Forbes recounts a cyber breach resulting in company system loss.

• [07:21-12:47] Cloud System Risks: Exploring cloud access risks and keychain security vulnerabilities.

• [12:48-18:05] Cyberattack Recovery: Strategies for recovery, backup importance, and governance frameworks.

• [18:06-21:16] SMB Cybersecurity Tips: Affordable, effective cybersecurity practices for small to medium businesses.

• [21:17-29:00] Final Tips: Emphasis on advanced authentication and data protection strategies.

• Catch Stephanie next at The P-World Conference in Toronto December 4th.Click here for more info https://thepworld.com/event/the-supply-chain-summit

Episode Highlights:

• [01:06] Money Leak Channels: Forbes agrees with the host on limited money outflow channels and details fraud-prone areas.

• [01:19] Payroll and Procure-to-Pay Systems: Identified as high-risk zones for fraud, with a reference to a 2023 fraud report.

• [02:42] Payroll Fraud Example: Case where one individual received 74 checks, linked to a manager's scheme.

• [03:36] Fraud Complexity: Forbes describes another fraud instance involving last-minute bank account changes.

• [06:21] Cybersecurity Focus: A real-world case where a company lost cloud control due to a cyberattack.

• [07:21] Cloud Security Explained: Forbes clarifies cloud risks, including hackers gaining access to a company's keychain.

• [12:48] Cyberattack Recovery: Importance of offsite backups and system restoration strategies.

• [18:06] Governance Models: Forbes advocates for governance models covering people, processes, and technology to defend against fraud.

• [21:17] SMB Cybersecurity Advice: Tips on cybersecurity insurance and routine data backups for small and medium businesses.

• [29:01] Final Insights: Forbes calls for barriers between cloud and operational systems and highlights authentication protocol needs.

About Our Guest:
Stephanie Forbes is a seasoned executive with over two decades in business, risk management, and supply chain. Her extensive experience has driven high-profile projects across the energy and construction sectors. As interim vice chair of Supply Chain Canada, Alberta Institute, Forbes actively supports supply chain development, with expertise in governance and supplier lifecycle management.

Where to Find Our Guest Online:

• LinkedIn – Stephanie Forbes: linkedin.com/in/calgaryforbes

Website – The Forbes Group

In this episode, we are going to learn how to catch negative self-judgment that we sometimes unintentionally do to ourselves. Andy is going to give tips that you can do once you find yourself in this situation and break free from the negative impact it brings to you, your relationships, and your career.

Go ahead and tune in to this episode now!

Quotes:

"Seldom Do People Judge Us."

"Understand That There's Judgment In The Sense Of Trying To Get Ourselves Better, But Then That Negative Self-judgment Can Definitely Hold Us Back And Will Hold Us Back."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) If You Need Help Creating A Set Of Values, You're Welcome To Sign For A Complimentary Course At Https://Theconsultingplaybook.Com/Values 

(01:19) My Career Hit A Plateau Because Of Judgment 

(04:07) There Was No "They"

(06:34) Self-judgment And What You Can Do About It  

(09:23) Negative Self-judgment Need To Be Stopped 

(10:20) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, Cat and Andy wrap up the year 2020 with inspiring thoughts as well as share tips you can easily do to effectively plan forward for what you want to achieve in the future as we welcome 2021. They talk about focus, health, and acts of kindness to start this next exciting season.

So, come on, and let's join Cat Lam and Andy Fry let's wrap up 2020 and step into 2021 with hope, courage, and a good plan!

Quotes:

"We Still Have To Take The Reins, And Figure Out What We're Going To Be Like How We Want To Live Our Lives In The Next Few Moments In Time."

"We Have To Really Focus On The Things That We Can Control And Give Up On The Things That We Can't Control."

"Even Something As Small As Paying Attention To The Music That You Listen To, Or What You Bring Into Your Brain, Or What You Tell Yourself Is Going To Make A Huge Difference To Your Life.''

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) The Wrap Up Of 2020

(00:51) Not Coming Out Of 2020 The Same

(02:55) Figuring Out What We're Going To Be

(03:47) Focusing On The Things We Can Control

(05:05) Choosing To Put The Better Situation Closer

(07:50) Independent Events Happen

(09:19) Being Intentional In Forming Good Habits

(12:55) Top Things That You Should Be Looking At

(15:00) Looking Into Better Health

(19:07) Paying Attention To What You Bring Into Your Mind

(22:09) Being Careful Of What We Normalize In Our Life   

(24:50) Doing Acts Of Kindness For Somebody           

(25:20) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, Andy shares wise advice as we go through our career journey, remembering how it was when we were starting off and reaching the level that we are now on. It is good to learn how to function effectively in each level we go through as the consulting world turns.

Learn these smart tips as you tune in to this episode now.

Quotes:

"Not Everybody In The Room Has The Same Level Of Experience That You Have.''

"Our Chronological Age Doesn't Always Show The Level Of Experience We Have In A Particular Topic."

"Look For Those Mentors, Gather As Much Information As You Possibly Can."

"Be More Patient With People Who Are Less Experienced, Help Them Out, You Know, Be A Good Guide, For Those Who Are Starting Their Careers"

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) The Career Path Taken

(01:26) Remembering How It Was 

(02:26) Being Aware Of The Difference In The Level Of Experience

(04:12) Acknowledging Others With More Experience

(07:47) Look For Mentors And Learn As Much As You Possibly Can

(08:52) Being More Patient With Less Experienced People             

(09:19) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, Andy gives us short but sweet advice on how to motivate and manage ourselves in reaching our productivity goals and target results.

Click play and learn about it now!

Quotes:

"We Need People To Do Their Chores And Their Tasks Before Getting The Reward. Seems Simple Until We're Managing Ourselves.''

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) Coffee Is For Closers

(01:07) Rewarding Ourselves During The Day

(02:12) Parenting Ourselves

(03:27) Think About How You Can Reward Yourself              

(04:42) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, Cat and Andy talk about a principle that is essential, especially as we end this year 2020 and prepare for the coming year 2021. There are great benefits that you will get as you aim to operate in a higher standard for yourself and your career, and that is why they also give out three practical steps you can immediately do to start leveling-up.

Tune in now as Cat and Andy shares with you all these, and more!

Quotes:

"The Point Of The Matter Is, Is To Have High Expectations, Because... We Really Become Our Habits."

"What [You're] Doing When No One Is Watching Is Very Much Indicative [Of] What Your Standard Is For Yourself."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) The Pygmalion Effect

(04:28) The Importance Of Having Higher Expectations 

(08:25) Actions Become Habits

(10:15) What You're Doing When No One Is Watching  

(14:48) Finding Someone That Can Support And Provide Different Perspectives

(15:55) Prepare The Day Before

(17:57) Look At What's Not Working

(20:48) Implementing Checklists

(24:34) Finding Someone That You Can Emulate

(28:53) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, we are going to hear Andy talk about how some people will choose to skip Thanksgiving, and some are for valid reasons. Because of this, he wants to inspire us all as he talks about the Law of Gratitude and what it brings to our lives.

So, hang in there, tune in to this episode now, and let us all keep on keeping on!

Quotes:

"We Start To Sometimes Dwell In The Misfortunes That Are Happening Or That We Feel Are Happening Around Us, And Understand That That Is The Most Important Time To Be Thankful For The Things You Have."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) Skipping Thanksgiving This Year 

(02:10) Really Looking At The Things That We Can Be Thankful For       

(03:00) The Law Of Gratitude

(04:32) Learning To Adjust Yourself

(05:10) Take Some Time Every Day To Be Grateful

(06:05) The Story Of The Pilgrims And Thanksgiving  

(07:12) What you can do to get out of negativity and into gratitude  

(09:13) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, Andy shares an insight that will encourage us to think about the impact we can leave on people's lives and how we can be remembered in the years to come.

Listen in now and let's be challenged to look a little deeper on how we can show up for others!

Quotes:

"I'm Just... Taken Aback At The Fact [Of ] How Much Impact We Can Have On Each Other With Just Little Acts Of Kindness, And To Understand That Those Little Acts Of Kindness, They Not Only Help Somebody Else Out, But They Help You Out. "

"Understand That Those Sorts Of Small Investments We Do In Each Other Can Make A Huge Impact."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) A Conversation With A Friend

(03:49) How One Is Being Remembered By Someone

(05:03) How Would You Like To Be Remembered In 20 Years?

(05:57) Your Little Acts Of Kindness      

(08:21) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, Andy talks about the importance of having and developing many skills in achieving success. He also points out that there is no "one skill" that will take you to success. We need a set of effective skills that will help us go through the levels of success that we aspire to accomplish.

Tune in now and learn the four things that every great consultant have and start to develop them in you! 

Quotes:

"Habits Are Far More Important Than Just Developing One Skill Towards Success. Understand That, You Know, People Who Are Successful, Have Developed Lots Of Skills."

"Intelligence Is Not The Thing That You're Born With. It's The Thing That You Really Develop."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) What's The One Thing

(02:26) Habits Are More Important   

(03:07) The Four Things That Every Great Consultant Have 

(05:43) Bringing In A Multitude Of Other Skills To Be Successful

(07:12) Constantly Developing Your Foundational Skills Of Success

(09:35) It's A Lifelong Process      

(11:20) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, Kat and Andy start discussing how to identify signs that may lead you to an unproductive day and how to deal with it. The conversation then leads to an insightful topic of brain development and the important role it plays in your goal to achieve success in life.

This an episode that you surely want to listen to and gain valuable perspectives that contribute to your success.

Quotes:

"I Think It's Supremely Important To Be Able To Know How To Get Clarity On What Is Going To Stop You From Accomplishing Whatever It Is At Hand."

"Just Try To Know Yourself And Where You Want To Go And How You Want To Improve."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) Talking Ourselves Out Of Doing Tasks

(02:27) Characteristics Of Productive Days And Not So Productive Days

(05:47) Identifying The Patterns That Are Leading To Unproductivity

(11:10) A Two-hour Rule

(16:17) People Finding Success Later In Life

(20:51) Taking Care Of Your Brain Development

(22:42) Identify Your Pace And Path To Success        

(24:22) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, Andy points out the importance of staying focused in achieving our goals and doing things that maximizes our productivity, but also the need to take some time for our selves to recharge. He emphasizes on how recharging sustains us in our journey of reaching our goals.

Listen in now and use this time to just take a break and be encouraged!

Quotes:

"You've Been Focusing A Lot On What You Want To Achieve And I'm Encouraging You To Keep Focused On Those Goals. But One Thing I Do Want To Tell You Is That You Also Need To Take Some Time For Yourself."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) Focusing On Your Goals But Also Taking Time For Yourself

(01:59) Come Up With Creative Ways To Take Time For Yourself

(04:25) The Little Things Do Matter   

(05:28) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode of The Art of Consulting podcast, hosts Andy and Cat reunite for a rare "together episode" discussing the nuances and importance of knowledge transfer in the consulting space. As consultants from various fields, they explore the idea of consulting as a temporary yet impactful role, emphasizing the value of effectively transitioning their knowledge to clients and the critical role of documentation and interpersonal skills in a consultant's success.

• [00:05] Andy and Cat kick off a special co-hosted episode, reflecting on their individual expert interviews and the rarity of their joint episodes these days.

• [00:38] They talk about their intense collaboration periods in the past, contrasting it with their recent individual projects.

• [00:46] Core Topic: The transfer of knowledge. They highlight the paradox of good consultants—working themselves out of a job—while maintaining strong client relationships, with clients often returning for help with new challenges.

• [01:37] They discuss the necessity of identifying a key person within the client's organization for knowledge transfer, ensuring smooth operations post-consultancy.

• [04:36] Discussion on the optimal timing for identifying a successor at the client site, stressing the importance of involving them from the start of the project.

• [06:46] Andy expresses concern about clients deferring knowledge transfer until after go-live, leading to gaps in understanding key project decisions.

• [10:47] The conversation shifts to the importance of moving from people-centric to system-centric operations and the risks of not having redundancy in organizational knowledge.

• [14:48] Andy and Cat discuss transferring not only technical knowledge but also the interpersonal skills and sensitivities critical to successful consulting.

• [16:55] They emphasize the need for user-friendly tools to document technical knowledge and the tact needed to convey information about team dynamics.

• [22:34] They provide an action plan for listeners on how to approach knowledge transfer. They advise identifying primary and secondary successors, choosing a starting point, using effective documentation tools, and considering the human aspect of knowledge transfer.

• [39:20] The episode closes by affirming the value of human relationships in the consulting process.

• [00:05] – Introduction: Andy and Cat discuss the rarity of co-hosting due to their individual interviews with experts.

• [00:38] – Reflection on past episodes and the evolution of their interactions.

• [00:46] – Consultant's Paradox: Good consultants work to make themselves unnecessary while maintaining client relationships.

• [01:37] – Key Individual for Knowledge Transfer: The importance of identifying a key person within the client's organization.

• [04:36] – Timing of Knowledge Transfer: Optimal timing for selecting the right person for knowledge transfer.

• [06:46] – Continuity Concerns: Issues with waiting until post go-live for knowledge transfer.

• [10:47] – Shift to System-Centric Operations: Importance of having redundancy in organizational knowledge.

• [14:48] – Comprehensive Knowledge Transfer: Technical and soft skills are equally important.

• [16:55] – User-Friendly Documentation Tools: Creating effective documentation for knowledge transfer.

• [22:34] – Action Plan for Listeners: Steps to approach knowledge transfer in consulting.

• [39:20] – Conclusion: The human aspect remains central to consulting work.

Andy and Cat are seasoned consultants with a passion for sharing their insights and experiences. They specialize in guiding organizations and individuals through complex projects, advocating for knowledge transfer to ensure sustained excellence and growth. For listeners looking to enhance their consulting skills or gain insights into the art of knowledge transfer, this episode offers valuable strategies and field anecdotes. Join Andy and Cat as they unravel the complexities and rewards of consulting, where imparting knowledge is essential for success.

In this episode, Andy talks about why we, sometimes, are not able to fulfill our commitments toward certain goals. He also shares quick steps you can do to help you get back on track in working on achieving your aspirations.

Give yourself time to gain more wisdom and tune in to this episode now!

Quotes:

"If You Don't Want To Do It, Or You Just Didn't Feel Like It, Admit It, But Then Start To Put In Practice Around Stopping That. Come Up With A Better Purpose Around Why You're Striving For The Things That You're Striving For."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) Reasons Why People Do Fulfill Their Commitment

(03:09) Stop With The Excuses And Admit To The True Reason

(04:15) Re-evaluating Your Goals 

(05:23) Be Honest With Yourself And Go Back To The Purpose Of Your Commitment

(06:26) Quick Review    

(07:56) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, we have a special guest who will join Cat and share insights about the changes that happened during the pandemic. 

Chad Griffiths has 15 plus years of experience as a commercial real estate broker and has completed over 500 transactions with clients from local companies to large institutional owners and he is committed to providing value-added services to landlords, tenants, and investors in the greater Edmonton market.

Cat and Chad talk about how the global office landscape across all industries currently looks like and how it could look like in the future. They also touched on the retail and industrial real estate industries.

You definitely want to listen to this conversation, so tune in now and gain insightful perspectives!

Quotes:

"I Think It's Great Having The Ability To Work From Home. And We Have So Much More Technology, Which Makes It A Lot Easier." - Chad Griffiths

"It Really Comes Down To How These Operators Are Approaching Their Business. And Are They Just Hoping That Things Change Or Are They Proactively Going Out To Try And Make The Change Themselves?" - Chad Griffiths

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) Greetings And Introduction Of Chad Griffiths

(03:46) The Changes In The Office Market And The Retail Market

(05:24) Working From Home

(09:05) The Need For A Larger Workspace    

(14:01) Having The Option Between Working In The Office Or At Home

(14:47) The Changes In The Retail Market

(17:04) How The Operators Are Responding And Adjusting To The Changes

(19:02) Helping Out The Struggling Companies Cope As A Consultant

(20:17) The Changes And The Impact Of The Industrial Real Estate Market

(25:43) The Concept Co-workspaces

(29:29) A Legacy That Chad Wants To Leave Behind 

(31:52) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers

In this episode, Andy encourages us that even though you are in an environment where you can't seem to find a good role model, there are ways to put yourself in a position to learn and achieve greatness.

Tune in now and find encouragement and helpful tips!

Quotes:

"We Can Use The Successes Of Other People That We Don't Know."

"Don't Downplay Your Drive Or Your Will."

Show Notes:

(00:00) Podcast Intro

(00:27) Growing Up In An Environment With Less Displayed Success

(02:11) Using The Success Of Other People You've Never Met As A Role Model

(03:37) The Opportunities Don't Discriminate

(05:23) Education Is The Way Out 

(06:41) Andy's New Book The Trust Paradigm Is Available On Amazon And Other Book Retailers