Explore every episode of the podcast Great Talent Great Business
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Want $200M Results? Start with a 5-Year Plan | 17 Jun 2025 | 00:38:22 | |
Episode Summary
Key Takeaway
Questions I ask Dan: 01:33 What were the top drivers that led to the success of Donnelly Mechanical? 12:26 When you made your partners responsible for key parts of the business, did you have to train them up, or were they already prepared for those roles? 17:59 What did you learn from selling Donnelly Mechanical that business owners should know? 27:03 With all the communication tools we have today, what should business owners be doing about it? 29:14 You were already successful when you joined Vistage, why was it still important to seek feedback and keep learning?
More About Dan Donnelly:
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| Build for a Big Exit – Even If You’re Not Selling | 10 Jun 2025 | 00:27:03 | |
Episode Summary
Key Takeaway
Questions I ask Lewis 01:39 What are the most successful founders get right and or wrong about building their teams? 05:25 How do you know if your leadership team is truly strong? One question I heard recently sums it up: Are they pushing you or pulling you? 07:26 What mindset shifts do entrepreneurs typically make after going through the Birthing of Giants program—especially when it comes to talent? 10:15 What's the biggest opportunity and the biggest threat that business owners have in front of them right now? 14:35 What are the best companies you work with doing to attract and retain top talent at all levels? 19:03 What megatrends should founders be paying attention to right now?
More About Lewis Schiff:
More About Rob Levin & WorkBetterNow: Like this show? Click on over and subscribe to our channel! Follow Rob Levin on LinkedIn. Follow WorkBetterNow on LinkedIn.
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| It’s Not Rocket Science: Insights from a Leading Employee Retention Expert | 31 Mar 2025 | 00:31:16 | |
In this episode, Rob Levin is joined by Chason Hecht, CEO and founder of Retensa, a global leader in employee retention strategies. With decades of data and experience behind him, Chason dives into what really drives retention—and spoiler alert—it starts way before someone quits. From knowing why people join and stay, to the rising impact of remote work, and how culture, hiring, and feedback all play a role, this episode is packed with insights (and a few laughs) that every small and mid-sized business owner needs to hear. Key Takeaway: Retention isn’t just about keeping people—it’s about keeping the right people for your company’s culture and stage of growth. As Chason Hecht explains, most small and midsized businesses don’t have a retention problem—they have a hiring problem. When you align your hiring process with your company values, understand why employees join, stay, or leave, and create ongoing feedback loops, you build a foundation for long-term success. Especially in remote or hybrid environments, flexibility, recognition, and clear communication can be powerful (and often low-cost) retention tools that help high performers thrive and stay engaged. Questions I ask Chason Hecht: 01:41 What is the significance and importance of retention in small and mid-sized business? 06:20 What's different on the retention side, and the importance of retention in that business? 08:20 Is all retention good, or is there some retention that's not so good? 10:43 What are some of the more common challenges in small and midsized businesses when it comes to retention? 13:55 How can companies mitigate challenges like hiring mistakes or trying to "act big" before they’re ready? 14:24 Retensa is known for taking a data-driven approach to predicting and preventing turnover. What does that look like? 15:37 Give us a couple of examples of the kinds of questions you ask employees to gather meaningful feedback. 16:59 After asking those questions, are you looking at aggregate results or individual responses? 19:16 How does remote work affect retention, and what do businesses need to keep in mind? 20:55 Some companies are going back to five days a week in-office. What are the risks, and what is “coffee badging”? 23:02 What’s your message to employers—especially those with remote or hybrid teams—about these shifts in work culture? 27:10 Any final suggestions for retaining top talent?
More About Chason: Check out Retensa Connect with Chason on LinkedIn.
More About Rob Levin & WorkBetterNow: Like this show? Click on over and subscribe to our YouTube channel! Follow Rob Levin on LinkedIn. Visit WorkBetterNow.com
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| Why Your Best Employees Leave (And What to Do About It) | 25 Mar 2025 | 00:18:16 | |
In this episode of Great Talent Great Business, Rob Levin chats with Mark Taylor—CEO coach, entrepreneur, and leadership expert—on what truly separates great leaders from the rest. They dive into why leadership development is often overlooked, the power of CEO peer groups, and how Positive Intelligence helps leaders manage stress, build resilience, and stop self-sabotage. Key Takeaway: Great leadership isn’t just about strategy—it’s about mindset, and that has a critical effect on the success of small and mid-sized businesses. Through CEO peer groups, leaders can gain valuable insights and uncover blind spots that hinder progress. Positive Intelligence is a powerful tool for managing stress, building resilience, and shifting from self-sabotage to success. By identifying personal saboteurs (like the hyper-achiever mindset) and strengthening mental fitness, leaders can create a more engaged, high-performing team while improving their own decision-making and well-being. Questions I ask Mark: [2:04] What’s the best advice you can give small and mid-size business owners to spot and grow strong leaders? [3:26] What traits have you seen work really well when it comes to spotting potential leaders? [4:08] Why should a business owner consider joining a CEO peer group? [5:46] Can you tell us more about Positive Intelligence and why it’s important for business owners? [7:45] How does Positive Intelligence help business owners shift their mindset and build more resilience? [12:58] What percentage of your Positive Intelligence clients that go through the program, roll this out to some of the members of their team? [15:11] What are the strongest leadership characteristics you’ve seen in the most successful businesses?
More About Mark Taylor: Check out Mark Taylor Connect with Mark on LinkedIn.
More About Rob Levin & WorkBetterNow: Like this show? Click on over and subscribe to our channel! Follow Rob Levin on LinkedIn. Visit WorkBetterNow.com 📥 Download the free worksheet for this episode HERE and subscribe so you never miss an episode! | |||
| The Hidden Drain on Your Bottom Line: Unused Human Capacity | 18 Mar 2025 | 00:25:01 | |
On this episode of Great Talent Great Business, Rob Levin interviews Bob Borcherdt, Founder and CEO of IN2GREAT and discuss how you can unlock the hidden potential within your organization. Bob delves into the root causes, emphasizing the critical role of leadership development and the creation of cultures of clarity. Learn how fostering better leaders and clearer expectations can drive employee engagement, boost productivity, and ultimately impact your bottom line. Key Takeaway: Leadership development isn’t the job of HR, consultants, or training programs—it’s yours. To unlock your team’s full potential, drive engagement, and boost profitability, it must be intentional, ongoing, and embedded in daily work. It starts with creating a culture of clarity—where expectations are clear and feedback flows both ways. People know exactly what’s expected of them and are set up to win. Without that, businesses operate with unused human capacity that directly impacts productivity and retention. The best way to develop your people? Meaningful one-on-one interactions that focus on their unique strengths. When your people win, your business wins.
Questions I ask Bob Borcherdt: [02:40] Tell us about this concept of the unused human capacity that exists in every organization, and what does that mean to businesses? [08:20] Could you provide some examples of what this unused human capacity might look like in a typical small to mid-sized business? [10:01] Can you elaborate on what culture of clarity means? [12:27] Is it critical for a company to have clarity on its goals at all levels to avoid this unused human capacity? [13:46] When working with businesses to tap into their unused human capacity, what is your initial approach? [15:37] How does the Predictive Index work, and how does it help identify and reduce unused human capacity? [17:23] How does data from the Predictive Index improve communication and operational clarity? [20:38] What major workplace culture shifts have you seen, especially with Gen Z and millennials, and how should companies adapt?
More About Bob: Check out IN2GREAT Connect with Bob on LinkedIn.
More About Rob Levin & WorkBetterNow: Like this show? Click on over and subscribe to our YouTube channel! Visit WorkBetterNow.com 📥 Download the free worksheet for this episode HERE and subscribe so you never miss an episode!
| |||
| Workplace Happiness: The Secret Weapon for Performance & Profit | 11 Mar 2025 | 00:20:51 | |
In this episode of Great Talent Great Business, Rob Levin interviews Jade Green, an expert in company culture. Jade emphasizes that company culture is "caught, not taught," and that businesses should focus on modeling the values they want to instill in their employees. Jade explains that businesses have a responsibility to care for their employees to create a positive and productive work environment. Key Takeaway: Company culture isn’t just about words on a wall—it’s shaped by how leaders and employees consistently model the desired behaviors, influencing the culture more than stated values ever could. Small actions matter. The way a sales manager handles deals or how leaders embody company values directly impacts trust, integrity, and team morale within the organization. Investing in employee growth, removing roadblocks to happiness, and leading by example ensures that your team truly embodies the company culture. Questions I ask Jade: [02:33] - When it comes to company culture, what should small and midsize businesses be doing? [15:47] - If someone has been doing business a certain way for a while and wants to change their company culture, what's the first thing they need to do? [08:09] - What are some of the simple ways that businesses can boost employee happiness and then experience the results? [12:36] - What can businesses do these days to attract top talent when there's just not enough of it to go around? [13:52] - Give me some examples of what providing learning opportunities might look like. [16:08] - What should companies be doing when it comes to onboarding? [18:27] - What are some of the things you need to do to make employees productive?
More About Jade Green: Check out Väre Effect Connect with Jade on LinkedIn.
More About Rob Levin & WorkBetterNow: Like this show? Click on over and subscribe to our YouTube channel! Follow Rob Levin on LinkedIn. If you are looking to integrate Outstanding Talent from Latin America into your business, Visit WorkBetterNow.com 📥 Download the free worksheet for this episode HERE and subscribe so you never miss an episode! | |||
| Are You the Bottleneck? How to Stop Sabotaging Your Own Growth | 04 Mar 2025 | 00:18:52 | |
What does it take to build a company that runs itself? In this episode, Rob Levin and Chris Beer dive into the real challenges behind business growth—hint: it’s not just about hiring an integrator. Chris explains how leaders can create clarity, delegate effectively, and build a culture of ownership. They explore the roles of visionaries and integrators, the power of letting go, and how the right compensation and incentives drive engagement. From fostering a strong team culture to navigating transitions with confidence, this episode is packed with insights for leaders looking to scale without micromanaging.
Key Takeaway: Chris Beer shares valuable insights for business owners facing challenges like role confusion and lack of process documentation. Many think they need an integrator, but the real issue is missing clarity and structure. She explains how the EOS framework helps define roles, with the Integrator partnering with the Visionary (CEO), and LMA (Leading, Managing, and Holding Accountable) shaping leadership. Delegation is key to success, along with a shared understanding of the company’s vision and values. Financial transparency and performance incentives boost engagement, while clear roles and processes foster ownership. Creating a positive, joyful work environment and taking ownership during tough times empowers teams to succeed.
Questions I ask Chris: [01:36] – Is the stated problem different from the real problem? [03:59] – What are the roles of an Integrator and LMA in a company? [05:58] – How can owners do a better job in terms of making their dreams come true, making their goals a reality or set another way? [07:32] – What are people missing when it comes to readiness? [11:11] – How should companies approach compensation and incentives? [12:24] – How can leaders foster ownership within their teams? [13:41] – Does an ownership mentality start at the top, or can it be nurtured at all levels? [17:19] – What strategies help manage transitions effectively?
More About Chris Beer: Check out Wizard of Ops®. Connect with Chris on LinkedIn.
More About Rob Levin & WorkBetterNow: Like this show? Click on over and subscribe to our YouTube channel! Follow Rob Levin on LinkedIn. Visit WorkBetterNow.com 📥 Download the free worksheet for this episode HERE and subscribe so you never miss an episode! | |||
| The Hidden Cost: How Your Team’s Image Is Costing You Business | 25 Feb 2025 | 00:19:56 | |
On this episode of Great Talent Great Business, Rob Levin chats with Alyssa Gelbard, founder and CEO of Point Road Group, about the power of employee branding. Alyssa breaks it down, explaining that employee branding is all about how a company’s people represent and promote the brand in everything they do—whether they’re interacting with clients, networking, or even just posting on LinkedIn. Key Takeaway: Employee branding isn’t rocket science, but it has a big impact. Alyssa Gelbard breaks it down—how your team represents your brand in emails, meetings, and LinkedIn matters more than you think. Small details, like response times and online presence, can influence hiring, client deals, and referrals. Employee branding is part of employer branding, and it starts at the top—if leadership doesn’t prioritize it, no one else will. The fix? Awareness, audits, and consistency. Strong LinkedIn profiles, clear communication standards, and a solid brand foundation help ensure your team is representing the company well. Questions I ask Alyssa: •[01:47] What does the term employee brand mean? And why is it important? •[03:41] What are some subtle elements that constitute an employee brand? •[04:49] What is the difference between employer brand and employee brand? •[05:58] What actions and considerations should business owners take to enhance their employee brand company-wide? • [14:15] When a client needs help with their employee brand, where do you start? What steps do they have to go through? •[16:09] What guidelines should companies provide regarding employee LinkedIn content? •[18:52] How can people find out more about Alyssa and her company?
More About Alyssa Gelbard: Check out Point Road Group. Connect with Alyssa on LinkedIn.
More About Rob Levin & WorkBetterNow: Like this show? Click on over and subscribe to our YouTube channel! Follow Rob Levin on LinkedIn. Visit WorkBetterNow.com 📥 Download the free worksheet for this episode HERE and subscribe so you never miss an episode! | |||
| Finally! Expert Shares Secrets to Working with Younger Generations | 17 Feb 2025 | 00:27:00 | |
In this episode of Great Talent, Great Business, Rob Levin sits down with Jon Sheppard to dive into the realities of generational differences in the workplace. They explore how each generation brings unique strengths, challenges, and expectations—and why these differences sometimes create tension. Key Takeaway: One of the biggest takeaways from this episode is that generational clashes in the workplace are often fueled by assumptions rather than real conflicts. Each generation has different values, communication styles, and work expectations, but these differences don’t have to be a source of frustration. When we take the time to understand where others are coming from—rather than judging or resisting change—we open the door to stronger collaboration, more effective communication, and a workplace culture that benefits from diverse perspectives. Embracing these differences isn’t just about avoiding tension; it’s about unlocking new ideas, innovation, and growth. Questions I ask Jon: •[01:53] What is generationality and when did you identify it? •[05:13] Is the pandemic the main reason for generational issues at work? •[07:24] Give examples of generational conflict in the workplace. •[10:16] Is setting expectations a big part of solving generational issues? •[12:00] Is this issue prevalent with fewer generations at work? •[14:02] Is the "lazy" stereotype about younger generations accurate? •[15:40] How can businesses turn generational challenges into opportunities? •[18:08] Should businesses ask younger generations what they want? •[20:13] What do younger generations offer that older generations do not? •[22:55] What does "work-life rhythm" mean for different generations?
More About Jon Sheppard: Check out J.Sheppard Associates. Connect with Jon on LinkedIn.
More About Rob Levin & WorkBetterNow: Like this show? Click on over and subscribe to our YouTube channel! Follow Rob Levin on Linkedin. Visit WorkBetterNow.com
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| Why Culture Fails – and How Systems Can Fix It | 03 Jun 2025 | 00:24:30 | |
In this episode, Don Harkey, CEO and Founder of People Centric Consulting Group, joins Rob to explore how systems—not slogans—create strong cultures. They talk about what it means to balance empowerment with alignment, the hidden cost of poor onboarding, how to adapt during rapid change, and why remote work shouldn’t derail culture if you’re deliberate about how you lead. Key Takeaway: Culture isn’t about perks—it’s about systems. If you want better engagement and performance, build habits and structures that empower people while keeping everyone aligned.
Questions I ask Don: 01:33 What does “culture-centric leadership” mean? 03:51 Where do most companies go wrong when trying to improve culture? 05:36 How do systems and processes play a role in shaping workplace culture? 09:25 How does rapid business change impact the way leaders should think about a people-centric culture? 12:32 How can leaders effectively communicate the need for change so their teams truly understand it and take proactive action? 18:48 What should fast-growing small and mid-sized businesses keep in mind to maintain a people-centric culture as they scale? 20:32 What should be done differently in a remote or hybrid model to maintain a people-centric culture?
More About Don Harkey:
More About Rob Levin & WorkBetterNow: Like this show? Click on over and subscribe to our channel! Follow Rob Levin on Linkedin. Follow WorkBetterNow on LinkedIn.
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| You’re a CEO – Not a Hero: How to Maximize Your Team’s Effectiveness | 27 May 2025 | 00:22:19 | |
Episode Summary In this episode, Rob sits down with Jennifer Berkowitz, founder of R&J Advisory Group and Freedom Goal Group, and a seasoned coach to mid-market CEOs and leadership teams. Jennifer shares what it really takes to scale a company—without becoming the bottleneck or burning out. From building alignment across teams to leading remote employees with intention, she offers practical strategies for creating clarity, reducing stress, and empowering teams to drive growth. If you're a business owner stuck in the weeds or unsure how to get your team rowing in the same direction, this conversation is for you. Key Takeaway Scaling successfully isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing less yourself. CEOs must stop trying to be the hero and start building teams that are clear, empowered, and aligned. With the right tools, systems, and rhythms in place, business owners can reduce stress, unlock profit, and grow sustainably—even with remote or hybrid teams Questions I Ask Jennifer What are the most common growing pains you see in mid-market companies? How can business leaders make sure their teams are aligned with company goals? What mindset shift do CEOs need to make to grow more effectively? How can a better dashboard reduce stress and increase clarity? What are the biggest challenges of managing remote and hybrid teams—and how can leaders overcome them? How do you know when someone isn’t the right fit for your organization? Why do business owners sometimes need to “slow down to speed up”? Where can people learn more about your work and upcoming trainings?
More About Jennifer Berkowitz:
More About Rob Levin & WorkBetterNow: Like this show? Click on over and subscribe to our channel! Follow Rob Levin on Linkedin. Follow WorkBetterNow on LinkedIn.
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| You Can’t Buy Culture: Lessons from 40+ Acquisitions | 20 May 2025 | 00:23:31 | |
Episode Summary In this episode, Rob sits down with Eddie Solomon, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Net at Work, a leading technology advisor to SMBs. Eddie shares the lessons he’s learned from leading over 40 acquisitions, building a 450-person remote workforce, and fostering a strong company culture over nearly three decades. They dive into the strategic importance of talent in acquisitions, the balance between intrapreneurship and structure, and the deliberate efforts required to keep remote teams engaged and growing. Whether you're scaling your company or navigating post-acquisition integration, this conversation is packed with actionable insights. Key TakeawayA successful business isn’t just built on clients—it’s built on people. Companies that prioritize talent integration during acquisitions, invest in leadership development, and take a deliberate approach to culture in remote environments will be best positioned for long-term growth. Questions I Ask Eddie[03:21] How do you assess talent during the acquisition process? [7:32] How important is cultural alignment in a deal? [10:28] How has your company culture evolved over 30 years? [12:32] What are the biggest trade-offs that come with scaling a business and going remote? [17:13] What do you do to keep remote teams aligned and engaged? [18:37] How do you train leaders to manage effectively in a remote-first company? [20:28] What does career development and internal mobility look like at Net at Work?
More About Eddie Solomon: Check out Net at Work Connect with Eddie on LinkedIn
More About Rob Levin & WorkBetterNow: Like this show? Click on over and subscribe to our channel! Follow Rob Levin on Linkedin. Follow WorkBetterNow on LinkedIn.
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| Is It Time to Fire the Founder? | 13 May 2025 | 00:27:41 | |
In this episode, Rob Levin talks with Nick Herinckx, Co-CEO of Oxygen and seasoned executive coach, to explore how a founder’s role evolves as a business scales. Drawing from experience coaching over 100 CEOs and leading multiple companies himself, Nick breaks down what leaders often get wrong. From understanding the difference between managers and leaders to knowing when to step in (and out) of “Founder Mode,” this episode is packed with practical advice for business owners navigating growth.
Key takeaway Founders and CEOs must adapt at every stage of growth, and that includes building leaders who push you, not the other way around. Creating a scalable business means investing in your managers, clarifying your own role, and making intentional decisions based on what kind of company you truly want to build (or sell).
Questions I Ask Nick 02:11 What's the role of the business owner/CEO? 03:44 What are some of the challenges CEO's usually face? 07:03 How can you tell if your leadership team is pushing you, or if you’re still dragging them? 09:05 What is "Founder Mode" and when should a CEO step into it? 13:45 Why is promoting high-performers into management without training such a big risk? 17:46 When a great manager is promoted into a leadership role, should business owners invest in outside training for them, or is it better for the owner to coach them directly? 19:07 How can CEOs develop leadership in a remote or hybrid environment? 23:06 What should business owners consider when preparing for a sale or exit?
More About Nick Herinckx: More About Rob Levin & WorkBetterNow: Like this show? Click on over and subscribe to our channel! Follow Rob Levin on Linkedin. Follow WorkBetterNow on LinkedIn.
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| How to 2X Your Output – Without the Burnout | 05 May 2025 | 00:25:10 | |
In this episode, Rob chats with Peter Morandi, CEO of Eastman Cooke, a company renowned for building award-winning construction projects through innovation and leadership. Peter shares how he’s transformed the traditionally manual construction industry by integrating remote professionals into nearly every department, from estimating to project management. He dives into the systems, culture, and mindset that allowed Eastman Cooke to double its annual estimates, improve client satisfaction, and reduce costly errors. Key TakeawayRemote professionals aren't just support—they’re strategic assets. With the right tools, systems, and mindset, even traditionally "boots-on-the-ground" industries like construction can benefit from offshore talent and dramatically improve efficiency, accuracy, and client relationships. Questions I ask Peter2:15 How do you get your team to buy into new systems, automation, and more productive ways of working? 3:37 How did you build buy-in for your ECA Work Smart system across the company? 6:26 What impact has having an assistant made on your personal productivity and leadership? 8:26 How do remote professionals support critical functions like estimating and project management? 11:49 What measurable results have you seen from adding remote assistants across departments? 19:06 How did your team adapt to working with offshore professionals?
More About Peter Morandi:
More About Rob Levin & WorkBetterNow: Like this show? Click over and subscribe to our channel! Follow Rob Levin on Linkedin. Follow WorkBetterNow on LinkedIn.
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| The 9 Game-Changing Business Lessons You Can't Afford to Miss | 22 Apr 2025 | 00:10:03 | |
In this special episode, host Rob Levin looks back on Season 1 of the Great Talent, Great Business Podcast. He shares the most powerful takeaways from conversations with nine incredible guests. From generational differences in the workplace to building intentional company culture, Rob highlights the insights that left a mark—and how he’s applying them in real time at Work Better Now. This episode is the perfect way to catch up on the season’s best ideas and get inspired for what’s next.
Key Takeaway:
More About Rob Levin & WorkBetterNow: Watch all video episodes in this Youtube Playlist. Follow Rob Levin on LinkedIn. Visit WorkBetterNow.com | |||
| Your Culture is Either by Design – Or by Default | 15 Apr 2025 | 00:32:40 | |
In this episode, Rob chats with Jack Daly, legendary sales trainer, entrepreneur, author, and endurance athlete. They dive into how business owners can build a culture by design, not by default, no matter if their teams are in-office or remote. Jack shares proven strategies for creating an environment where people want to work, why playbooks are critical across the organization (not just in sales), and the three high-impact changes that help businesses scale effectively. Packed with real-world stories and Jack’s signature energy, this is a must-listen for any business owner serious about growth, alignment, and culture. Key Takeaway: A thriving company culture doesn’t happen by accident. Business owners must proactively design their culture, invest in clear communication, and build systems that scale—like playbooks, recognition programs, and robust financial plans. Whether you’re just starting or running a company for 15 years, it’s never too late to realign your business for greater impact.
Questions I ask Jack Daly: 03:15 What should leaders focus on to make Culture by Design intentional rather than just letting it happen? 06:32 Where do you start to start to turn around that culture and make it more intentional? 10:11 What are some considerations that you should make to accommodate and to engage your people who are not in the office? 15:48 Company playbooks are very effective. How should business owners be thinking about playbooks throughout their organizations? 18:22 What are your thoughts about having playbooks in other parts of the organization? 22:14 What are the top three things your coaching clients do that make the biggest impact? 26:37 When we talk about a financial plan, are this KPIs, a full budget, or both revenue and expense projections? 27:00 When it comes to the products, is it just revenue that you're looking at or are there some other things to look at from time to time?
More About Jack: Check out Jack Daly Sales Looking for a good read? Explore Jack’s books here Connect with Jack on LinkedIn.
More About Rob Levin & WorkBetterNow: Like this show? Click on over and subscribe to our YouTube channel! Follow Rob Levin on LinkedIn. Visit WorkBetterNow.com 📥 Download the free worksheet for this episode HERE and subscribe so you never miss an episode! | |||
| Hiring with Gut Instinct? You're Probably Getting It Wrong | 07 Apr 2025 | 00:20:36 | |
In this episode, Rob sits down with Michael Deutsch, Managing Partner of The Deutsch Group and owner of Sapphire Talent. They explore the often-overlooked art (and science) of hiring. Michael shares his insights on why most small and mid-sized businesses struggle with hiring, what needs to change, and how organizations can design better hiring processes—especially in remote and hybrid environments. They also dive into broader business challenges like getting stuck despite having the “right people” and how to break through those barriers. Key Takeaway: Hiring is more than just filling a seat—it’s about building intentional processes to find and empower the right people. Companies that invest time in preparing structured, curiosity-driven interviews and create culture by design, especially in remote settings, are more likely to scale effectively and sustainably. Questions I ask Michael Deutsch: 01:46 What are most companies missing out with respect to hiring? 02:48 Where should companies start in terms of improving their hiring process? 03:35 Is it about hiring a good person or hiring the right person for a specific role? 04:38 How do you evaluate whether someone is right for the job during interviews? 06:51 What should the person hiring look for in an answer to a follow up question during an interview? 10:13 How do you assess if someone will thrive in a remote or hybrid environment? 15:47 Other than hiring, what’s the biggest challenge business owners face in getting the most out of their teams? 17:45 When a company already has the right people, where do they still get stuck?
More About Michael: Check out Michael on EOS Connect with Michael on LinkedIn.
More About Rob Levin & WorkBetterNow: Like this show? Click on over and subscribe to our YouTube channel! Follow Rob Levin on LinkedIn. Visit WorkBetterNow.com 📥 Download the free worksheet for this episode HERE and subscribe so you never miss an episode! | |||
| Simple Shifts to Build a Stronger Team and Higher Profits | 16 Sep 2025 | 00:25:29 | |
What does it take to build a standout team in a creative, fast-paced industry like fashion? In this episode, Rob sits down with Drew Pizzo, who has led Collection 18 for over 30 years, to explore how a commitment to unique ability, clear values, and ongoing development has helped him build one of the most admired cultures in his space. From rigorous hiring to daily team rhythms and executive coaching, Drew shares the behind-the-scenes strategies that keep his team engaged, aligned, and competitive—even as the fashion world continues to evolve.
About the Guest Drew Pizzo is the owner and president of Collection 18, a women’s fashion accessories company he has led since 1992. Known for combining innovation with operational discipline, Drew has cultivated a company culture that fuels creativity and results. Outside of his business, he serves as President of the Executive Board of CancerCare and Vice Chairman of the Fashion Accessories Benefit Ball (FABB).
Episode Highlight “If you want exceptional results, hire for exceptional ability—and keep people in their zone of genius.” Actionable Insights
Download This Episode’s Playbook
More About Drew Pizzo Check out Collection 18
More About Rob Levin & WorkBetterNow Like this show? Click on over and subscribe to our channel! | |||
| How Stupid Rules are Holding Your Business Back | 09 Sep 2025 | 00:18:28 | |
In a world moving from change to chaos, Lisa Bodell makes the case for subtraction: kill needless rules, cut administrivia, and restore focus to meaningful work. She shares a simple, leader-led process to remove friction, the cultural and retention gains from clarity, and how to use AI as a coach to identify what to stop, simplify, and stress-test. The takeaway: mandate simplification, model it, and reset leadership norms so teams spend time where it counts.
About the guest
Episode Highlight
Actionable insights
Download This Episode’s Playbook
More About Lisa Bodell Check out FutureThink and lisabodell.com
More About Rob Levin & WorkBetterNow Like this show? Click on over and subscribe to our channel! | |||
| The Biggest Leak in Your P&L Might Be Your Culture | 01 Jul 2025 | 00:23:01 | |
Episode Summary In this episode, Shawn Busse, Founder and CEO of Kinesis, shares why aligning culture, brand, and strategy isn’t just a feel-good exercise — it’s a growth strategy. He explains how values-driven leadership can reduce costly turnover, build trust with clients, and create exponential impact across a business. 💡 Plus: Why most businesses get "values" wrong — and how to fix it.
Key Takeaway
Questions I Ask Shawn 01:30 What does “Marketing from the Inside Out” mean for small businesses? 02:47 How can business owners align their internal culture with their external brand? 05:02 How does investing in culture actually drive revenue growth? 09:09 What are values-driven companies, and what do most business owners get wrong about values? 14:21 What role should leadership play in shaping strategy, workforce, and culture? 16:22 What should business owners stop doing when it comes to culture? 19:06 How can aligning your people strategy with your business model create a competitive advantage?
More About Shawn Busse:
More About Rob Levin & WorkBetterNow: Like this show? Subscribe to our channel! Follow Rob Levin on LinkedIn. Follow WorkBetterNow on LinkedIn.
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| The Hidden Misalignment Costing You Growth, Energy, and Retention | 24 Jun 2025 | 00:24:50 | |
Episode Summary In this episode, leadership coach and consultant Adrienne Duffy shares how business owners can build aligned, high-performing teams by connecting vision, values, and unique abilities. She introduces the Nexus Project framework and explains why sustainable growth depends on both inner and outer development.
Key Takeaway
Questions I Ask Adrienne 01:50 Can you tell us a little bit about what The Nexus Project is and how it came to life? 04:27 Where does alignment start? 06:06 How often do you see a business owner who doesn't know where they're going? 08:26 What is a unique ability and why is that so important with alignment? 13:10 How does a business leader go about helping their team members understand their unique abilities? 16:18 Before matching people to roles, how do we figure out what a role needs in terms of strengths or traits, like Print or Kolbe? 18:03 As the company grows and roles evolve, should leaders regularly reassess what each role requires and whether the current person is still the right fit? 19:23 What are some signs that a team is out of alignment, and what are the first things they need to do to correct that? 20:51 What's a step that business owners can take to move to a more aligned and empowered team?
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| Want a High-Performing Team? Measure What Matters | 29 Aug 2025 | 00:25:20 | |
If you think team performance is too fuzzy to measure, this episode will challenge that mindset. Eddie Geller, a seasoned entrepreneur and performance strategist, talks with Rob Levin about how data, not just gut instinct, can help leaders unlock the full potential of their teams. Eddie shares how SKOR helps companies go beyond culture surveys and engagement scores by identifying what drives (or blocks) team performance. From embracing AI to generational shifts in the workplace, this is a forward-thinking conversation about what leadership looks like when you put people and measurement at the center.
About the Guest Eddie Geller is an entrepreneur and performance strategist who believes technology can unlock the best in people and teams. He’s the founder and CEO of SKOR, a platform that measures and improves team performance through clear data and actionable insights. Previously, he co-founded Tinybeans, which went public in 2017. Originally from Australia and now based in New York, Eddie brings decades of experience building high-performing, people-first companies.
Episode Highlight “If it’s not written, it’s what’s lived. Culture isn’t what’s on the wall—it’s how your team shows up every day.” Actionable Insights
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| The #1 Mistake CEOs Make When Trying to Scale | 22 Aug 2025 | 00:26:07 | |
In this episode, Rob sits down with Kurt Wilkin—entrepreneur, advisor, and author of Who's Your Mike?—to unpack what it really takes to scale a business with the right team. Kurt shares why so many CEOs stall their own growth by holding onto the wrong people for too long, what “hiring better” actually looks like, and how to level up your leadership by embracing self-awareness. It’s a candid, BS-free conversation from someone who’s helped hundreds of founders build companies that grow—and last.
About the Guest Kurt Wilkin is the co-founder of HireBetter, a strategic talent partner for growth-minded companies, and managing partner at Bee Cave Capital. With decades of experience advising entrepreneurs, Kurt brings a plainspoken, no-nonsense approach to leadership and scaling. He’s also the author of Who’s Your Mike?, a guide for founders navigating the messy human side of business growth.
Episode Highlight “Who got you here won’t always get you there.” Actionable Insights
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| From Winging It to Building a Winning Foundation | 15 Aug 2025 | 00:27:06 | |
In this episode, Matt Tritt, Founder and President of Greenlight Consulting & Management, shares his journey from burnout to building a purpose-driven owner’s rep firm in the high-stakes world of NYC real estate. He talks with Rob about shifting from winging it to leading with intention, the role of core values in hiring and client outcomes, and how connection drives both culture and performance.
About Matt Tritt Matthew Tritt is the Founder and President of Greenlight Consulting & Management, a boutique Owner’s Representation firm specializing in mid-market ground-up development and adaptive reuse projects in the New York City area. With over 20 years of experience in real estate development and construction, Matt helps developers navigate complex projects while building long-term partnerships rooted in integrity and results. He leads with values like collaboration, transparency, and tailored solutions to drive outcomes that last.
Episode Highlight “When I started leading with my heart first, everything changed — the energy, the clarity, the buy-in.” — Matthew Tritt
Actionable Insights
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| The Sales Expert's Guide to Doubling Revenue – Without Adding Headcount | 12 Aug 2025 | 00:29:41 | |
What if the biggest barrier to sales growth isn’t your product or your pitch — but your people? In this episode, globally recognized sales strategist Morné Smit shares how he helps companies unlock 30% to 130% year-over-year growth by aligning talent, process, and proposition. From diagnosing flatlining pipelines to scaling without bloated sales teams, Morné reveals the sales leadership moves that drive sustainable results.
About Morné Smit
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Actionable Insights
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| Why Most Teams Struggle – and How Unique Ability Fixes It | 05 Aug 2025 | 00:32:28 | |
In this episode, Shannon Waller, entrepreneurial team strategist at Strategic Coach, shares insights on building high-performing teams through Unique Ability® teamwork. She and Rob discuss delegation, recognizing when to let go of wrong-fit team members, and how to create a culture where everyone thrives in their zone of genius.
About the Guest Shannon Waller is a longtime Strategic Coach® team member and creator of The Entrepreneurial Team® Program. She is the author of The Team Success Handbook and Multiplication by Subtraction, and co-author of Superpowered and Unique Ability® 2.0: Discovery. She hosts the Team Success podcast and co-hosts Inside Strategic Coach with Dan Sullivan.
Episode Highlight “When you can surround yourself with people who are just as passionate and capable in their area of expertise as you are in yours—that’s when true teamwork happens.”
Actionable Insights
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| Build Culture Like You Build Profit: On Purpose | 29 Jul 2025 | 00:18:07 | |
Daniel Todd, CEO of Influence Mobile, joins Rob to discuss how he’s scaled a remote-first company across borders while maintaining a culture that consistently earns “Best Places to Work” recognition. He shares actionable strategies for building trust, leading distributed teams, and adopting AI to enhance productivity and future-proof talent.
About the Guest
Episode Highlight
Actionable Insights
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| How Founders Can Let Go and Level Up | 22 Jul 2025 | 00:22:04 | |
What’s the difference between working in the business vs. on the business—and why does it matter so much? In this episode, Rob talks with Jamie Munoz, founder of Catalyst Integrators™, about the power of the visionary-integrator partnership, the value of intentional structure, and how fractional leadership is evolving to meet the needs of growing businesses.
About Jamie Munoz Jamie is the founder of Catalyst Integrators™, a firm that provides COO-level leadership for companies running on EOS®. Her team of experienced integrators helps visionary founders get out of the weeds and scale with confidence. Catalyst has earned national recognition—SBA’s Best Business Coaches award three years in a row and a spot on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list.
🗣️ “You don't just need time to work on the business—you need to be your best self when you're doing it.” — Jamie Munoz
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More About Jamie Munoz Check out Catalyst Integrators.
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| Built, Not Born: The Hidden Power of Deliberate Leadership | 08 Jul 2025 | 00:20:45 | |
In this episode, Rob Levin speaks with Laura Crothers, founder and CEO of Crothers Consulting, about how leadership planning and deliberate talent development can dramatically impact company growth—especially for small and mid-sized businesses. Laura shares actionable strategies for building leadership pipelines, navigating succession, and assessing culture fit in acquisitions.
About Laura Crothers
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