The Learning Network Archives - Training Unleashed

In the dynamic world of talent acquisition, the interview process stands as a crucial gateway to identifying exceptional individuals who can contribute meaningfully to an organization’s success. Jordan Burton, an expert in interviewing and assessments shared valuable insights on everything from navigating interview questions to post-interview development strategies

Shifting Perspectives: From Good vs. Bad to Data Gathering

Jordan Burton challenged the conventional wisdom of categorizing interview responses as “good” or “bad.” Instead, he emphasized viewing interviews as data gathering exercises, where the focus should be on extracting meaningful information rather than passing judgment on the responses. With this Evan Hackel expressed his struggle with maintaining objectivity during interviews, admitting his inclination to root for every candidate. Burton emphasized the importance of approaching interviews with curiosity and objectivity, aiming to gather factual information rather than forming subjective impressions.

Interviewer Skills: Navigating the Conversation

Burton emphasized the importance of interviewer skills in managing dialogue effectively, guiding candidates to provide concrete examples and avoiding subjective biases. Its the responsibility of the interviewer to create a balance between keeping interviewees comfortable so that the interviewee is open and willing to talk and open up during the process. Burton emphasized the importance of creating a supportive environment for candidates to share authentically.

Leveraging Interview Insights for Development

Burton speaks that there is always a broken aspect to the interview process in most companies. Either it is undervalued or underused. He emphasizes the missed opportunity of not leveraging interview insights for employee development, advocating for using interview data to tailor development plans and support employees’ success in their roles.

About Our Guest

Jordan Burton is an executive assessor and interviewing trainer with over 17 years of experience. He specializes in training top VC and Private Equity investors and high-growth companies on how to hire the best talent. Jordan is a co-founder of Talgo (Talent algorithm), it’s of cracking the code on getting exceptional talent into your organization. Check out Talgo on Demand by visiting talgo.io or talgo.io/tod to get first hand advice and lessons in the art and mastery of the interviewing process no matter your level. You don’t need to be an Exec. to take advantage of this resource!

Mikayla Takacs2024-04-17T02:03:03-04:00April 17, 2024|

Unleashing Potential: A Journey from Business Growth to Personal Fulfillment with Herb Cogliano

In the fast-paced world of business, success often hinges on strategy, innovation, and perseverance. In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Herb Cogliano, founder of Aspire Growth Advisors, as he navigates the realms of physical challenge and business growth with equal vigor.

Applying Principles to Business:

Despite not being the youngest competitor, Herb embarked on the grueling Iron Man challenge with one goal in mind: to share the experience with his son. It’s a testament to the power of family bonds and shared goals in driving personal achievement. Herb’s approach to the Iron Man mirrors his philosophy in business—discipline, focus, and determination. As a seasoned consultant, he helps businesses articulate their vision, align their teams, and execute their goals with precision.

The Importance of Clarity:

Central to Herb’s methodology is the concept of clarity—a shared understanding of purpose, values, and objectives. In a world of distractions, clarity becomes the guiding force that steers organizations toward success. For Herb, success isn’t just about hitting targets—it’s about unleashing potential. Through Aspire Growth Advisors, he partners with mid-market companies to accelerate their growth and cultivate exceptional leadership.

Embracing the Journey

Herb’s journey serves as a reminder that true fulfillment comes from pushing boundaries, embracing challenges, and discovering our limitless potential.

About Our Guest

Herb Cogliano is the founder of Aspire Growth Advisors, a seasoned consultant, and a passionate advocate for personal and professional growth. With a diverse background in business consulting and endurance sports, Herb brings a unique perspective to driving business growth. Through Aspire Growth Advisors, he offers practical strategies and resources to help mid-market companies accelerate their growth and achieve lasting transformation. Herb’s mission is to inspire individuals to embrace growth, overcome challenges, and make a meaningful impact in their organizations and communities. Visit Aspire Growth Advisors to learn more about Herb’s work and explore resources for business growth and to access their Complimentary Growth Kit!

Mikayla Takacs2024-04-10T12:59:58-04:00April 10, 2024|

Unleashing the Power of Training in Marketing: Navigating the Future with AI with Ford Saeks

In today’s rapidly evolving world, where staying ahead of the curve is essential for personal and professional growth, we find ourselves at the intersection of marketing, training, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI). In this captivating conversation between seasoned experts Ford Saeks and Evan Hackel, we explore how effective training can elevate marketing efforts, drive organizational success, and navigate the transformative landscape shaped by AI.

The Foundation of Effective Training

As our discussion unfolds, Ford Saeks, a Hall of Fame speaker and serial entrepreneur with a wealth of experience spanning various industries, emphasizes the foundational importance of training. Drawing from personal experience, he underscores that training is not merely a one-time event but an ongoing process. “Training isn’t something you did. It’s something you do,” he asserts, emphasizing the continuous nature of learning and development.

Aligning Communication for Optimal Results

In the fast-paced world of marketing, effective communication is key. Our guest emphasizes the significance of aligning messaging with market needs and preferences. Whether it’s internal communication with staff or external communication with customers, the message must resonate to elicit the desired response.

The Customer-Centric Approach

Reflecting on a memorable marketing mishap, our guest underscores the importance of viewing business through the lens of the customer. Sharing an anecdote from a presentation to community bankers, he emphasizes the need to deliver on the promised value proposition. “You really need to look at your business model and your communications through the eyes of the customer,” he advises, stressing the importance of understanding and meeting customer expectations.

Embracing the Future with AI

Building upon the foundation laid by effective training, Evan Hackel, in his conversation with Ford Saeks, delves into the profound impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on various aspects of society. Both speakers emphasize the importance of continuous learning in navigating the complexities of today’s world, urging individuals and organizations to embrace AI and understand its potential.

Practical Training for Tangible Results

The discussion further explores the value of practical, actionable insights in training sessions. From keynotes to webinars, the goal is to deliver content that resonates with the audience and leaves a lasting impact. Both speakers stress the significance of effective training delivery, tailored to the needs of the audience. Keeping participants engaged is key to maximizing the impact of training sessions.

Marketing Benefits vs. Features

Finally, the conversation touches upon the importance of marketing benefits over features. This results-driven approach ensures that clients understand the value proposition and are more likely to invest in growth opportunities.

In conclusion, our exploration of training and marketing reveals a symbiotic relationship that fuels business growth, fosters customer engagement, and embraces the transformative potential of AI. By unlocking the power of effective training and embracing emerging technologies, individuals and organizations can navigate the future with confidence, innovation, and growth.

About Our Guest

Ford Saeks is more than a hall of fame keynote speaker, he’s a research-based thought leader. An engine. An expert. An idea man and marketing machine. He helps businesses not by talking at them about success, but by talking them through the steps to get there.

He invites all listeners to stay ahead in today’s rapidly evolving landscape, with a special mention of Ford’s AI training webinar: https://profitrichresults.com/ai-training a must for anyone looking to harness the power of AI.

Mikayla Takacs2024-04-03T10:26:25-04:00April 3, 2024|

Unlocking Success in Remote Staffing: Insights from CEO Rob Buffington

His name is Rob Buffington. He is the CEO of Gordian Staffing and an expert in various domains. In today’s discussion, we’ll delve into the nuances of remote staffing, training, and organizational structure.

Challenges of Training Remote Staff

In the dynamic landscape of the modern workplace, remote staffing has become a pivotal aspect of business operations. Rob kicks things off by addressing a crucial question that many training professionals grapple with: How do you effectively train remote staff and get them up to speed?

Rob shares his insights, acknowledging the inherent challenges of training individuals who aren’t physically present. “Out of sight, out of mind” is a common pitfall, but Rob emphasizes the importance of allocating time upfront to ensure a smooth onboarding process. He dispels the notion of training as a plug-and-play scenario, emphasizing the human element involved.

One of the keys to successful remote training, according to Rob, is pivoting from traditional apprenticeship models. Instead of relying on a mentor physically guiding a new employee, companies need to create comprehensive scripts, outlines, and particularly videos. Rob recommends advanced preparation, ideally weeks or months ahead of the start date.

Standardization and Consistency: Building a Healthy Company Culture

Rob delves into the necessity of adapting to a structured pedagogical approach to foster consistency in company processes. He draws parallels with historical apprenticeship models, emphasizing the need for a methodical, proactive training strategy. The gradual implementation of such an approach contributes to the standardization of operations, fostering a healthier and more predictable company culture.

Drawing from his experience, Rob underlines the importance of standardizing procedures, leading to greater consistency in output. He highlights how this approach, over time, can transform a company into a more standardized and efficient entity, comparable to the success of franchises driven by their commitment to consistency.

Navigating Remote and In-Person Dynamics in Meetings

Moving into the realm of team collaboration, the discussion turns to the challenges of conducting meetings involving both remote and in-person attendees. Rob shares his perspective, recommending a unified approach that treats all employees as part of one cohesive team. He suggests avoiding separate meetings unless absolutely necessary, promoting a sense of unity among team members, regardless of physical location.

Slicing the Gordian Knot of Staffing Challenges

The analogy of “slicing the Gordian knot” serves as a metaphor for approaching old problems with new and decisive solutions. Rob’s insights have shed light on the importance of adaptability, standardization, and effective communication in fostering a successful remote workforce.

About Our Guest

Rob Buffington, CEO of Gordian, is a leading expert in remote staffing and organizational efficiency. With a focus on training and managing remote teams, Rob is dedicated to transforming traditional practices and ensuring employees are equipped for success.

As a seasoned professional, Rob brings a wealth of experience to the table, particularly in helping small to medium-sized businesses optimize their workforce. His commitment to efficiency and innovation is inspired by historical lessons, such as the tale of Alexander the Great and the Gordian Knot.

To connect with Rob Buffington and take advantage of the free consulting offer, visit Gordian Staffing or reach out to him on LinkedIn.

Mikayla Takacs2024-01-29T17:37:04-05:00February 28, 2024|

Navigating Diversity and Equity Across Borders: Insights from Toby Mildon

Toby Mildon is on a mission to help put the right strategies in place to improve retention, innovation, productivity, profitability and so much more. In this episode of Training Unleashed, Evan Hackle and Toby have an enlightening discussion on diversity and inclusion.

Comparing Diversity Discussions: UK vs. US

The definitions of diversity, equity, and inclusion are remarkably similar in the UK and the US. Toby emphasizes the importance of all three elements for creating a fair society. Diversity includes everyone, inclusion enables full contributions, and equity emphasizes personalized approaches. Toby introduces the iceberg analogy, stating that visible characteristics represent only 10% of our diversity, while the remaining 80% consists of invisible attributes. Understanding this diversity is crucial for creating an inclusive and respectful work environment.

Impact of Bias on Decision-Making

Bias, often automatic and unintentional, significantly influences decision-making, especially in critical situations like hiring or promotions. Toby highlights the importance of being mindful, curious, and challenging assumptions to understand individuals and their strengths.

Six Signature Traits of Inclusive Leadership

Toby shares the six traits identified by Deloitte for inclusive leadership:

Curiosity: A trait essential for inclusive leaders.
Cognizance: Being aware of biases and blind spots.
Courage: Fostering honest, frank, and brave discussions.
Cultural Intelligence: Understanding and navigating different cultures.
Collaboration: Encouraging effective collaboration across teams.
Commitment: A commitment to diversity and inclusion, challenging the status quo.

Inclusive Growth: Good for Business

Toby emphasizes that diverse teams make better decisions, and McKinsey’s reports support the idea that diverse leadership teams lead to more profitable businesses. Inclusive cultures improve creativity, innovation, customer experiences, and employee retention, leading to positive business outcomes.

About Our Guest

Toby Mildon, the founder of Milton Echo Ltd., is a dedicated advocate for fostering inclusive cultures within organizations. With a wealth of experience, Toby collaborates with clients to drive positive change, improve productivity, and create environments where everyone feels valued. For more information about Toby Mildon and his work, visit Milton Echo Ltd.. Connect with Toby on LinkedIn, where he shares valuable content regularly.

Mikayla Takacs2024-01-29T17:36:23-05:00February 21, 2024|

The Transformative Power of Coaching in Career Development with Randi Roberts

Welcome to another insightful edition of Training Unleashed! Today’s episode brings us a compelling conversation between our host, Evan Hackle, and the esteemed guest, Randi Roberts, CEO of Randi Roberts Coaching. The focus of this discussion revolves around the world of coaching and its profound impact on individuals, teams, and organizational growth.

Why Coaching Matters

Evan begins the conversation by addressing a significant question: Why do some people undervalue coaching, and why isn’t it a more prominent part of the executive world? Randi expresses her belief that awareness of coaching is on the rise and emphasizes the transformative nature of coaching relationships. As someone deeply passionate about coaching, Randi emphasizes that coaching isn’t about telling people what to do; it’s about guiding them to find their own path forward.

The conversation evolves to highlight the changing landscape of coaching acceptance. Randi notes that once individuals understand the support and possibilities coaching brings, they become more open to it. Coaching, however, isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. While it may not be for everyone, those willing to engage in inner work and move forward find tremendous value in the coaching relationship.

Introducing Coaching Effectively

The discussion touches upon the crucial aspect of introducing coaching effectively within organizations. Randi and Evan share their experiences of coaching within corporate settings, highlighting the positive impact on individual and team performance. The key, they suggest, is framing coaching as an investment in personal and professional growth rather than a corrective measure.

Confidentiality in coaching engagements is a pivotal aspect that Randi emphasizes. Whether coaching is initiated by individuals or companies, setting clear objectives and maintaining confidentiality creates a safe space for clients to explore and grow.

Leadership Team Development: Nurturing High Performance

Transitioning into leadership team development, Randi underscores its essential role in organizational success. With teams constantly evolving, from forming new teams to assimilating new leaders and diagnosing team challenges, the need for ongoing development becomes apparent. Trust is identified as the foundational element, and addressing both strengths and deficits is crucial for fostering high-performance teams.

One Tip for Career Success

As the conversation concludes, Randi offers a valuable tip: If something doesn’t feel right in your career, invest time in inner work to identify the root cause. Ensuring you solve the right problem is crucial for making informed decisions about your career path.

About Our Guest

Randi Roberts shares her journey, having enjoyed two fulfilling careers—one in pharmaceuticals and the current one as a coach for the past five years. As the founder of Randi Roberts Coaching, she specializes in executive coaching, career life coaching, and leadership team development. Interested readers can explore valuable resources on her website and connect via email at [email protected].

Mikayla Takacs2024-01-29T17:35:30-05:00February 14, 2024|

The Symphony of Choices in Business and Life with Gerald Leonard

Welcome to another captivating edition of Training Unleashed. We extend our gratitude to our sponsors, C-suite TV and C-suite Radio, as without them, this show wouldn’t be possible. Today, we’re thrilled to have an extraordinary guest, Gerald Leonard, the CEO of Turnberry Premier. He’s not just your typical CEO; he’s a musician with a fascinating story that intertwines the world of music with the realm of business.

What Does Music Have to Do with Business?

Evan poses a question that sets the tone for the discussion: “Gerald, what does music have to do with business?” Gerald responds with a profound connection between his musical journey, starting at the age of ten, and the valuable lessons he’s applied throughout his career.

“As a musician, you have to practice to get better,” Gerald explains. “You have to practice to learn your instrument and master that skill.” Drawing parallels to the business world, he emphasizes the importance of CEOs focusing on and mastering the essential skills required for their roles.

The Art of Learning and Seeking Guidance

Reflecting on his early years, Gerald shares a pivotal lesson from his childhood. Recognizing his limitations and the need for guidance, he hired his first coach at the age of twelve. This experience taught him the value of seeking mentorship, a principle that carried forward into his professional life.

“I realized I could only go so far by myself, so I needed a coach,” he recounts. This early lesson of seeking support and mentorship shaped his approach to continuous learning and improvement.

The Dance of Collaboration: Lessons from Playing Together

Gerald draws parallels between playing music and working in a business environment, emphasizing the importance of listening. “Just the art of listening is critical in business,” he notes. Musicians learn to listen, understand, and blend their contributions to create a harmonious performance.

“As a CEO, my job is to surrender and lead by example, providing the support everyone needs,” Gerald states. These principles of collaboration and support were instilled in him during his musical journey and are now integral to his leadership philosophy.

How to Find a Mentor: Gerald’s Advice

In response to Evan’s query about finding a mentor, Gerald shares his personal approach. He emphasizes the importance of seeking mentors with a track record of success in areas aligned with one’s goals. Even if you haven’t met them personally, mentors can influence and guide through their works, be it books, online programs, or workshops.

Connecting with Gerald

For those intrigued by Gerald’s insights and keen to explore more, you can connect with him on LinkedIn or visit the Productivity Intelligence Institute website for valuable resources, including downloadable materials on goal setting and project management.

Parting Wisdom: The Pomodoro Technique

As a parting tip, Gerald encourages adopting the Pomodoro Technique—working in short intervals with breaks in between. This technique enhances productivity and allows the mind to refresh, resulting in more focused and efficient work.

Mikayla Takacs2024-01-29T17:34:37-05:00February 7, 2024|

Navigating the Future of Learning: Insights from Vena Sterling

This episode features a thought-provoking conversation with Vena Sterling, a prominent figure from the Leadership Research Institute. We delve into the future of learning, leadership, and the importance of an entrepreneurial mindset in today’s corporate landscape.

Understanding the Present: The Future of Learning Today

In this episode, Vena Sterling shares her insights into the current state of learning and work. According to Vena, we’re in a state of perpetual change, and returning to the way things were before is not an option. The workforce is divided between those who thrive in remote work and those eager to return to the office. Leaders face the challenge of navigating this diversity and deciding on a clear direction for their organizations. Whether it’s fully virtual, in-person, or a hybrid model, the key is making a conscious decision and communicating the “why” behind it.

Taking a Stand: Companies’ Approach to Hybrid Working

Vena emphasizes the importance of companies “picking a side” when it comes to their approach—be it fully virtual, in-person, or hybrid. Making a clear choice and communicating the “why” behind it is crucial for fostering alignment and reducing ambiguity. While not everyone may agree, clarity prevents inconsistencies and fosters a sense of purpose within the organization.

Work-Life Integration Challenges: Maintaining a Healthy Balance

The continuous integration of work into personal lives poses challenges, and Vena emphasizes the need to be mindful of this dynamic. Establishing boundaries and promoting psychological safety within teams is crucial. Leaders play a significant role in creating an environment where individuals feel comfortable expressing their needs, and organizations need to actively support well-being initiatives. Vena addresses the challenges of overworking and the increasing integration of work into personal lives. Establishing boundaries and recognizing the value of flexibility, whether in a remote or in-person setting, is vital. Vena advises individuals to master their calendars, starting with personal priorities, to create a balance between work and personal life.

Connecting with Vena Sterling and a Special Offer

The Leadership Research Institute, or LRI, has been serving clients for over 40 years, specializing in leadership development and research. Vena primarily works with women leaders and entrepreneurs, providing assessments and transformative experiences. Listeners can connect with her through the Leadership Research Institute website, www.leadershipresearchinstitute.com, or on LinkedIn, where she regularly shares insights and engages in discussions on leadership and learning.

As a special offer for Training Unleashed listeners, Vena has graciously provided a discount code for any leadership assessments. Simply use the code “TRAININGUNLEASHED” at checkout on the Leadership Research Institute website to unlock this exclusive offer.

About Our Guest

Vena Sterling is a respected figure in the field of leadership development and research. With a wealth of experience spanning over several decades, Vena has been a driving force behind the success of the Leadership Research Institute (LRI). Specializing in leadership development and research, Vena primarily works with women leaders and entrepreneurs, providing assessments and transformative experiences. Her expertise lies in guiding individuals and organizations towards effective leadership strategies, fostering growth and innovation.

Mikayla Takacs2024-01-29T17:33:41-05:00January 31, 2024|

Mastering the Art of Leadership: A Conversation with Chad Brown

Chad is an Associate Partner at Take New Ground and the host of The Naked Leadership Podcast with the founding partners of TNG (Take New Ground). In this episode, Evan takes a deep dive into the world of leadership with our special guest, Chad Brown. With a wealth of experience and insights, Chad is here to share his perspectives on what it takes to be an exceptional leader.

Defining Leadership

At the heart of this episode is Chad’s definition of leadership – an art form that involves inspiring and empowering others. Drawing from his diverse background and extensive leadership roles, Chad sets the stage for a conversation that goes beyond conventional leadership norms. Evan delves into the qualities that make a great leader, exploring authenticity, empathy, and adaptability with Chad. According to Chad, titles and authority don’t define leadership; instead, it’s about influence, service, and creating a culture of collaboration. The discussion serves as a guide for both emerging and experienced leaders, offering insights into what truly matters in leadership.

Navigating Challenges: Lessons from Chad’s Journey:

One of the most engaging parts of the episode is when Chad shares a significant leadership challenge he faced – leading a team through a major organizational change. The transparency, resilience, and adaptability required during this period provided invaluable lessons that every leader can learn from.

Advice for Aspiring Leaders:

For our aspiring leaders, Chad offers practical advice based on his journey. Continuous learning, embracing challenges, and being open to feedback are key components that Chad believes can contribute to a fulfilling and successful leadership journey.

About Our Guest

Chad Brown is a leadership engagement expert. He coaches executives and entrepreneurs in the art and science of leadership for themselves, their teams, and clients to create new, unprecedented results and experience fulfillment in their work. He thrives in extreme environments and finds comfort in difficult conversations. Over the last 5 years, Chad has trained and developed leaders at globally recognized brands like Lulu Lemon, and Ironclad Document Services along with many burgeoning start-ups.

Mikayla Takacs2024-03-21T13:53:32-04:00January 24, 2024|

Navigating the Modern Job Hunt: Insights from Lori Wallace

Welcome, to another engaging episode of “Training Unleashed” with your host, Evan Hackel. In this episode, Evan sits down with Lori Wallace, the founder of Career Ecology – a hub spot for Work-Life Empowerment and explores innovative perspectives on the workplace. Lori’s unique approach to career transitions and authentic relating adds a refreshing touch to the job hunting discussion.

The Modern-Day Hero Journey

Evan kicks off the conversation by delving into Lori’s concept of the “modern-day hero journey.” According to Lori, career transitions can feel like an initiation into the unknown, akin to a hero’s journey. Individuals, whether seasoned CEOs or recent graduates, often grapple with feelings of being an outcast, questioning their value, and facing uncertainties in their professional journey.

Shifting Trends in Job Hunting

The conversation shifts to the evolving landscape of job hunting, comparing the pre-pandemic era to the present. Lori notes a growing emphasis on authentic relating and genuine communication. In the pre-pandemic era, interviews were typically in person, laborious, and lacked the chance for authentic connections. Post-pandemic, with virtual touchpoints, there’s an opportunity for a more authentic exchange, akin to a speed-dating experience.

Authentic Relating in Interviews

Lori introduces the concept of “authentic relating” in interviews, emphasizing a shift from performance-oriented messaging to a service-oriented approach. She encourages individuals to express themselves authentically without succumbing to the pressure of competition. By interviewing from a place of service, candidates can establish a genuine connection with the interviewer, creating a more meaningful dialogue.

Generational Diversity

The conversation takes a turn towards hiring strategies, particularly concerning different generations in the workforce. Lori advocates for diversity and cooperation as essential elements in hiring. She stresses the significance of embracing diverse perspectives to create a dynamic and adaptable work environment. Evan concurs, highlighting the positive impact of diverse teams on innovation and business success.

Gen Z in the Workplace

Evan and Lori discuss the unique characteristics of Generation Z in the workplace. Lori underscores the importance of viewing generations through the lens of different personalities rather than age. She encourages hiring managers to consider personality types and diverse perspectives, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment.

Ecology Philosophy

Lori explains the inspiration behind her company, Career Ecology, drawing parallels with the principles of biomimicry. She emphasizes the need for individuals to authentically integrate into their professional environments, maintaining balance and adapting to changes. Career Ecology aims to empower individuals during career transitions, shifting the narrative from “outplacement” to “empowerment.”

About our Guest

Lori Wallace has mentored job seekers for over twenty years as the owner of her own search agency where she’s matched prominent hospital systems like
Cedars Sinai, Kaiser Permanente, and Sutter Health to skilled and passionate professionals ranging from CEO to Lab Assistant.

Special offers

Join Lori every Tuesday on Zoom for open discussions and expert guidance on career empowerment. Or check out her book “Way of the Monarch,” her Hero’s Journey book that offers a four-month experiential program. She extends a generous offer to listeners, providing access to the first chapter and a 10% discount on Career Ecology for Unleashed !

Mikayla Takacs2024-01-16T11:14:37-05:00January 11, 2024|