The Learn-It-All Podcast

What if everything you know about sales is about to be turned on its head? In this high-energy episode, host Damon Lembi sits down with legendary sales trainer Greg Bennett to reveal why most pipelines (and salespeople) are headed for extinction in the age of AI. Greg breaks down his signature “Ugly Pond” concept—embracing uncomfortable truths early to build trust, not just chase maybes—and shares why mini steps are the real secret to sales momentum. From the destructive dance between “hopeless romantic” sellers and ninja-level buyers, to the pressure AI will put on lazy pipelines, Greg pulls no punches. Packed with real stories, actionable frameworks, and hard-won wisdom, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone who wants to stay ahead as trust, outcomes, and human connection become the ultimate differentiators in sales. Whether you lead a team, carry a quota, or just want to future-proof your career, you’ll leave motivated (and equipped) to trade wishful thinking for real results—one “mini step” and honest conversation at a time. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why selling services is dead—and the new playbook is all about selling outcomes. What the “Ugly Pond” is, and how embracing “no” early unclogs your pipeline and builds trust faster. How AI is exposing lazy salespeople and forcing a new era of transparency and specificity. The powerful psychology behind the dysfunctional dance between buyers and sellers. The magic of “mini steps”: breaking the sales process into visible, mutual-commitment wins that build confidence, progress, and clarity. How to build instant credibility by putting client outcomes first, not product features.  Timestamps: 00:00 – Don’t talk services, talk outcomes: building instant trust 01:17 – The “Ugly Pond” origin: Saying the uncomfortable truth in sales 05:22 – Why facing “no” is the key to real pipeline health 09:24 – The sales dance: Why buyers and sellers deceive each other 11:00 – How AI will crush average salespeople and fake pipelines 15:11 – Building trust fast: Arrive with value for the client 16:28 – Features, benefits, and the power of client-outcome storytelling 20:00 – Hyper-relevance: Why vertical-specific prospecting wins 21:11 – Introducing mini steps: Making invisible sales processes visible 29:52 – Mini steps in action: Why mutual commitments matter 33:17 – Flushing the pipeline: When to pivot, when to press for “no” 35:41 – The “zero to ten” flush: How Greg gets prospects to name the truth 43:47 – Management’s real job: Owning the pipeline and coaching for reality 46:56 – What a good sales day looks like (and why new reps need clarity) 48:45 – Why fundamental sales skills matter more than new tricks 49:16 – A classic San Francisco story with Damon’s father and a surprise celebrity proposal 52:44 – Where to find Greg’s Ugly Pond course and connect for more help About Greg Bennett Greg Bennett founded his own sales coaching and consulting firm in 1987, building a career grounded in psychology and human behavior. He’s trained organizations of all sizes—from large, medium and small sales organizations, to national consulting firms, to Fortune 500 giants. His client list also includes over 200 pro and collegiate sports teams, including the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL.  Greg is also the author of four books, including Consultative Closing and Make More Donuts.  He officially retired from full-time speaking and consulting in January of 2025, and is now offering occasional webinars, an online program called, "The Power of NO", as well as select 1-on-1 coaching engagements. Resources & Mentions: Greg Bennett on LinkedIn The Ugly Pond website & course – Greg Bennett’s training and resources Consultative Closing - https://a.co/d/ftiKpzj  The Challenger Sale book - https://a.co/d/2hJwDWS  “Make More Donuts” – https://a.co/d/d4iou66   Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Some of the best leadership lessons don’t come from the boardroom—they come from the ball field and bedtime stories. On this special episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, the tables turn as Dr. Mickey Fitch Collins interviews Damon Lembi—bestselling author, CEO, and father—about his newest project: a children’s book inspired by his leadership bestsellers, The Learn-It-All Leader for Kids. Together, they break down why instilling curiosity, humility, and resilience in the next generation matters just as much as any corporate training. They dig into the creative process of translating adult leadership principles for young readers, how to parent (and lead) in a way that prioritizes effort over outcomes, and why modeling “learn-it-all” behavior starts at home. Filled with honest stories, actionable insights, and a few heartfelt moments, this episode is for anyone—parent, coach, educator, or leader—who wants to shape kids (and themselves) into lifelong learners. In this episode, you’ll learn: The big leadership lessons behind The Learn-It-All Leader for Kids—and why they matter as much to adults as to children What makes kids natural “learn-it-alls,” and how parents and leaders can keep their curiosity alive instead of stifling it How writing a leadership children’s book fundamentally differs from writing for adults (and what surprised Damon most in the process) Tips for modeling open, adaptive leadership at home and at work—even when you don’t have all the answers The role of symbols (like the coach’s hat) and storytelling in teaching real-world leadership skills to the next generation How anybody—not just parents—can use this book to nurture learning, inclusion, and growth among young people  Timestamps 00:00 – Damon on kids, curiosity, and learning by example 00:32 – Mickey Fitch Collins takes over as host; Damon’s introduction 01:17 – Why Damon wrote a children’s book—and who it’s for 01:57 – Main takeaways for kids, parents, and families from the book 02:46 – The story summary: Pandas vs. Oaks, winning and self-discovery 04:06 – Adapting leadership lessons for kids (and surprising writing challenges) 05:21 – Differences and similarities between writing for adults vs. kids 06:46 – How Damon sees himself in his own characters (Noah vs. Lucy) 08:51 – The dangers of perfectionism; why effort is more important than results 10:49 – Modeling leadership at home—lessons from Damon’s parents 11:57 – The “coach’s hat” as a symbol of shared leadership 12:55 – Helping kids shift from know-it-alls to learn-it-alls 14:58 – Inclusion, humility, and fighting against bullying in childhood 15:50 – How Mickey’s own kids related to the book’s characters 17:14 – What’s in the book for adults without children? 18:11 – Why learning agility and adaptability matter for all future leaders 18:55 – Redefining leadership: everyone can lead from where they are 19:45 – Final thoughts: Leadership is a team sport, at home and at work 21:50 – Wrap-up and where to get the book 21:52 – Closing  About Damon Lembi Damon Lembi is a 2x bestselling author, host of The Learn-It-All Podcast, and CEO of Learnit—a live learning platform that has helped over 2 million people grow. Drawing on his experiences as an athlete, executive, and father, Damon brings a unique perspective to leadership, culture, and continuous growth. In his latest children’s book, The Learn-It-All Leader for Kids, he distills decades of practical leadership insights for the next generation, empowering young readers (and their adults) to embrace curiosity, courage, and learning at any age.   Resources & Mentions The Learn-It-All Leader for Kids (Pre-order Here) The Learn-It-All Leader by Damon Lembi Learnit Lounge Podcast, hosted by Mickey Fitch Collins Damon’s LinkedIn Learnit website  Podcast Contact:Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Winning teams don’t just adapt to change—they lead with curiosity, intentionality, and a human touch. In this insightful debut episode, host Damon Lembi welcomes Manar Morales, author of The Flexibility Paradigm and a leading voice on flexible work, to unpack what it really takes for organizations to thrive in a post-pandemic world. Together, they challenge common myths about remote work, explore the full spectrum of workplace flexibility, and lay out a practical, customizable roadmap for building inclusive, high-performing cultures—no matter where your people are. With stories, frameworks, and actionable tools, this conversation is a must-listen for leaders, HR pros, and anyone rethinking what “work” should look like now and in the future. From the pitfalls of “presenteeism” to choreographing meaningful remote connections, this episode reveals why flexible work is a business imperative—and how to do it well. In this episode, you’ll learn: What holistic flexibility really means: Manar explains why flexible work is much more than just hybrid or remote, highlighting a range of options that go beyond location, including reduced hours, job sharing, and schedule tweaking. The Flex + Success Framework: Unpack Manar’s 5R model for designing and sustaining flexible work cultures, with actionable steps for reflection, redesign, and reinforcement. How to overcome common leadership pitfalls: Explore how to avoid “proximity bias” and ensure your high performers aren’t overlooked just because they work remotely. The importance of intentional connection: Learn strategies for building real relationships and culture in a hybrid world—including “choreographed connections” and smart use of technology. How to adapt and measure: Discover why flexibility needs ongoing iteration, and practical ways to collect and act on feedback across generations and roles. Future-proofing with AI and adaptability: Hear why openness to technology and continuous learning are critical, and how to balance tradition with innovation for lasting organizational health.  Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction: Flexibility vs. presenteeism 01:20 – Why “holistic” flexibility matters for organizations 03:04 – Beyond hybrid: Full spectrum of flexible work options 04:43 – Making flexibility a win-win for companies and talent 07:46 – Covid’s legacy and the “forgetting curve” 09:18 – Human-centered organizations and the power of belonging 10:56 – Self-audit: Who gets the best of you? 11:06 – Are companies sliding back into old habits? 13:12 – Why the office can be valuable—if it’s intentional 14:58 – Proximity bias: Avoiding hidden favoritism 17:58 – Measuring ROI and ROE (Return on Experience) in flexible work 21:27 – Mastering hybrid and asynchronous meetings 23:24 – Skills for connecting, collaborating, and boundary setting 26:36 – The 5R Flex + Success Framework, chapter by chapter 33:18 – Generational challenges and leading with preference vs. proof 36:10 – The impact and inevitability of AI 38:24 – How generations can learn from each other 40:57 – Can remote employees really become leaders? 42:16 – Case study: Success story from Sol Ewing law firm 46:00 – Why and how to collect feedback from all levels 50:59 – Choreographed connections and building remote culture 52:35 – About the Diversity & Flexibility Alliance  About Manar Morales Manar Morales is the founder and CEO of the Diversity & Flexibility Alliance and the author of The Flexibility Paradigm. Since 2006, she has been a passionate advocate for workplace flexibility, helping organizations design sustainable, human-centered cultures that empower both people and business. Her work spans decades of advising companies on flexible work, inclusion, and well-being—combining rigorous research with real-world strategies. Manar believes that intentional flexibility isn’t just a perk—it’s a critical advantage for attracting, retaining, and growing talent in the modern workplace.  Resources & Mentions: The Flexibility Paradigm (Book) by Manar Morales Diversity & Flexibility Alliance Keith Ferrazzi’s book: Never Lead Alone Manar Morales on LinkedIn Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Winning decisions aren’t made by spreadsheets—they’re forged in the imperfect art of judgment, humility, and learning from mistakes. In this episode, Damon sits down with Rob Duboff, co-founder of Hawk Partners and longtime instructor of decision-making at Harvard Extension School, for a masterclass on the mysteries of effective leadership and organizational success. Rob pulls back the curtain on why most choices in business and life aren’t neatly solvable puzzles, but open-ended mysteries—shaped by bias, culture, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. The pair break down why healthy conflict fuels great companies, how AI is transforming decision-making, and the science behind trusting your gut. Learn tools for fighting confirmation bias, the value of decision journals, and why the best leaders never stop learning. From boardrooms to everyday life, this episode gives you the playbook for making better choices, building healthier teams, and turning failures into breakthroughs. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why most decisions in life and business are “mysteries”—not puzzles with a single answer—and how to navigate them The impact of behavioral economics and cognitive biases like confirmation bias and anchoring on leaders’ choices How to use “decision journals,” healthy dissent, and pilot tests to strengthen decision quality and organizational culture Strategies for integrating AI as a thought partner (not thought leader) in decision-making—without abdicating human judgment The secret to building a thriving culture: hiring for values, fostering autonomy, and leveraging healthy friction among co-founders Why decision-making and financial literacy should be taught in high school—and how lifelong learning is the real leadership edge  Timestamps: 00:01 – The myth of the immortal corporation & why openness fuels lasting businesses 00:58 – Meet Rob Duboff: co-founder, strategist, and Harvard decision-making instructor 01:18 – Decisions as mysteries vs. puzzles 02:53 – The trouble with “spreadsheet” decision-making and the power of personal judgment 04:21 – Why everyone needs decision-making courses 05:41 – What’s changed in decision-making over the last decade 07:22 – Kahneman, Tversky, and the rise of behavioral economics 10:01 – The danger of overconfidence and the pitfalls of memory 11:26 – How marketers use behavioral insights to shape peak experiences 12:06 – Yes-men, open conflict, and organizational survival 13:15 – Preparing for AI disruption in business strategy 16:30 – Using AI as a thought partner, not decision-maker 19:09 – How AI can help bust confirmation bias 22:14 – Anchoring, priming, and what System 1 thinking means for leaders 23:03 – Gut vs. data: blending intuition with facts for big decisions 26:31 – Learning from bad decisions: The power of decision journals 33:27 – How healthy conflict builds stronger companies 39:38 – Using pilot tests to de-risk organizational and hiring choices 43:44 – Hiring for culture: questions and signals that matter 46:27 – Why values and curiosity outweigh fancy degrees 51:42 – Why decision-making should be a required high school course 55:10 – The power of single-minded brand focus in a noisy world 56:47 – How to connect with Rob Duboff and join the conversation  About Rob Duboff Rob Duboff is the co-founder of Hawk Partners, a premier marketing strategy and research consultancy, and a longtime faculty member at Harvard University Extension School, where he teaches decision-making to executive and graduate students. Over a career spanning multiple decades, Rob has been a thought leader in marketing strategy, a trusted advisor to Fortune 500 clients, and an early advocate of integrating behavioral economics into business practice. Passionate about building healthy organizational cultures, he’s helped companies turn the science (and art) of decision-making into a competitive edge. Resources & Mentions: Hawk Partners Website Rob Duboff on LinkedIn Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman Blink by Malcolm Gladwell The Undoing Project by Michael Lewis Pre-Suasion by Robert Cialdini Dan Ariely, Behavioral Economics Peter Drucker Annie Duke’s books: Thinking in Bets, How to Decide Farnam Street: Decision Journals Robert Cialdini on Influence  Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

If you’ve ever felt held back by self-doubt or wanted to unleash your voice, this energizing episode is for you. Host Damon Lembi sits down with Jonny Pardoe, international podcast host and men’s mental health advocate, to break down the real journey from self-criticism to self-confidence—and how podcasting can transform both your mindset and your leadership presence. Jonny brings soulful honesty about his own struggles and shares the simple-but-powerful systems he’s used to build one of the world’s top self-esteem shows, with over 3.3 million downloads. Get a masterclass in launching (and growing) your own podcast, building self-belief, and beating the traps of overthinking. Whether you’re a leader wanting to speak with more impact, or someone who’s ready to find their voice, Jonny’s practical tips will help you step up, take action, and serve a wider audience—starting today. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why taking action—no matter how imperfect—is the real key to building confidence How to break out of “paralysis mode” and reclaim your self-esteem (with Jonny’s go-to tools for when you get stuck) Jonny’s fast-track formula for launching a successful podcast, from finding your driver to nailing your hook Why role models and mentors matter—and how to “borrow” their mindsets without falling into the comparison trap The secrets behind Jonny’s podcasting growth: consistency, clarity, and listener-first thinking Quick mindset routines (like “the King Hour”) to boost daily self-talk and leadership energy  Timestamps: 00:00 – Charisma, self-drive, and the power of role models 01:25 – Jonny’s journey: From self-doubt to leading a top confidence podcast 04:09 – Revisiting the cringe (and pride) of the very first episode 06:44 – Overcoming analysis paralysis: Why action beats thinking 08:50 – When self-esteem hits rock bottom—and how Jonny bounced back 11:55 – Digging deep: How to create drive for lasting change 13:03 – The right way to “role model” (without losing yourself) 17:03 – Jonny’s definitions: Self-esteem vs. confidence 19:00 – How to reprogram toxic self-talk (with daily systems) 22:33 – Podcasting for therapy or for impact? Jonny’s honest start 24:18 – Advice for leaders: How (and why) anyone can begin podcasting 27:40 – Who can be a podcaster? Why your story matters 30:55 – How podcasting leveled up Jonny’s leadership and communication skills 33:16 – Three simple success tips for growing your podcast audience 38:56 – The crucial value of a strong episode “hook” 39:54 – Getting guests to actually share your episode 43:07 – Solo versus interview episodes: What gets more traction? 44:40 – Should you do video and audio? Jonny’s recommendation 45:04 – The biggest self-esteem lesson Jonny has learned (and his final podcasting tip) 48:42 – Where to find Jonny online  About Jonny PardoeJonny Pardoe is the host of the Self Esteem and Confidence Mindset podcast, with over 3.3 million downloads and a loyal global audience. An advocate for men’s mental health, Jonny is known for his transparent approach to building self-esteem, sharing both his struggles and successes since launching the show in 2019. He combines his background in project management and sales with real-life personal growth tools, helping thousands find their voice and lead with more authenticity. As a podcast coach, Jonny empowers others to launch, grow, and own their stories—proving anyone can reach a global audience. Resources & Mentions: Jonny Pardoe’s Instagram Jonny Pardoe on LinkedIn Jonny’s podcast: Self Esteem and Confidence Mindset Tom Webster’s book: The Audience is Listening  Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Negotiation isn’t about squeezing the most out of your opponent—it’s about solving problems and building relationships that last.  In this powerful episode, Damon sits down with Stan Christensen—Stanford Lecturer, former international mediator, and host of the podcast All Things Negotiation. Stan shares riveting stories from negotiating with guerrilla leaders in Colombia and mediating strikes in Chile, offering a fresh perspective: the best negotiators aren’t tactical hardballers, but creative, open-minded problem solvers. Drawing on decades of high-stakes experience and a legendary negotiation framework, Stan reveals why preparation, curiosity, and long-term thinking consistently win out over one-off tactics. Whether you’re dealing with a hostage taker, a procurement team, or your own spouse, this episode brims with real-world strategies and memorable lessons that anyone can use to get better outcomes—in their job, their family, and their life. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why most people approach negotiation the wrong way—and why it’s time to ditch tactical “win/lose” thinking The must-have negotiation framework from Getting to Yes—and how to actually use it How to prep for a salary or job negotiation using the principles of alternatives and objective criteria What hostage takers, procurement teams, and spouses all have in common (and how to negotiate with each) How culture, emotion, and relationships dramatically change negotiation dynamics—and what to do about it Why the most important negotiation skill is shifting from “tell” to “learn”—and the simple mindset shift that changes everything Timestamps: 00:00 – Stan’s golden rule: “Negotiate for the 99%, not the 1%” 01:20 – Why tactics can backfire—and negotiation is rarely one-off 02:02 – How Stan became a negotiation expert (from Harvard to hostage mediation) 03:26 – Stories from negotiating with guerrilla leaders in Colombia 04:51 – Why “relationship management” is the real secret to success 05:41 – Can anyone become a great negotiator? Innate skill vs. learned ability 06:52 – Case study: Helping an underdog labor union in Chile 10:59 – Hostage takers: Why listening is the most powerful negotiation tool 12:45 – How to uncover what the other side really wants 14:00 – The 7 elements of the Stanford/Harvard negotiation framework 17:15 – Salary negotiation tips: Preparation, alternatives, and criteria 20:04 – How (not) to frame a “fairness” argument at work 21:14 – When do tactics ever work? The 1% rule and car negotiation 25:43 – What to do when you’ve “burned” someone in a negotiation 27:03 – How culture affects negotiation—stories from Mexico, Indonesia, and Mauritania 32:38 – Not everything’s negotiable: Israel/Palestine case study 34:00 – Negotiation as creative problem solving 41:43 – Dealing with emotions and pausing in heated negotiations 43:07 – Stan’s toughest deals? Family negotiations 46:37 – Mediation story: How finding one point of common ground changed everything 49:38 – The #1 negotiation skill: Check your assumptions, stay curious 52:37 – Stan’s top negotiation movies and book recommendations 53:57 – Stan’s final mindshift: How “shifting to a learning stance” changes negotiation outcomes About Stan Christensen Stan Christensen is a globally recognized negotiation expert, mediator, and educator. For over two decades, he has taught the acclaimed business negotiation course at Stanford University, drawing on his real-world experience as a former hostage negotiator, international mediator, and advisor to organizations and governments in 75+ countries. Stan is the host of the All Things Negotiation podcast, where he brings negotiation stories and strategies to leaders around the world.  Resources & Mentions Stan Christensen on LinkedIn  All Things Negotiation Podcast Getting To Yes by Roger Fisher and William Ury Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert Cialdini Difficult Conversations by Douglas Stone, Bruce Patton, Sheila Heen Crucial Conversations by Joseph Grenny et al. 12 Angry Men—Film (Henry Fonda version) Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Winning leaders aren’t defined by charisma or complexity—they’re defined by consistent, simple habits. In this practical solo episode, Damon Lembi reveals the five most impactful daily leadership habits he’s seen in world-class leaders and top-performing organizations. Drawing from his own experience as CEO, plus interviews with leaders like Tom Mendoza and Doug Conant, Damon shares actionable, no-fluff rituals to boost your trust, focus, and connection with your team. Whether you’re new to leadership or seeking to level up, you’ll walk away with tools you can use immediately—including strategies to strengthen loyalty, reduce burnout, and make every conversation count. Stay tuned to the end for Damon’s leadership challenge and a generous offer for free live learning to accelerate your growth.  In this episode, you’ll learn: How to set your “Big Three” priorities and avoid being overwhelmed by daily chaos The relationship-building power of starting conversations with something personal Why asking “and what else?” leads to deeper trust and better communication How a “gratitude quota” transforms morale—and two leaders who reached thousands with this habit The hidden cost of weekend emails, and how to protect your team from burnout Damon’s challenge: implement all five habits this week and track your team’s response Access free live learning resources to grow your leadership skills instantly  Timestamps: 00:00 – Why great leadership is built on a few simple habits 00:40 – Habit 1: Set your “Big 3” priorities every morning 01:30 – Habit 2: Start conversations with something personal 02:10 – Habit 3: End conversations with “What else is on your mind?” 02:55 – The power of questions from The Coaching Habit 03:30 – Habit 4: Set and hit a gratitude quota 04:00 – Doug Conant’s 30,000 thank-you notes example 04:30 – Public recognition and the OC Tanner stat 05:10 – Habit 5: Stop sending weekend emails (and why) 06:00 – Harvard Business Review on after-hours stress 06:30 – Recap of all 5 habits and how they build trust 07:15 – Damon’s weekly challenge: Try them all, track the impact 08:00 – Free gift: 45 days of Learnit classes + book plug 08:30 – Final takeaway: Consistency builds credibility  About Damon Lembi Damon Lembi is a 2x bestselling author, the host of The Learn-It-All Podcast, and CEO of Learnit – a live learning platform that has upskilled over 2 million people. Drawing from his prior baseball career, Damon brings an athlete’s perspective to leadership. Through his journey, he has gained invaluable insights into what helps organizations grow, how great leaders learn, and why learn-it-all companies outpace their competitors every time.  Resources & Mentions: Damon LinkedIn Learnit  The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier (book link) Gallup Workplace Report (Gallup website) Tom Mendoza profile (Tom Mendoza LinkedIn) Doug Conant profile (Doug Conant LinkedIn) The Learn-It-All Leader: Mindset, Traits, and Tools (book link) Good Decisions Equal Success (book link)   Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

What happens when you lead with humility, consistency, and care—instead of ego? In this uplifting and candid episode, Damon sits down with Peter Bissonnette, the former president of Shaw Communications and author of Count on Me. Peter pulls back the curtain on his remarkable leadership journey, from seminary days and military service to helming a $5.5B telecom powerhouse. Together, they explore the habits and values that shaped Shaw’s exceptional culture, why empathy and fairness matter most, and how leaders can be “counted on”—no matter their background. Jam-packed with real stories, hard-won tools, and lessons from both the boardroom and the bandstand, this episode is a blueprint for anyone looking to become a leader people believe in. Get ready to rethink what makes a lasting legacy—not just for companies, but for families—through the power of values-driven leadership. In this episode, you’ll learn: The culture-building power of shining a light on others, not yourself How Peter’s “Good Shepherd” philosophy (inspired by seminary days) became the foundation of his leadership style What it means to truly be “counted on”—and how personal adversity shaped Peter’s drive and fairness meter Practical tools for overcoming imposter syndrome and building self-belief, including the science of affirmations and visualization Why fit trumps credentials during hiring, and how to handle mis-hires with candor Inside Peter’s “leadership toolbox”—relationship-building, chameleon skills, candor, and the art of constructive feedback Behind-the-scenes negotiation stories, including a $2B Wall Street face-off and the lessons of win-win bargaining How music, photography, and creative passions make you a better leader and problem solver Tangible strategies to boost employee engagement—and transform dysfunction into unity Why leaders should be hero creators, not the heroes themselves Timestamps: 00:00 – The power of focusing on the good in others 00:24 – Damon introduces Peter Bissonnette and episode themes 01:38 – How Shaw’s “we company” values fueled its success 03:07 – First meeting with founder J.R. Shaw 04:30 – The legacy-driven origins of Count on Me 08:37 – Seminary days and the “Good Shepherd” approach to leadership 11:09 – Peter’s tough childhood and the drive to be “counted on” 15:57 – Advice for new leaders struggling with self-belief 16:26 – Affirmations, visualization, and owning your own learning 22:25 – How to handle a mis-hire (the “Dead Pillow” story) 26:33 – Building your leadership toolbox: tools and traits that matter 30:07 – How to accelerate leadership experience: Mentorship & reading 32:01 – Lessons from Wall Street: The $2B Goldman Sachs negotiation 44:29 – Taking risks, responsibility and earning founder’s trust 47:57 – Win-win negotiations, fairness, and long-term relationships 49:32 – How music and creativity fuel leadership 54:59 – The role of photography and “extra languages” in solving problems 57:32 – Transforming employee engagement at Shaw 60:08 – Listening and acting on feedback to create belonging 63:56 – Shining the spotlight and building trust-driven teams 66:18 – How Peter personally connected with Shaw’s customers 70:13 – Why Count on Me is a case study for young leaders 72:50 – Where to find Peter and his book About Peter Bissonnette Peter Bissonnette is the former president of Shaw Communications, where he helped transform the company into a national powerhouse with more than 10,000 employees and $5.5 billion in annual revenue. Known for his humility, candor, and people-first leadership, Peter’s career took him from boarding school and seminary, through military service, to leading large organizations—all without a traditional academic background. He now serves on the board of the Shaw Family Trust and is the author of Count on Me, a candid memoir and leadership case study.  Resources & Mentions: Count on Me by Peter Bissonnette Peter Bissonnette on LinkedIn Improbably Successful by Juan Silvera The Learn-It-All Leader by Damon Lembi Brian Lanier’s Learn-It-All Podcast episode Peter Bissonnette on Jonny Pardoe Podcast Shaw Communications (background info) Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Burnout isn’t just something that happens to you—it’s something we can see, understand, and actively reverse. In this eye-opening episode, Damon sits down with Michael Levitt—burnout prevention expert, speaker, and survivor—to unpack what burnout really is (hint: it’s not the same as depression), why it so often sneaks up on high performers, and how we all can make small but life-changing shifts to reclaim our energy and purpose. Michael shares his own unforgettable story of hitting rock bottom—a heart attack at age 40, job loss, even losing his house—and how it became a catalyst for helping thousands escape the burnout trap. From the real causes (spoiler: sleep and financial stress matter more than you think) to the game-changing power of boundaries and curiosity, this episode is packed with practical tools and urgent truths for anyone who wants to build a burnout-proof life and culture—whether you’re a leader, a team member, or simply feeling the weight of modern work. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why Michael Levitt believes burnout is ultimately a choice—and what that really means for your life and career. The crucial differences between burnout and clinical depression—and how to spot (and avoid) both. Michael’s personal journey through health and financial collapse, and what finally sparked his comeback. The underestimated role of sleep and nutrition in burnout prevention (plus, why boundaries are the ultimate life hack). How financial stress impacts mental and physical wellness—and step-by-step tips for regaining control. What organizations and leaders must do to break the burnout cycle—and why investing in learning (even on a shoestring) is a must. Top strategies for high performers to set boundaries and prevent being overloaded by “do more” cultures.  Timestamps: 00:00 – Michael’s heart attack at 40 and the wake-up call that followed 01:18 – Why burnout is a choice (and why that statement is controversial) 03:15 – Defining burnout vs. depression (World Health Organization lens) 05:23 – The life collapse: job loss, home, and rebuilding from zero 12:38 – Curiosity vs. victimhood: how Michael avoided blaming others 16:40 – Boundaries: Michael’s first big change post-burnout 17:22 – Main triggers: financial stress, poor nutrition, and sleep 20:00 – Why sleep is the ultimate burnout prevention tool 24:54 – Why financial pressure is behind so much burnout today 29:06 – Practical advice for dealing with debt and budgeting 35:58 – Who’s responsible for burnout at work: leadership or employees? 40:58 – Learning and development: how upskilling fights burnout 44:33 – The importance of culture, belonging, and purpose 50:49 – Setting boundaries as a top performer—before it’s too late 56:08 – How team members can communicate workload limits 58:47 – Michael’s #1 burnout tip: set your bedroom up for sleep success 1:00:40 – Recap: small, consistent changes are the burnout antidote  About Michael Levitt Michael Levitt is a globally recognized burnout expert, keynote speaker, and the founder of the Breakfast Leadership Network. Michael set out to understand stress and burnout from the inside out. Today, he coaches leaders and organizations worldwide on building burnout-proof cultures through practical boundaries, improved sleep, and powerful mindset shifts. Michael is also the author of Burnout Proof and host of the popular Breakfast Leadership Show. Resources Referenced: Michael Levitt Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeldlevitt/ Michael Levitt’s free book Burnout Proof: Claim here Dr. Herbert Freudenberger, Burnout (book): Amazon link World Health Organization—burnout definition: WHO ICD-11 Burn-out John Maxwell, The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership: Amazon link Michael Levitt on YouTube: Breakfast Leadership Network channel Connect with Michael Levitt: breakfastleadership.com Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Winning teams—and great companies—aren't built through pressure, they're built through belief and connection. In this energizing solo episode, host Damon Lembi unpacks what it really takes to become a great leader people respect too much to disappoint. Drawing on personal stories from his college baseball days and decades leading at Learnit, Damon explains why the best leaders don’t motivate through fear—but by genuinely believing in their people before they believe in themselves. If you want to foster a team culture where trust, psychological safety, and growth thrive, these actionable insights are your starting lineup. Damon shares practical tools and a quick challenge you can start using this week to build respect, accountability, and a platform for your team to shine. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why belief—not pressure—drives peak performance and lasting accountability The science behind psychological safety and why it’s essential for risk-taking and innovation Damon's “JP” story: how authentic connection from a mentor changes everything Two simple, powerful actions you can use immediately to earn real respect as a leader How to stretch your team and still have their back, even when they stumble The ultimate test of respect: Will your team give their all even when you’re not watching? Timestamps:  00:00 – The kind of leader people don’t want to disappoint 00:40 – Story: Damon’s coach JP and the Knoxville series 01:45 – Why belief—not fear—unlocked Damon’s performance 02:15 – Research from Amy Edmondson: 67% more likely to play it safe without psychological safety 02:45 – Respect can’t be demanded; it must be earned 03:15 – Learnit’s 30-year celebration: stories from employees past and present 03:45 – Leadership is about giving others the platform—not hogging the spotlight 04:00 – Two habits to earn real respect:   1. Connect beyond deadlines   2. Stretch through belief, autonomy, and support 04:45 – The 6-month test: Would your team still bring their best if you stepped away? 05:15 – Final reflection: See people. Believe in them. Give them a shot. 05:45 – Weekly challenge: Tell one person what you see in them 06:00 – Rate, review, and share if this resonated About Damon Lembi Damon Lembi is a 2x bestselling author, the host of The Learn-It-All Podcast, and CEO of Learnit – a live learning platform that has upskilled over 2 million people. Drawing from his prior baseball career, Damon brings an athlete’s perspective to leadership. Through his journey, he has gained invaluable insights into what helps organizations grow, how great leaders learn, and why learn-it-all companies outpace their competitors every time. Resources & Mentions: Learnit: Https://www.learnit.com The Learn-It-All Leader: Mindset, Traits, and Tools by Damon Lembi:  https://a.co/d/azzNKWM  Good Decisions Equals Success by Damon Lembi & Kandis Porter:  https://a.co/d/hJhnRJU  Damon Lembi LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damonlembi Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates.