The Learn-It-All Podcast

Winning in the remote world isn’t just about logging in—it’s about knowing yourself, mastering communication, and finding where you fit.  In this episode, Damon Lembi sits down with Michelle Coulson, founder of Remote Rebellion, to crack open the realities of remote and hybrid work. Michelle draws on her years as a recruiter and leader of remote teams to explore what it truly takes to thrive (or hire) in the remote-first era. From cutting through workplace distractions to the psychology of choice, Michelle and Damon address the often-overlooked challenges and opportunities facing both companies and job seekers today. Whether you’re looking to land your first remote job, level-up your virtual team, or simply want a more fulfilling work-life balance, you’ll walk away with actionable strategies, honest insights, and plenty of inspiration to support your remote journey. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why freedom of choice is the #1 motivator for remote workers (even before money) The real traits that set top performers apart in remote environments—and why structure still matters Common mistakes organizations make when “going remote” and how to set intentional policies How to stand out in an increasingly competitive remote job market—personal branding, communication hacks, and more What recruiters are really looking for in remote candidates (plus Michelle’s favorite filtering trick) Why authentic networking and feedback fuel both hiring and personal growth in a virtual world Timestamps: 00:00 – Michelle on freedom of choice and productivity 01:21 – Rethinking the work-life equation 02:55 – How the Pandemic turbocharged Remote Rebellion 03:29 – The case for office and remote: pro-choice work life 04:37 – Bad reasons companies force return-to-office 05:54 – Helping employers design meaningful in-person work 07:31 – The hardest part of running a remote-first company 08:58 – Must-have skills for remote success (communication rules!) 12:54 – Building effective team communication across cultures 16:38 – Helping late-career workers go remote 19:51 – Why remote jobs are so competitive right now 22:05 – Does remote really make people happier and more productive? 23:45 – Finding and landing remote roles: personal branding, networking 28:19 – Michelle’s filtering hack for serious applicants 30:22 – Why you shouldn’t mass-apply (and how you’re part of the problem) 33:39 – Can you become a great leader if you’ve only worked remotely? 36:44 – Michelle’s virtual remote career fair: bringing humanity back 40:24 – How Michelle helps orgs recruit for remote readiness 44:55 – Honesty about “remote-first” and setting expectations 46:22 – Who thrives in Michelle’s Remote Job Academy 49:13 – The future of remote and hybrid work 51:32 – The value of external feedback and keeping a success journal 54:29 – Where to connect with Michelle  About Michelle Coulson Michelle Coulson is the founder of Remote Rebellion, a company dedicated to empowering individuals to design their work around life—rather than the other way around. With a background in recruitment and having managed remote, cross-continental teams, Michelle specializes in helping both organizations and job seekers master remote work. Her practical, candid approach cuts through the noise, offering real-world insights on talent attraction, communication, and what it actually takes to succeed virtually. Michelle has also hosted global remote job fairs and leads her own Remote Job Academy.  Resources & Mentions Remote Rebellion website Michelle Coulson on LinkedIn Learnit: www.learnit.com Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

How would your life change if you realized your greatest power isn’t what happens to you—but how you choose to think about it? In this eye-opening episode, Damon sits down with world-renowned mental toughness coach Chris Dorris to unpack the real meaning of mental mastery. Chris shares why our states—and ultimately our lives—are shaped by the content we choose to fill our minds with. Through engaging exercises, candid stories, and actionable mantras, Chris reveals how to break free from victimhood, conquer self-doubt, and start creating your best days on purpose. Listeners learn why most of our suffering is learned—not inevitable—and why unlearning is the true path to excellence. Whether it’s overcoming imposter syndrome, rewiring how you respond to adversity, or empowering those around you to ditch the blame game, this episode is packed with the tools, mindsets, and mantras to help you close the gap between the life you have and the life you want. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why “create the state, don’t wait” is the key to lasting happiness and performance How your thoughts instantly shape your moods—and simple exercises to prove it The origins of victim mentality and how to break free from it (for yourself and others) The power of “Catch, Own, Replace”: a framework to shift from low to high-grade thinking How visualization and mental rehearsal rewires your brain for success—no matter your circumstances What the “success story folder” is, and how to use it to build belief and confidence on tough days Timestamps: 00:00 – Chris’s “Best Damn Day of My Life” ritual and the science of choosing your mood 03:56 – Real-time exercises: moving yourself across the emotional spectrum 08:58 – Why mental toughness is about unlearning and the story of “Benny and the Car Keys” 15:42 – How to catch, own, and replace sabotaging thoughts 20:44 – Visualization, neuroscience, and the POW golfer story 25:54 – Why complaining is the enemy—and what people get from victimhood 28:53 – Breaking out of the blame game: stories, strategies, and permission 33:20 – The flat tire lesson: responding to setbacks with mastery 43:20 – Creating excellence from everything—Damon’s personal story with adversity 54:38 – Why wishing on birthday candles is a waste: teaching kids to “decide” 56:24 – Recap: the habits and mantras of mental mastery 58:45 – The “Success Story Folder”: what it is and how to start yours 59:05 – How to connect with Chris and access more mental toughness tools About Chris Dorris Chris Dorris is a globally acclaimed mental toughness coach, author, and performance consultant who has dedicated his career to helping people close the gap between how life is and how they want it to be. As a coach to elite athletes, business leaders, and high-achievers, Chris’s impact has reached millions through his books, daily mental mastery tips, and engaging seminars. His actionable philosophy centers on unlearning limiting beliefs, cultivating emotional mastery, and equipping individuals to create excellence in every aspect of their lives.  Resources & Mentions Chris Dorris’s website: ChristopherDorris.com Chris Dorris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisdorris/ Daily Dose Mental Toughness Tips: ChristopherDorris.com/DD The Book of Mental Toughness Mantras by Chris Dorris: order here Byron Katie’s Work: thework.com Steve Chandler Audio on Victim vs. Ownership Mindset: Listen here Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Winning sales teams in today’s world aren’t dialing for dollars—they’re building human connections and turning conversations into qualified meetings. In this high-impact episode, Damon welcomes the brilliant Timothy Hughes, CEO of DLA Ignite and pioneering author of "Social Selling," to unpack why the world’s best sellers are ditching pitches and transforming LinkedIn from a noisy sales channel into a powerhouse pipeline engine. Tim reveals how he’s helped sales development teams consistently book a meeting a day (no cold calls or spam required!), and coaches Damon—and our audience—on shifting mindsets, updating profiles the right way, and writing content that actually drives business. Whether you’re an SDR, team leader, or curious executive, this episode will change how you think about digital selling forever. From practical frameworks and benchmarked results to common pitfalls and the next frontiers of AI in sales, Tim and Damon deliver a masterclass that’s part strategy, part mindset shift, and all action. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why your LinkedIn summary title is the most powerful piece of personal branding you’ll ever write—and how to make it your “why,” not your resume. The three pillars of modern social selling: profile, network, and content—and how to optimize each one for real influence (not noise). How to turn likes and comments into real prospecting conversations, not just vanity metrics. What separates top-performing SDRs (one is booking 25 meetings/week!) from the noise—and how they use humor, gratitude, and curiosity to win. Why “connect and pitch” is dead and starting real conversations is the new sales superpower. How social selling is reshaping sales culture, boosting morale, and even helping teams fall back in love with the profession. Timestamps: 00:00 – Why bland LinkedIn profiles kill trust—and the power of human connection 00:14 – Damon introduces Timothy: Author, CEO, pioneer of social selling 01:07 – Social selling results: 1 meeting per day without cold calls or spam 02:13 – “LinkedIn isn’t a sales channel—it’s about conversations, not pitches” 03:11 – Tim’s shift from traditional sales to leading the social selling movement 04:15 – Tim’s books: the first-ever guide to social selling, and its evolution 06:01 – The “three things” every seller must get right on LinkedIn 09:20 – The summary title mistake LinkedIn trainers make (and what to do instead) 11:39 – Should you put vanity metrics (like subscribers/sales) in your profile? 12:47 – How a profile update leads to inbound leads (and surprises your network) 14:39 – Building the right network: why personalization trumps automation 16:13 – Connection rates, benchmarks, and optimizing outreach 18:39 – Creating a wide, multi-threaded influence inside target accounts 18:40 – Content that connects: why personal updates outperform corporate “brochureware” 21:00 – Human content as prospecting: turning engagement into next steps 24:44 – How to convert likes and comments into real sales conversations 26:02 – Habits of SDRs booking 25 meetings/week—the role of humor and connection 28:25 – The power of simply saying “thank you” after a new connection 29:24 – Should you ditch cold calling and spammy emails altogether? 30:26 – Why leaders must model and drive social selling for real change 32:32 – How social selling helps teams fall back in love with sales 34:59 – Overview: How Tim’s courses and coaching create true behavior change 38:46 – The 70/20/10 learning framework and making training truly stick 40:07 – One final reminder: start conversations, don’t pitch  About Timothy Hughes Timothy Hughes is the CEO and co-founder of DLA Ignite, the leader in social selling transformation. Widely regarded as the authority who literally wrote the book on social selling, Tim has spent over 25 years in B2B sales, including at companies like Oracle, before trailblazing the move to digital-first selling. He’s the author of "Social Selling: Techniques to Influence Buyers and Changemakers," now in its second edition, and works hands-on with sales teams from global enterprises to startups to turn online engagement into real business results. Connect with Tim on LinkedIn. Resources & Mentions: Social Selling: Techniques to Influence Buyers and Changemakers (Amazon) DLA Ignite (Timothy’s Company) Timothy Hughes on LinkedIn Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

What separates good leaders from great ones? In this solo episode, Damon Lembi, CEO of Learnit, reveals the five essential leadership shifts he's learned across three decades of driving organizational success. Damon lays out hard-won lessons, candid stories, and straightforward strategies to help you move from “know it all” to “learn it all”—so you can build teams that are empowered, innovative, and resilient. You’ll discover why being a hero is overrated, how to tackle tough conversations, and what it takes to truly connect with every member of your team. Plus, stick around for an exclusive gift valued at thousands of dollars to supercharge your learning journey. Whether you’re a seasoned exec or a new manager, this episode is your leadership wake-up call. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why shifting from “know it all” to “learn it all” creates a culture of innovation and psychological safety. How to stop leading as the hero and start empowering others as a hero maker. The power of stepping outside your comfort zone—and why hard conversations are essential for lasting growth. How to practice “chameleon leadership” by tailoring your approach to each person’s unique style and needs. Why speaking last in meetings unlocks better ideas and motivates your team to truly contribute. Easy, actionable steps to embed these shifts in your daily leadership routine. Timestamps: 00:00 – Great leadership isn’t about answers—it’s about humility, courage, and belief 00:35 – Preview of the 5 leadership shifts + Damon’s free gift for listeners 01:00 – Shift 1: From Know-It-All to Learn-It-All 03:00 – Shift 2: From Hero to Hero-Maker 05:15 – Shift 3: Stop Protecting Your Comfort Zone 07:15 – Shift 4: Lead How Others Want to Be Led 09:30 – Shift 5: Leaders Speak Last 12:00 – Quick recap of all 5 shifts 13:00 – Damon’s challenge: Pick 1 shift and start tomorrow 14:00 – Free offer: 45 days of live training for you + 20 teammates 14:30 – Rate, review, and stay curious 15:00 – You can’t lead better without learning better  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 Lembi LinkedIn Learnit Learn It All Leader (Book by Damon Lembi) The Learn-It-All Leader for Kids (Kids Bood by Damon Lembi) Gary Ridge episode of Learn-It-All Podcast Gary Ridge’s Book: Any Dumbass Can Do It Ethan Evans episode of Learn-It-All Podcast Learnit Free Training Offer Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Winning podcasters—and high performers of all stripes—aren’t built on luck or Hollywood backing. They’re built on resilience, vision, and a relentless drive to keep learning and trying. In this energizing episode, Damon sits down with Tony Durso, business strategist, bestselling author, and host of one of the world’s biggest podcasts, to uncover what it really takes to go from zero to 50 million downloads with no radio experience and no big media machine. Tony shares his “Vision Map” eight-step framework for driving toward any goal—plus down-to-earth stories, tactical advice, and lessons learned from interviewing elite entrepreneurs and industry icons. From why your purpose matters more than your paycheck, to tactical social media strategies, to the real secret that separates high performers from hopefuls, this episode is packed with actionable tools for anyone wanting to build something meaningful—be it a business, a podcast, or a life-changing pivot. Tony shares his mistakes, his European relationship-first mindset, and why writing down your vision might be the most powerful move you’ll ever make. To top it all off, hear how Tony pivoted from nonfiction to writing a hit fiction series—and why he believes picking up a novel might just be the recharge you need as a leader. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Tony Durso grew his podcast to 50 million downloads without a corporate media engine Why resilience (never quitting) is the true secret to long-term success The eight-step “Vision Map” framework for turning dreams into reality Why purpose—and not money—is the foundation of passion projects and sustainable careers What Tony learned from interviewing hundreds of millionaires and billionaires Tactical social media advice for maximizing your impact and avoiding common mistakes The surprising value of fiction for leader creativity, relaxation, and perspective shifts Timestamps: 00:00 – Tony Durso on the real mark of success: Never quitting 01:14 – How Tony built a podcast empire from scratch 04:22 – The art of leveraging big-name guests for audience growth 05:09 – Tony’s #1 lesson from elite entrepreneurs: perseverance 07:33 – The critical role of passion in lasting podcasting (and business) success 09:44 – Why purpose should come before profit 13:04 – Tony’s “Vision Map” framework and how it works 16:51 – Tony’s original podcasting vision—and how he wrote it into being 19:47 – Finding your true purpose (and why money should stay out of it) 23:35 – The chocolate soufflé analogy: why knowing “the words” isn’t enough 24:49 – Turning goals into actionable long-term objectives 28:23 – Which Vision Map steps matter most in hard times 29:13 – Eight steps to achievement—and why doing is everything 36:00 – Tony’s pivot to fiction: the Ion of Atlantis series 41:49 – Why fiction matters for leaders (creativity, downtime, and more) 45:18 – On discipline, character, and Tony’s favorite fictional hero 47:24 – Tony’s top piece of advice for today’s leaders and podcasters 49:59 – Where to connect with Tony (website, social, and more) About Tony Durso Tony Durso is an author, business strategist, and the host of The Tony Durso Show—one of the largest podcasts in the world, with over 50 million downloads. After decades in corporate sales, marketing, and PR, Tony built his entire media presence from scratch, booking elite entrepreneurs, authors, and business icons as guests. He’s the creator of the “Vision Map” framework and bestselling author of nonfiction and fiction books, including the acclaimed Ion of Atlantis series. Tony’s passion is helping others unlock success by going all-in on their vision, purpose, and perseverance.  Resources & Mentions: TonyDurso.com – Tony’s Website The Tony Durso Show Jordan Adler’s Beach Money  Imen of Atlantis Trilogy (Tony’s fiction series) Tony on X (Twitter) Tony on LinkedIn The 3 Critical Mistakes to Avoid on Social Media – Tony’s Free Resource Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

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.