The Learn-It-All Podcast

How can you push your organization—and yourself—past the status quo?  In this insightful episode of The Learn-It-All Leader Podcast, attorney, journalist, and tenured professor Alicia Jessop shares powerful insights from her career that highlight the importance of stepping out of comfort zones, refining your leadership skills, and driving true growth.  Learnit CEO Damon Lembi sits down with Alicia Jessop to discuss the evolution of her career, from attorney to sports journalist and professor, and the lessons she's learned about leadership, risk-taking, and storytelling along the way. Alicia left behind a comfortable law career to pursue a passion in sports media and offers listeners a fresh perspective on success. Business leaders will learn how embracing discomfort and focusing on disciplined growth can unlock their full potential, while storytelling and active listening are critical tools for connection and impact. This Episode Covers: Why leaving your comfort zone is essential for long-term growth and success. How business leaders can apply lessons from top athletes about discipline and peak performance. The power of storytelling in leadership and how to become a better storyteller. Practical tips for fostering trust and openness in your team through active listening. Insights into the evolving landscape of women's sports and leadership opportunities in that space. Strategies for leaders to support their teams' growth by asking the right questions. Alicia's personal journey and what it reveals about defining success on your own terms.   Episode Highlights:  (00:00) Introduction to Alicia Jessop – Damon introduces Alicia Jessop, attorney, sports journalist, and founder of Ruling Sports, setting the stage for a conversation on pursuing purpose. (01:20) Embracing Risk for True Growth – Alicia shares her decision to leave a comfortable corporate job to follow her passion for sports media. (05:58) Defining Success on Your Own Terms – Alicia explains why true success means growing as a person, challenging comfort, and making intentional choices. (08:45) The Power of Discipline and Role Models – Alicia reflects on lessons from elite athletes and why discipline is key to success. (10:55) Building Trust Through Listening – Alicia shares tips for building trust as a leader and interviewer by truly listening and creating safe spaces for others to open up. (14:45) Memorable Interviews and Earning Trust – Alicia recalls her challenging interview with Mike Tyson and how she gained his trust to uncover deeper insights. (20:30) Storytelling as a Tool for Connection – Alicia explains the importance of storytelling in connecting with people and shares how leaders can improve their storytelling skills. (24:00) Supporting Athletes Beyond the Game – Alicia discusses her work at Ruling Sports, helping athletes transition from their sports careers to entrepreneurial endeavors. (32:00) The Evolution of Women’s Sports – Alicia offers her perspective on the growth of women’s sports and the need for continued investment and equity. (48:00) Finding Your Life’s Purpose – Alicia encourages listeners to reflect on their legacy and take small steps toward fulfilling their true calling.  About Alicia: Alicia Jessop is a tenured professor, sports law attorney, and media entrepreneur focused on leadership, athlete well-being, and career transitions. As the founder of Ruling Sports, she empowers athletes and business leaders through storytelling, legal expertise, and tailored career strategies. She has been a prominent voice in sports media, covering major events such as the Super Bowl and NBA Finals and has written for outlets like Forbes, The Washington Post, and The Athletic, and hosts the Ruling Sports Podcast. Alicia’s work focuses on storytelling, leadership, and empowering individuals—especially athletes—through content that helps them achieve their goals both on and off the field. Resources Referenced: Alicia’s Mike Tyson Interview Alicia Jessop's Website Ruling Sports Alicia Jessop on LinkedIn The Ruling Sports Podcast Book:  Steal Like an Artist--10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative by Austin Kleon Book: Only 10s 2.0--Confront Your To-Do List and Transform Your Life by Mark J. Silverman  Podcast Contact: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Do You Need to Break Free from Society's "Success" Script? Are you following someone else's definition of success, checking boxes that society laid out for you rather than creating your own path? In this compelling episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, real estate professional and author Kayla Logue shares how she walked away from a seemingly perfect life with $900 to her name to rebuild on her own terms and ended up more successful than ever. Kayla opens up about her journey from feeling stuck and unfulfilled despite "having it all" to completely starting over during the pandemic. She discusses how journaling helped her gain clarity, the importance of taking radical responsibility for your life, and how building the right community can accelerate personal and professional growth. Her story offers valuable insights for leaders feeling trapped by expectations or seeking more authentic paths to success.  This Episode Covers: Why checking society's boxes for success often leads to feeling unfulfilled and stuck The power of radical responsibility: being the cause, problem, AND solution in your life How journaling can provide clarity and accelerate goal achievement  The "Three A's" framework: Agency, Accountability, and Authenticity Building a "starting lineup" of supportive relationships while cutting toxic connections Transforming from avoiding conflict to becoming an effective closer in sales Creating authentic connections through "old school values with new technology" The counterintuitive freedom that comes from completely starting over  Chapters: (00:00) Introduction to Kayla Logue – Damon introduces Kayla Logue, author of Always Squeezing Lemons, and they discuss her journey toward redefining her life. (02:00) Realizing the Need for Change – Kayla shares how a moment of self-reflection in 2020 led her to reassess her path and make a fresh start. (05:00) Leaving Behind Society’s Expectations – Kayla explains why she chose to step away from the “perfect life” and pursue something that felt more authentic. (08:33) Finding Clarity Through Journaling – Kayla discusses the transformative power of journaling in helping her gain clarity and set intentional goals. (12:50) Radical Responsibility – Kayla emphasizes the importance of taking full responsibility for one’s life, decisions, and happiness. (20:00) Building a Supportive Community – Kayla shares why community is crucial and how she cultivated a network of supportive people. (24:30) The “Starting Lineup” Mindset – Kayla explains her concept of a personal “starting lineup,” focusing on surrounding yourself with people who uplift and inspire. (32:18) Advice for Embracing Change – Kayla offers advice for listeners feeling stuck and shares practical steps for pursuing a life aligned with personal values. About Kayla: Kayla Logue, a dynamic seven-figure real estate producer and author of "Always Squeezing Lemons," transformed her own life's challenges into a platform for empowering others through her role as a sought-after motivational speaker and coach. After completely rebuilding her life in 2020, she achieved remarkable success before age 30, demonstrating the power of radical responsibility and authentic leadership in both business and personal development. Through her nonprofit Move Into Words, Kayla champions sustainable mental health practices and personal growth, focusing on the transformative power of journaling and community building among young professionals.    Resources Referenced: Always Squeezing Lemons: Taking Responsibility to Define Your Own Success  by Kayla Logue  Move Into Words Kayla Logue Website Kayla Logue on LinkedIn Podcast Contact: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Are Your Best Deals Dying in Indecision? If your qualified sales opportunities mysteriously evaporating into "no decision" losses, even when customers seem sold on your solution, you're not alone. Research shows 40-60% of qualified pipeline deals end this way, and that number is climbing to 70-80% in today's uncertain environment. In this eye-opening episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast Matt Dixon, renowned sales researcher and bestselling author of The Challenger Sale and The JOLT Effect, sits down with Learnit CEO Damon Lembi to share the groundbreaking results of having analyzed 2.5 million sales conversations. He reveals why traditional sales tactics increase the likelihood of "no decision" losses and introduces a revolutionary framework for helping hesitant customers move forward with confidence. Dixon explains why 87% of senior executives are more indecisive than they admit, how fear of failure trumps fear of missing out, and what top performers do differently to close deals others lose to analysis paralysis.   This Episode Covers: Why focusing on FOMO (fear of missing out) backfires with modern buyers - they care more about FOMU (fear of messing up) The "delegation effect" - how top performers share the burden of decision-making risk with customers Why bringing in too many experts too early undermines the salesperson's authority and trusted advisor status How "pre-buttals" - addressing objections before they're raised - build trust and demonstrate expertise The power of "dangerously honest" selling in building customer confidence Why professional services selling requires a completely different approach than product sales The psychological safety net created by executive sponsorship in major deals   About Matt: Matt Dixon, Ph.D., is a leading global expert on sales and customer experience, known for his groundbreaking research that has revolutionized how organizations approach sales and service strategy. As founding partner of the research-driven consulting firm DCM Insights and author of multiple Wall Street Journal bestsellers including The Challenger Sale and The JOLT Effect, Matt has contributed over 20 articles to Harvard Business Review and advised hundreds of Fortune 500 executive teams on transforming their sales and customer experience approaches.    Resources Referenced: The JOLT Effect: How High Performers Overcome Customer Indecision by Matt Dixon The Challenger Sale: Taking Control of the Customer Conversation by Matt Dixon JOLTeffect.com - Tools and resources DCM Insights Website What Today's Rainmakers Do Differently “Sneak Peak” of upcoming The Activator Advantage The Activator Advantage (upcoming book, May 2025) Matt Dixon on LinkedIn Podcast Contact:Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Are you unsure how to harness the full potential of AI for your business? Take the first step toward future-proofing your organization with actionable strategies from AI strategist Ben Gold and start building your AI roadmap today.  In this insightful episode of The Learn-It-All Leader Podcast, Learnit CEO Damon Lembi speaks with Ben Gold, an AI strategist who helps companies bridge the gap between technology and business objectives.  Ben breaks down how businesses can leverage AI to become more efficient, strategic, and innovative. From eliminating manual tasks to enabling better decision-making, Ben offers actionable advice for leaders ready to embrace AI and avoid being left behind. He also addresses common misconceptions and shares strategies for overcoming internal pushback when adopting AI technologies. This is your opportunity to learn from a leading AI strategist with 20+ years of tech sales experience how AI can supercharge your organization, streamline operations, and drive strategic growth. This Episode Covers: Why AI is evolving at a geometric pace and what that means for your business. How AI can reduce manual tasks, freeing your team to focus on strategy. The biggest mistake companies make with AI adoption and how to avoid it. Why legal and infosec concerns shouldn’t stop your AI rollout—ways to ensure security and privacy. How to start small with AI to drive organizational change and secure quick wins. Tips for building an internal AI council and integrating AI into every department. How startups are using AI to compete with larger companies. The importance of being AI-curious and volunteering to lead AI projects in your company. Episode Highlights:  (00:00) Introduction to Ben Gold – Damon introduces Ben Gold, AI strategist, and they discuss the rapid advancements in AI and its transformative potential. (02:00) Understanding AI’s Capabilities – Ben shares how AI’s exponential growth can revolutionize data processing, workflow optimization, and decision-making. (06:00) Overcoming AI Adoption Challenges – Ben addresses common concerns from legal and security teams and explains ways to secure AI implementation in large organizations. (09:30) Leveraging AI for Efficiency – Ben provides examples of AI-driven tools that streamline work tasks, allowing teams to focus on high-value projects. (13:24) Setting Up an AI Council – Ben explains why establishing an AI council is critical and how it helps align AI initiatives across departments. (16:40) Practical Advice for Getting Started – Ben offers recommendations for leaders on identifying quick AI wins to build momentum in their organizations. (21:50) The Role of AI in Job Security – Ben discusses the importance of upskilling and why employees need to embrace AI to stay relevant in the job market. (33:00) The Future of Work – Damon and Ben wrap up with predictions on how AI will continue to reshape the workforce and tips on fostering a curious, adaptable mindset.  About Ben Ben Gold is an AI strategist with over 20 years of experience in technology and a focus on leveraging AI to drive business growth and efficiency. He specializes in developing customized AI adoption strategies, ethical AI deployment, and helping companies navigate the complexities of AI in a rapidly evolving market. Through hands-on consulting, speaking engagements, and targeted programs, Ben empowers organizations and individuals to harness the power of AI for strategic advantage and career development.   Resources Referenced Claude AI ChatGPT  Clay.com Paul Roetzer’s Marketing AI Institute The Artificial Intelligence Show Podcast Book: Co-Intelligence--Living and Working with AI by Ethan Mollick Descript Book: Finding Your Next Job with Chat GPT--A Guide for Everyone by Ben Gold Ben Gold on LinkedIn  Podcast Contact: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Craig Dowden, an executive coach and bestselling author, delves into the essence of effective leadership. He emphasizes that self-leadership is foundational for inspiring teams and fostering a positive culture. The discussion covers the importance of emotional mastery, the distinction between a growth mindset and a fixed mindset, and how feedback serves as a powerful tool for development. Dowden also explores authentic leadership, advocating for empathy and transparency in navigating challenges, ultimately empowering leaders to lead with purpose and integrity.

Is Your Organization Really as Divided as You Think? With political tensions running high and workplace polarization making headlines, how can leaders create genuine connection and belonging across perceived divisions? What if the deep rifts we see are more illusion than reality?   In this timely and profound conversation, global leadership expert Dov Baron challenges conventional wisdom about division and polarization in organizations. Twice recognized among the world's Top 30 Global Leadership Gurus, Dov Baron transformed from poverty in Northern England to become a leading authority on authentic leadership through his pioneering "Emotional Source Code" methodology. A bestselling author and host of Apple's #1 podcast for Fortune 500 executives, Baron helps elite leaders and global organizations create purpose-driven cultures that foster unprecedented loyalty, presenting his insights at venues like the United Nations. His influential books "One Red Thread" and "Fiercely Loyal" continue to shape modern leadership thinking, earning him recognition from Inc. Magazine as a Top 100 Leadership Speaker. This Episode Covers: • Why the perception of widespread division is often exaggerated and how only 21% of people are truly polarized • The critical difference between "fitting in" and "belonging" in organizational culture • How reciprocal vulnerability builds deep trust and stronger relationships • Why meaningful work matters more than money for employee loyalty (once basic needs are met) • Why leaders must model vulnerability first but need emotional maturity to do it effectively • The importance of examining the "subculture" rather than written culture documents • How focusing on shared purpose can bridge seemingly insurmountable differences   Episode Highlights:  (00:00) Introduction to Dov Baron – Damon introduces Dov Baron, global leadership expert, and they discuss the challenges of connection in today’s divided world. (02:00) The Illusion of Division – Dov shares his insights on why society appears more divided than it actually is and how media amplifies fear and conflict. (05:30) Emotional Source Code – Dov explains his “emotional source code” concept and how it shapes individual and organizational identities. (09:00) Building Genuine Belonging – Dov discusses the importance of belonging in the workplace and how leaders can foster an environment where people feel truly valued. (12:33) The Role of Vulnerability in Leadership – Dov emphasizes why vulnerability is essential for leaders and how it builds trust and connection within teams. (17:00) Facilitating Healthy Conflict – Dov provides practical advice on managing conflict in a way that deepens relationships rather than divides. (21:30) Connecting Through Shared Values – Dov explains how identifying common values can help leaders unify their teams, even across ideological differences. (33:18) Final Thoughts on Leadership and Connection – Damon and Dov conclude with actionable advice for leaders on fostering a purpose-driven, inclusive culture. About Dov: Twice recognized among the world's Top 30 Global Leadership Gurus, Dov Baron transformed from poverty in Northern England to become a leading authority on authentic leadership through his pioneering "Emotional Source Code" methodology. A bestselling author and host of Apple's #1 podcast for Fortune 500 executives, Baron helps elite leaders and global organizations create purpose-driven cultures that foster unprecedented loyalty, presenting his insights at venues like the United Nations. His influential books "One Red Thread" and "Fiercely Loyal" continue to shape modern leadership thinking, earning him recognition from Inc. Magazine as a Top 100 Leadership Speaker.   Resources Referenced: DovBaron.com The Dov Baron Show podcast  Dov Baron on LinkedIn One Red Thread: Discovering the Purpose Already Woven Into Your Life by Dov Baron Fiercely Loyal: How High Performing Companies Develop and Retain Top Talent by Dov Your Kids Are Your Own Fault: A Guide For Raising Responsible, Productive Adults by Larry Winget Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap...And Others Don't by Jim Collins The Cure for Hate: A Former White Supremacist’s Journey from Violent Extremism to Radical Compassion by Tony McAleer Podcast Contact: Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Are You Missing Out on Great Talent?   What if the key to unlocking career and business success is hidden in the mindset of walk-on athletes—people who aren't chosen, but choose to show up? In this episode of The Learn-It-All Leader Podcast, Learnit CEO Damon Lembi interviews Jim Roddy, author of The Walk-On Method to Career and Business Success.  Business leaders, this conversation isn’t just about sports; it's a game plan for developing resilience, maximizing strengths, and building high-performing teams. If you've ever struggled to get your team to push through challenges or wondered how to develop that 'extra gear,' this episode is for you. Learn how to develop resilience, maximize your strengths, and never quit with Jim Roddy’s insights. Damon and Jim explore the mindset and strategies that helped 31 athletes, who began as walk-ons, find remarkable success in their careers. Jim shares how the 'Walk-On Method' can transform not just individuals, but entire organizations. By taking big risks, focusing on resilience, and leveraging unique strengths, leaders can drive both personal and organizational growth. This episode will challenge you to rethink the way you build and lead your teams—moving from just showing up to exceeding expectations. This Episode Covers: How to develop a resilient, never-quit mindset in business. Why controlling emotions and focusing on strengths can accelerate leadership growth. Real-life examples of business leaders who applied the Walk-On Method to scale success. The importance of running toward obstacles, not away from them. How to give and receive feedback effectively to unlock potential in your team. Actionable strategies to overcome fear of failure and take career-defining risks. Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Jim Roddy – Damon introduces Jim Roddy, CEO, business coach, and author, and they dive into Jim’s background as a walk-on athlete and how it shaped his career. (02:00) What It Means to Be a Walk-On – Jim explains the concept of a walk-on, sharing his own journey and how the lessons he learned apply to the business world. (05:30) The Walk-On Method – Jim outlines his five-step Walk-On Method for success and explains how each step builds resilience and character. (09:00) Taking Feedback with Humility – Jim shares tips for leaders on accepting feedback, being open to criticism, and how it fuels growth. (12:33) Building a Culture of Accountability – Jim discusses the importance of accountability in teams and how leaders can inspire ownership and commitment. (17:00) Facing and Overcoming Obstacles – Jim recounts tough moments in his career and how the walk-on mindset helped him navigate challenges. (21:30) Developing Resilience – Jim emphasizes the importance of resilience, sharing practical advice on how to persevere in the face of setbacks. (33:18) Jim’s Advice for Aspiring Leaders – Jim offers final thoughts on building a successful career through hard work, dedication, and intentionality. About Jim: Jim Roddy, President and CEO of the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an accomplished business coach, author, and keynote speaker with over 25 years of leadership experience in retail IT and business management. He helps growth-focused leaders and entrepreneurs build high-performing teams by applying the resilience and strategies drawn from his book, The Walk-On Method to Career & Business Success, and his experience as a walk-on collegiate athlete. A cancer survivor, Jim's first book Hire Like You Just Beat Cancer focused on best practices in hiring through the lens of personal resilience.   Resources Referenced: Book: The Walk-On Method To Career & Business Success—31 Underdogs Who Became Extraordinary (And So Can You!) by Jim Roddy Book: Hire Like You Just Beat Cancer—Hiring lessons, interview best practices, and recruiting strategies for managers from a cancer-surviving executive by Jim Roddy Book: The Obstacle Is the Way—The Timeless Art of Turning Trials into Triumph by Ryan Holiday Book: The Score Takes Care of Itself--My Philosophy of Leadership by Bill Walsh Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux Be sure to take Jim up on his offer of free book chapters by writing him at: Jim@JimRoddyCBA.com Jim Roddy on LinkedIn Jim’s Website RSPA Website Podcast Contact Information:Website: www.learnit.comEmail: podcast@learnit.comFollow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates.

Are you struggling to make your personal leadership brand resonate with others?  This episode of The Learn-It-All Leader Podcast addresses ways business leaders can overcome self-doubt and build an authentic personal brand that elevates their voice and influence. Learnit CEO Damon Lembi and Ben Albert, founder of Balbert Marketing and host of the Real Business Connection Network discuss Ben’s personal story of navigating the challenges of corporate life, losing his job during the COVID-19 pandemic, and emerging as a successful entrepreneur by building his personal brand. He reveals how leaders can tap into their own strengths, embrace their story, and create a powerful, relatable brand that resonates in today's business world. The episode offers a roadmap for business leaders to step out of their comfort zone and amplify their impact. If you’re ready to unlock the power of personal branding and step into your full leadership potential, this episode is full of valuable insights and strategies that will help you grow your business and personal influence. This Episode Covers: How to stop “playing small” and embrace leadership roles Personal branding strategies that build trust and visibility The power of storytelling in connecting with clients and teams How raw, authentic content can be more effective than polished presentations The importance of curiosity and learning from everyone you meet Steps to launch a podcast or build your presence as a guest   Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Ben Albert – Damon introduces Ben Albert, founder of Balbert Marketing and host of Real Business Connections, diving into Ben’s journey from COVID setbacks to entrepreneurial success. (01:32) Building a Personal Brand – Ben explains the importance of personal branding and why aligning it with your values can set you apart. (05:30) Leveraging LinkedIn – Ben discusses how to use LinkedIn effectively for networking, connecting, and establishing yourself as a thought leader. (09:00) Overcoming Imposter Syndrome – Ben shares his approach to stepping outside of his comfort zone and taking action despite doubts. (12:33) Staying Consistent and Real – Ben talks about why showing up authentically on social media resonates with audiences and builds trust. (17:00) Starting a Podcast – Ben offers advice on whether to guest on podcasts or start your own and how podcasting can help you expand your reach. (21:30) The Power of Networking – Ben emphasizes the importance of networking and collaborating with peers to grow both personally and professionally. (33:18) Final Thoughts on Branding – Damon and Ben wrap up with actionable advice for leaders and entrepreneurs on creating a brand that’s true to who they are. About Ben Ben Albert, founder of Balbert Marketing, helps business leaders grow their personal brands and attract ideal clients through proven online marketing systems. As the host of the Real Business Connection Network, he shares insights on business growth and leadership across five podcasts. Ben’s journey from corporate burnout to thriving entrepreneur has inspired leaders to embrace storytelling and personal branding as tools for success, with endorsements from influential figures like Mark Schaefer and Jordan Harbinger.   Resources Referenced: Book: The Success Principles--How to Get from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be by Jack Canfield Ben Albert’s Website Real Business Connections Network The Real Business Connections Podcast Ben Albert on LinkedIn   Podcast Contact: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Are your top performers doubting themselves? What if you could transform their uncertainty into unstoppable momentum with just one conversation? In this powerful episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, Learnit CEO Damon Lembi discusses how recognizing and acknowledging people's achievements can profoundly impact their confidence, performance, and career trajectory. Through personal stories from his early baseball career to his role as CEO, Damon shows how leaders who actively highlight their team members' successes create lasting positive change. Reflecting on the mentors who shaped his path, he shares practical strategies for building a culture where people believe in themselves and reach their full potential. Damon explains why leaders must recognize and nurture the greatness within their teams and provides actionable insights for leaders who want to make a lasting difference through encouragement, belief, and intentional support.  This Episode Covers: - How recognizing achievements builds trust and confidence - Practical ways to help team members see their own potential - Why celebrating small successes can have long-term impact - The importance of believing in people before they believe in themselves - Strategies for sharing positive feedback and creating a supportive team culture   Episode Highlights:  (00:00) Introduction – Damon introduces the episode and shares his thoughts on the role of a leader in helping others see their potential. (01:00) The High School Baseball Story – Damon recounts a story from high school baseball, where a coach’s belief helped him regain his confidence during a challenging time. (03:00) Building Confidence in Your Team – Damon discusses how leaders can help team members reflect on their achievements to foster self-belief. (04:00) The Story of Laurel Taylor – Damon shares the story of a former employee who was inspired to start her own company after a simple conversation that helped her recognize her own potential. (05:00) Making Encouragement Part of Leadership – Damon explains why leaders shouldn’t wait for someone to struggle before offering words of encouragement and support. (06:00) Practical Tips for Leaders – Damon provides actionable tips on how to give meaningful feedback, recognize successes, and create a culture of encouragement. (07:00) Wrapping Up – Damon concludes with a reminder of the long-lasting impact that leaders can have by simply believing in their team members and helping them see their own greatness.   About Damon:  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 Referenced: - Damon Lembi’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damonlembi - Learnit: https://www.Learnit.com - Damon’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/damonlembi - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/learnittraining - The Learn-It-All Leader: Mindset, Tools, and Traits: https://www.amazon.com/Learn-All-Leader-Mindset-Traits-ebook/dp/B0BZXKR784   Podcast Contact Information:  Website: www.learnit.comEmail: podcast@learnit.comFollow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Are You Leading with Intention or Just Reacting to Whatever Comes Your Way? In a world that's increasingly "BANI" (Brittle, Anxious, Nonlinear, Incomprehensible), former Campbell Soup Company CEO Doug Conant shares how he transforms toxic workplace cultures into high-performing organizations by leading with intention.  In this stand-out episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, Doug’s insights offer a blueprint for navigating today's complexities with a balanced approach to resilience, high performance, and purpose-driven leadership. He unpacks his leadership journey, from turning around Campbell Soup Company to establishing Conant Leadership and offers hard-earned lessons on building an enduring culture, emphasizing the importance of integrity, connection, and continuous personal growth. Sharing candid stories from his remarkable career journey – from being fired at age 32 to becoming CEO of a Fortune 500 company – Doug reveals why winning in the workplace must come before winning in the marketplace.  This Episode Covers: Your Life is Your Leadership Story: Doug’s philosophy is that a leader’s journey is rooted in their personal story. Aligning one’s values with leadership helps create authentic connections and a more fulfilling impact​Leadership in the 21st Century: Practical strategies for leading in a complex, diverse world that requires EQ, character, and a people-first approach. To Win in the Marketplace, You Need to Win in the Workplace: Doug believed that marketplace success starts with a thriving workplace culture, which fosters high performance and lasting impact​Grow or Die: Leaders, Doug insists, must continually evolve. Stagnation means failure, especially as modern leadership requires constant adaptation to a changing environmentTough on Process, Tenderhearted with People: Doug emphasized balancing high standards with compassion. He believed that leaders should be rigorous with processes but caring toward people, fostering both accountability and trustLead with Intention, Not by the Seat of Your Pants: Doug believed leaders should act with purpose, setting a clear path rather than reacting to chaos.Expressing Appreciation: Doug shares his practice of writing 30,000 thank-you notes and how showing gratitude can transform workplace culture. Episode Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Doug Conant – Damon introduces Doug Conant, former CEO of Campbell Soup and founder of Conant Leadership, and they discuss his philosophy on leadership. (01:32) The Power of Deliberate Practice – Doug shares how deliberate practice shaped his leadership journey, starting from his time as a college tennis player. (05:30) Overcoming Setbacks and Building Resilience – Doug reflects on being fired at age 32 and how that experience helped him redefine his approach to leadership.(09:00) Writing 30,000 Thank-You Notes – Doug explains why he prioritized writing thank-you notes to employees and the impact it had on company culture. (12:33) Creating Accountability and Clarity – Doug emphasizes the importance of setting clear expectations and holding leaders accountable to inspire trust within teams. (17:00) The First Hour, First Day Approach – Doug introduces his “first hour, first day” practice for onboarding and establishing rapport with new team members. (21:30) Leading a Major Turnaround – Doug discusses his experiences at Campbell Soup Company, including the strategies that helped him transform the company’s culture and performance (33:18) Advice for Leaders in the 21st Century – Doug offers final thoughts on what it takes to lead with integrity and purpose in today’s complex world. About Doug:Doug Conant, the only former Fortune 500 CEO who is both a New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author, has been a Top 50 Leadership Innovator, a Top 100 Leadership Speaker, and twice named one of the 100 Most Influential Authors in the World. For the past 20 years, he has honed his leadership craft at the most senior levels—first as President of the Nabisco Foods Company, then as CEO of Campbell Soup Company, and finally as Chairman of Avon Products. In 2011, he founded ConantLeadership: a mission-driven community of leaders and learners who are championing leadership that works in the 21st century.  Resources Referenced:  Doug Conant on LinkedIn   ConantLeadership Boot Camp  ConantLeadership Website  The Blueprint: Six Practical Steps to Lift Your Leadership to New Heights by Doug Conant  TouchPoints by Doug Conant  "13 Life Lessons from the Game of Tennis" blog post by Doug Conant  Atomic Habits by James Clear Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck Talent is Overrated: What Really Separates World-Class Performers from Everybody Else by Geoff Colvin   Stephen Covey on leadership  Brené Brown on vulnerability and leadership Podcast Contact Information:   Website: www.learnit.comEmail: podcast@learnit.comFollow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates.