Difference Talks

Send us a textIn this episode, we talk with Dan Starr, CEO of Do it Best, discussing the importance of company culture, leadership, and employee engagement. Dan shares his journey from law to business, the influence of past leaders, and how the company maintains its culture amidst growth and challenges. The conversation emphasizes the significance of transparency, servant leadership, and genuine care for employees as key components of successful leadership.Key Takeaways:The philosophy of serving others defines Do It Best's culture.Profit sharing is a critical aspect of employee investment.Maintaining culture during acquisitions is a significant challenge.Transparency in leadership fosters loyalty and trust among employees.Caring for employees' well-being is essential for effective leadership.Cultural alignment is crucial when hiring new leaders.Difficult decisions should be communicated with honesty and compassion.Celebrating team wins is a source of joy for leaders.Understanding individual employee circumstances can lead to better outcomes. About Dan Starr: Dan Starr is the CEO of Do it Best. He joined the company in 2005 as director of human resources and general counsel. Over his years of business leadership, Dan has served on many non-profit boards, including the Do it Best Foundation.Join the Conversation: We hope you enjoy this episode with Dan Starr. Be sure to listen, subscribe, and leave a review to let us know your thoughts!Where to find more: https://www.doitbestonline.com/about/leadership-team/dan-starr/ 

Send us a textIn our conversation with Ken Schmidt, former director of communications at Harley-Davidson, we discuss the brand's struggles and turnaround. We explore the importance of community, quality, and human behavior in building brand loyalty and creating memorable customer experiences. Ken emphasizes that customers are loyal to the people behind the brand, not just the product, and shares insights on how businesses can differentiate themselves in a competitive market.Takeaways:·       Management must recognize and address threats before they escalate into crises.·       Customers are loyal to the people behind the brand, not just the product itself.·       Creating memorable experiences is crucial for customer retention and loyalty.·       Visible passion from employees attracts customers and fosters loyalty.·       Businesses should focus on being known for who they are, not just what they do.·       Businesses should prioritize customer feedback and experiences over mere data collection.About Ken Schmidt: Ken Schmidt is the former director of communications at Harley-Davidson, an author and keynote speaker. He is widely known and respected as one of the business world’s most outspoken, provocative, and entertaining thought leaders on competition, brand management, positioning, reputation management, human behavior, and loyalty.Join the Conversation: We hope you enjoy this episode with Ken Schmidt. Be sure to listen, subscribe, and leave a review to let us know your thoughts!Where to find more: https://kenspeaks.com/ 

Send us a textIn this episode, we welcome Dr. Rebecca Homkes, high-growth strategy expert and bestselling author, to explore the concept of uncertainty in business, reframing it as an opportunity rather than a challenge. We discuss how leaders can navigate uncertainty by shifting from traditional planning to preparation, emphasizing the importance of learning organizations that adapt quickly. The role of technology and AI in supporting growth strategies is also highlighted, along with the critical need for differentiation in a competitive market. Ultimately, the discussion underscores that uncertainty can be a catalyst for growth if approached with the right mindset and strategies.Takeaways:Uncertainty is a neutral term that can offer opportunities.Preparation is more important than rigid planning.Learning organizations prioritize insights from the market over traditional teaching methods.AI should support and accelerate growth strategies, not replace them.Differentiation is key to thriving in chaotic environments.Organizations must focus on learning loops to improve growth.Leaders should not wait for market conditions to dictate growth. About Rebecca Homkes: Dr. Rebecca Homkes is a high-growth strategy specialist and the founder of a boutique consultancy firm, advising CEOs and executive teams focused on growth and success through uncertainty. She is also a faculty member at Duke Corporate Executive Education, lecturer at the London Business School (LBS) Executive Education, and an advisor and faculty member at BCGU (Boston Consulting Group). Dr. Homkes is the director of the Young President’s Organization (YPO) global Active Learning Program (ALP). Join the Conversation: We hope you enjoy this episode with Rebecca Homkes. Be sure to listen, subscribe, and leave a review to let us know your thoughts!Where to find more: https://www.rebeccahomkes.com/ 

Send us a textIn this episode, we talk with Ron Baker on the concept of transformation in business, emphasizing the shift from traditional service models to a focus on guiding customers through personal transformations. We discuss the importance of differentiation, the evolution of the experience economy, and share real-world examples of companies successfully implementing transformation strategies. The conversation also touches on pricing strategies, the rise of concierge medicine, and innovative business models like Porsche’s subscription service. Takeaways:Companies must focus on the customer's desired future state to create value.The experience economy is evolving into the transformation economy.Pricing strategies should reflect the value perceived by customers, not just cost.The relationship between businesses and customers is becoming more personal and direct.Companies need to differentiate themselves by focusing on specific customer needs.About Rob Baker: Ron Baker is the author of seven bestselling books, founder of VeraSage Institute, a think tank dedicated to educating professionals internationally, a radio talk-show host on the VoiceAmerica show, The Soul of Enterprise: Business in the Knowledge Economy, and Chief Value Officer at Armanino LLP. Join the Conversation: We hope you enjoy this episode with Rob Baker. Be sure to listen, subscribe, and leave a review to let us know your thoughts!Where to find more: https://www.thesoulofenterprise.com/

Send us a textDavid Mandell shares his journey from a traditional background in law to becoming a co-founder of the Whiskey House of Kentucky, the most technically advanced producer of custom bourbon and American whiskey in the U.S. He discusses the importance of building culture, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the significance of mentorship and teamwork in achieving success. David introduces Whiskey House of Kentucky, highlighting its innovative approach to whiskey production, including the use of advanced technology and AI. Mandell reflects on the importance of learning from past experiences to build a strong company culture and the necessity of celebrating successes while navigating challenges in the entrepreneurial journey.Takeaways:·       Building culture is essential for any business.·       Success is often a process of elimination and exploration.·       Celebrate victories with your team to maintain motivation.·       Transparency with the team is essential during challenges.·       Innovation is key to staying competitive in the market.·       It's important to know your weaknesses and surround yourself with strengths.About David Mandell: David Mandell is the co-founder and CEO of Whiskey House of Kentucky, the most advanced whiskey distillery in the U.S. Prior to founding Whiskey House, Mandell was the co-founder and former president & CEO of The Bardstown Bourbon Company. David was also the founder, President & CEO of The p.i.n.k. Spirits Company, where he developed, created, and launched the first line of ultra-premium spirits infused with caffeine and guarana. Before entering the spirits market, David was the Chief of Staff to Administrator Marion C. Blakey of the Federal Aviation Administration in Washington, D.C.Join the Conversation: We hope you enjoy this episode with David Mandell. Be sure to listen, subscribe, and leave a review to let us know your thoughts!Where to find more: www.linkedin.com/in/david-mandell-746a0245/ 

Send us a textIn this engaging conversation, Betsy Pepine, a dynamic entrepreneur and real estate broker, shares her unique approach to the real estate industry, emphasizing the importance of relationships over transactions. In this conversation, Betsy Pepine discusses the importance of aligning company values with actions, navigating leadership challenges, and the impact of her nonprofit work. She emphasizes the significance of mentorship and personal growth, sharing her experiences in the real estate industry and her commitment to making a positive impact in her community.Takeaways:·       Core values are essential for guiding business practices and decisions. ·       Aligning company values with actions is crucial for success. ·       Navigating change requires strong leadership and clear communication. ·       Personal growth is often tied to professional success. ·       Embracing change can lead to organizational growth. ·       It’s important to prioritize long-term vision over short-term comfort. About Betsy Pepine: Betsy Pepine is a best-selling author, speaker and serial entrepreneur in real estate. Her book, Breaking Boxes: Dismantling the Metaphorical Boxes that Bind Us is an Amazon bestseller, and her real estate brokerage, Pepine Realty, has been named as an Inc. 5000 Fasting Growing Private Company in the USA multiple times. Betsy is endorsed by her mentor, real estate mogul, and Shark Tank shark Barbara Corcoran, as well as leading media personalities Dave Ramsey and Glenn Beck. Passionate about helping at-risk families with children, Betsy founded Pepine Gives, a 501(c)3 non-profit foundation that helps families facing housing insecurity.  Join the Conversation: We hope you enjoy this episode with Betsy Pepine. Be sure to listen, subscribe, and leave a review to let us know your thoughts! Where to find more: www.betsypepine.com

Jonathan Stark, a consultant and sales expert, shares his journey from hourly billing to value-based pricing, significantly increasing his income in the process. He discusses how freelancers can scale their businesses without hiring by adopting automation and effective time management. Jonathan emphasizes the dangers of perfectionism and highlights the value of mistakes as growth opportunities. He also critiques traditional billing methods, advocates for prioritizing customer satisfaction, and explores ways to eliminate time-wasters for a balanced work-life experience.

Send us a textRanaan Meyer is a Grammy and Emmy award winning musician. He discusses his journey in music, including his involvement with the Honeywell Arts Academy. Ranaan shares the story of how Time for Three, his band, was formed through jamming and embracing mistakes. He emphasizes the importance of listening and the power of improvisation in music. He also talks about the Honeywell Arts Academy, a program that brings together young musicians to collaborate and create music. Ranaan envisions a future where the academy has a greater impact and continues to nurture and empower emerging artists.Takeaways:Jamming and embracing mistakes can lead to creative breakthroughs in music and other fields.Listening is a crucial skill in music and in life.The Honeywell Arts Academy provides a unique and personalized approach to nurturing and empowering young musicians.The academy aims to create leaders in the music industry who will pay it forward and make a positive impact.Improvisation and spontaneity are key elements in creating meaningful and memorable music experiences.About Ranaan Meyer: Grammy and Emmy award winning, and Gold record Double Bassist Ranaan Meyer is most known as a founding member and performer with the string trio Time for Three, Founder and Artistic Director of Honeywell Arts Academy, and as a solo performing artist, composer and educator. Join the Conversation: We hope you enjoy this episode with Ranaan Meyer. Be sure to listen, subscribe, and leave a review to let us know your thoughts!Where to find more: https://www.ranaanmeyer.com/ 

Send us a textKurt Breischaft, President of SDI LaFarga Copperworks, shares his journey of transforming his company from a commodity business to an inspiring brand known as COPPERWORKS. He emphasizes the importance of differentiation and the power of a strong company culture in driving performance. As his company invested in a new furnace and overcame technical challenges, Kurt and his team improved their operations and drove innovation.Takeaways:Differentiation is key to standing out in a commodity businessA strong company culture can drive performance and inspire employeesInvesting in new equipment and overcoming challenges can lead to significant improvementsEmbracing change and challenging assumptions can lead to innovation and successContinued growth requires a focus on improving operations and stretching capabilitiesAbout Kurt Breischaft: Kurt Breischaft is President of SDI LaFarga COPPERWORKS. He has worked in the copper industry for more than 30 years, holding many roles, from engineering to management and new product development. Kurt led the installation of a new furnace at COPPERWORKS, expanding the company’s product offerings and capabilities.Join the Conversation: We hope you enjoy this episode with Kurt Breischaft. Be sure to listen, subscribe, and leave a review to let us know your thoughts!Where to find more: https://www.copperworks.com/ 

Send us a textCliff Goldmacher, a Grammy Award-winning songwriter and author, discusses his journey in music and how he applies creativity and innovation to the business world. He emphasizes the importance of taking risks, being vulnerable, and embracing failure in order to achieve success. Cliff shares his process of using songwriting as a tool for innovation and team building, allowing participants to think differently and communicate effectively. He also highlights the power of metaphors and lateral thinking in the creative process. Cliff's personal differentiation lies in his ability to bring a fresh perspective to the concept of innovation by incorporating songwriting principles.Takeaways:Creativity and innovation require taking risks and being vulnerable.The number of ideas and songs created is more important than the quality of each individual one.The process of songwriting can be applied to the business world to foster creativity and innovation.Success in music and business is often unpredictable and requires perseverance and a thick skin.About Cliff Goldmacher: Cliff Goldmacher is a GRAMMY-recognized, #1 hit songwriter. He’s worked as a staff songwriter for a Nashville publisher, and his songs have been cut by major label artists across music genres. As a multi-instrumentalist, Cliff has played on and produced thousands of recordings and album projects. He is also an experienced educator, teaching songwriting and music business workshops for leading organizations.Join the Conversation: We hope you enjoy this episode with Cliff Goldmacher. Be sure to listen, subscribe, and leave a review to let us know your thoughts!Where to find more: https://www.cliffgoldmacher.com/