2Bobs—with David C. Baker and Blair Enns

The podcast discusses the trend of service providers trying to raise prices by appearing more 'strategic', losing work to off-shore teams and AI. Topics include the evolution of strategy in creative industries, global workforce shifts, adapting strategies for success in changing markets, and navigating industry disruption and innovation.

Exploring the characteristics of tech bros, the podcast critiques their focus on quick wealth without evidence of success. It contrasts their lifestyle with sarcasm while highlighting admirable traits like discipline. The conversation also delves into leveraging customer advocacy for business growth and the intersection of tech and altruism.

Blair shares steps for creative agency leaders to turn their team into a sales force. They discuss expanding roles, creating a culture of excellence, and navigating the transition from a delivery to sales team.

The podcast explores the nuances of ethical consulting and advising, discussing the transition from consultant to advisor role. They emphasize the importance of ethical client advising and highlight seven core principles, including humility, active listening, and empathy.

Exploring how salespeople dominate conversations, the pitfalls of talking too much, strategies for letting the client lead, using marketing to improve sales efficiency, enhancing communication skills, improving listening skills, and gamifying sales conversations for better outcomes.

Exploring the benefits of working with maverick clients who push boundaries and challenge the status quo. Discussing the importance of understanding and nurturing these individuals within client organizations. Highlighting the role of Mavericks as catalysts for innovation and success, bringing fresh perspectives and driving meaningful change.

Exploring the clash between traditional sales techniques and expert behavior, the podcast challenges the idea of pitching and persuading in sales. It emphasizes the importance of genuine presence over presentation, innovative sales techniques, and balancing expertise with salesmanship.

Exploring eight ways creative firms can improve pro bono work, discussing the balance between expertise and monetary support for causes. The importance of setting firm boundaries in pro bono services, being selective with clients, and emphasizing meaningful impact. Highlighting the evolution of pro bono work in ad agencies, focusing on structured processes and addressing societal issues. Leveraging pro bono work as a strategic testing ground for relationships and new sectors, experimenting with diverse service offerings and partnerships.

Blair shares his experiences visiting a highly principled creative firm in New Zealand. The hosts discuss their definition of success and admire a firm that prioritizes doing good work. They explore the concept of 'attending the way' and the importance of listening to clients and evaluating principles.

The hosts discuss the conflicts that arise when determining principal compensation in firms with multiple owners. They explain the three components of compensation - ownership, work, and risk. They explore the various forms of risk associated with lending money to a company. They also delve into the principles of partner compensation, including ownership percentage and contribution level.