
Growth Think Tank
Develop leadership skills and understand leadership development from expert interviews with transformational leaders. Leaders in the Trenches gives raw discussions that dive deep into new strategies to accelerate your company growth and your leadership abilities. Get interviews from Fortune 100 leaders to experts in various domains of marketing, sales, and leadership that allows you to explode your growth. Learn from their failures and discover the finer elements of significance that will impact your company.
Guests include Daymond John, Les Brown, Michael Gerber, Jonah Berger, Bob Berg, Greg McKeown, and with the host Gene Hammett.
Latest episodes

Nov 16, 2023 • 23min
End the Cycle of Overwhelm and Lead Intentionally with with Shawn Shepheard
Struggling with the cycle of overwhelm? Join us as we delve into strategies for breaking the cycle of overwhelm and leading with intention. In this insightful episode, we explore the transformative power of intentional leadership in creating a balanced and thriving work environment. Today's guest is Shawn Shepheard, A Coach, Keynote Speaker, and founder of Shawn Shepheard Int. In this episode, Shawn shares practical insights and actionable steps to help leaders navigate the cycle of overwhelm and foster a culture of mindfulness and productivity. Discover how intentional leadership can empower teams to overcome burnout, boost morale, and enhance overall performance. Explore real-world examples and expert advice on implementing intentional leadership practices that prioritize well-being, promote effective communication, and drive sustainable growth. Tune in to learn how leaders can foster a culture of intentionality that not only enhances employee satisfaction but also drives long-term organizational success. Get the show notes for End the Cycle of Overwhelm and Lead Intentionally with with Shawn Shepheard Click to Tweet: Listening to a fantastic episode on Growth Think Tank with #ShawnShepheard featuring your host @GeneHammett https://bit.ly/gttShawnShepheard #CycleofOverwhelm #GeneHammettPodcast #GHepisode1043 #Coach #KeynoteSpeaker #ExecutiveCoach Give Growth Think Tank a review on iTunes!

Nov 13, 2023 • 23min
How to Develop a Culture of Making Mistakes to Drive Growth with Amy Kohl at AK Operations
Explore the transformative power of fostering a culture of making mistakes as a catalyst for driving growth and innovation within organizations. In this insightful episode, we delve into the multifaceted benefits of cultivating a culture that encourages risk-taking and embraces failures as valuable learning opportunities. Today's guest is Amy Kohl, CEO and founder of AK Operations. Inc Magazine ranked her company #731 on the 2023 Inc 5000 list. AK Operations is a fractional sales and marketing company for founder-led sales teams, deploying strategies that can scale with the company forever. In this episode, Amy shares invaluable insights and practical strategies on how to develop a robust culture of making mistakes that fosters creativity, resilience, and continuous improvement. Join us as we uncover real-world examples and expert advice on how this culture empowers employees to think outside the box, experiment with new ideas, and contribute to a culture of innovation and forward-thinking. Discover how organizations can leverage a culture of making mistakes to fuel growth, stimulate creativity, and cultivate a dynamic work environment that thrives on experimentation and adaptability. Get the show notes for How to Develop a Culture of Making Mistakes to Drive Growth with Amy Kohl at AK Operations Click to Tweet: Listening to a fantastic episode on Growth Think Tank with #AmyKohl featuring your host @GeneHammett https://bit.ly/gttAmyKohl #CultureofMakingMistakes #GeneHammettPodcast #GHepisode1042 #Inc5000 #fractionalsalescompany #marketingcompany #founderledsalesteams Give Growth Think Tank a review on iTunes!

Nov 9, 2023 • 23min
The Importance of Career Optimization for Talent Retention with Owen Loft at Socium Media
Discover the significance of career optimization in fostering talent retention and organizational success. In this thought-provoking episode, we delve deep into the multifaceted advantages of prioritizing career optimization as a strategic approach to talent management. Today's guest is Owen Loft, Co-Founder & CEO at Socium Media. Inc Magazine ranked his company #643 on the 2023 Inc 5000 list. Socium Media is an NYC-based, direct response digital marketing agency specializing in Paid Search, Paid Social, Performance Creative, and SEO. In this episode, Owen offers valuable insights on how organizations can create an environment that nurtures career optimization, empowering employees to grow and thrive within the company. Tune in to explore real-world examples and practical strategies that illuminate the role of career optimization in enhancing employee satisfaction, boosting productivity, and fostering a culture of continuous learning and development. Uncover the key principles and best practices that underpin effective career optimization strategies, and gain valuable insights into how organizations can leverage this approach to attract top talent, drive employee engagement, and foster long-term success. Don't miss this enlightening discussion that unveils the transformative power of career optimization in shaping a vibrant and resilient workforce, unlocking the full potential of employees for collective growth and prosperity. Get the show notes for The Importance of Career Optimization for Talent Retention with Owen Loft at Socium Media Click to Tweet: Listening to a fantastic episode on Growth Think Tank with #OwenLoft featuring your host @GeneHammett https://bit.ly/gttOwenLoft #CareerOptimization #GeneHammettPodcast #GHepisode1041 #Inc5000 #digitalmarketingagency #PaidSearch #PaidSocial #PerformanceCreative #SEO Give Growth Think Tank a review on iTunes!

Nov 6, 2023 • 24min
Leaders Look at the Real People Behind the Brand with Sue Delegan at Brutus Broth
Unveil the transformative essence of leadership as we explore how visionary leaders perceive the real people behind the brand. Join us in this insightful podcast episode that delves deep into the intricacies of empathetic leadership and its profound impact on organizational culture. Today's guest is Sue Delegan, Co-Founder & CEO at Brutus Broth. Inc Magazine ranked her company #373 on the 2023 Inc 5000 list. Brutus Broth offers a variety of all-natural food products for dogs. In this episode, Sue shares invaluable insights on how leaders can foster a culture of empathy and connection, fostering a workplace where the people behind the brand are valued and supported. Tune in to discover real-world examples and practical strategies that shed light on how leaders can nurture authentic relationships, inspire loyalty, and foster a sense of belonging among the people behind the brand. Embark on a journey of discovery that illuminates the role of human-centric leadership in driving employee engagement, fostering creativity, and cultivating a positive work environment. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode that reveals the key principles behind transformative leadership, unlocking the full potential of the people behind the brand for collective growth and success. Get the show notes for Leaders Look at the Real People Behind the Brand with Sue Delegan at Brutus Broth Click to Tweet: Listening to a fantastic episode on Growth Think Tank with #SueDelegan featuring your host @GeneHammett https://bit.ly/gttSueDelegan #PeopleBehindtheBrand #GeneHammettPodcast #GHepisode1040 #Inc5000 #allnaturalfoodproductsfordogs #fordogs Give Growth Think Tank a review on iTunes!

Nov 2, 2023 • 20min
The Commitment to Company Core Values Aligns the Team with Mike DiFabbio at Encore Landscape Management
In today's fast-paced business world, the commitment to company core values stands as a fundamental pillar that drives team alignment and organizational success. Join us in this enlightening podcast episode as we delve into the transformative power of the commitment to company core values and its profound impact on team cohesion. Today's guest is Mike DiFabbio, Co-Owner of Encore Landscape Management. Inc Magazine ranked his company #258 on the 2023 Inc 5000 list. Encore Landscape Management is a commercial landscape maintenance company operating in the greater Phoenix and Las Vegas areas. Mike brings invaluable insights into fostering a culture where dedication to core values unites and energizes the team. Tune in as we explore real-world examples and practical strategies that illuminate how a steadfast commitment to company core values can enhance employee morale, strengthen organizational identity, and drive sustainable growth. Discover how nurturing a culture of integrity, collaboration, and shared purpose can serve as a catalyst for unleashing the full potential of your team. Don't miss this compelling episode that unveils the key principles behind cultivating and upholding the commitment to company core values, leading your team on a journey toward collective fulfillment and lasting success. Get the show notes for The Commitment to Company Core Values Aligns the Team with Mike DiFabbio at Encore Landscape Management Click to Tweet: Listening to a fantastic episode on Growth Think Tank with #MikeDiFabbio featuring your host @GeneHammett https://bit.ly/3FOzHHf #CommitmenttoCompanyCoreValues #GeneHammettPodcast #GHepisode1039 #Inc5000 #commerciallandscapemaintenancecompany #commerciallandscape Give Growth Think Tank a review on iTunes!

Oct 30, 2023 • 23min
The Power of Customer Success to Align Employees with Henrik Johansson at Gembah
In the dynamic landscape of modern business, understanding the power of customer success to align employees has become a cornerstone of organizational prosperity. Join us in this insightful podcast episode as we explore the transformative impact of customer success and its pivotal role in fostering employee alignment. Today's guest is Henrik Johansson, Co-Founder & CEO at Gembah. Inc Magazine ranked his company #481 on the 2023 Inc 5000 list. Gembah is a end-to-end product development platform helping companies and innovators take ideas from concept to reality. Henrik brings profound insights into the art of leveraging customer success to unify and align employees towards a common goal. Tune in as we unravel real-world examples and practical strategies that highlight how a strong focus on customer success can drive employee engagement, enhance customer satisfaction, and fuel the overall growth and success of your business. Discover how nurturing a culture of customer-centricity, empathy, and dedication to delivering exceptional service can foster a sense of purpose, pride, and collective ownership among your employees. Don't miss this illuminating episode that unravels the key principles behind utilizing customer success to align employees and steer your organization towards enduring success. Get the show notes for The Power of Customer Success to Align Employees with Henrik Johansson at Gembah Click to Tweet: Listening to a fantastic episode on Growth Think Tank with #HenrikJohansson featuring your host @GeneHammett https://bit.ly/3QE6chT #CustomerSuccess #GeneHammettPodcast #GHepisode1038 #Inc5000 #endtoendproductdevelopmentplatform #developmentplatform Give Growth Think Tank a review on iTunes!

Oct 26, 2023 • 23min
When You Care for Employees and Appreciate Them Your Company Grows with Alessandro Bogliari at The Influencer Marketing Factory
When you care for employees and appreciate them, your company experiences substantial growth on various fronts. In this insightful podcast episode, we delve into the transformative impact of prioritizing employee well-being and recognition within organizations. Today's guest is Alessandro Bogliari, Co-Founder & CEO at The Influencer Marketing Factory. Inc Magazine ranked his company #340 on the 2023 Inc 5000 list. The Influencer Marketing Factory is a marketing agency helping companies engage with Gen Z and millennials on social media platforms. In this episode, Alessandro brings invaluable insights into the art of fostering a culture that truly cares for employees and appreciates their contributions. Join us as we uncover the principles and practices that underpin a successful employee-centric approach, emphasizing the significance of fostering a nurturing work environment where care for employees is the cornerstone of the company's success. Discover how prioritizing employee welfare, fostering a sense of belonging, and providing avenues for professional and personal growth can lead to heightened morale, increased productivity, and enhanced organizational resilience. Tune in to explore how a genuine commitment to caring for employees lays the foundation for a thriving, dynamic, and resilient workplace culture. Get the show notes for When You Care for Employees and Appreciate Them Your Company Grows with Alessandro Bogliari at The Influencer Marketing Factory Click to Tweet: Listening to a fantastic episode on Growth Think Tank with #AlessandroBogliari featuring your host @GeneHammett https://bit.ly/3tOHpyA #CareforEmployees #GeneHammettPodcast #GHepisode1037 #Inc5000 #Influencermarketingagency #marketingagency Give Growth Think Tank a review on iTunes!

Oct 23, 2023 • 22min
How a No Boss Culture Creates More Growth with Ed Watal at Intellibus
In modern organizational dynamics, the concept of a 'No Boss Culture' is revolutionizing traditional workplace paradigms, fostering a more collaborative and empowering environment that fuels accelerated growth and innovation. In this episode, we explore the transformative impact of a No Boss Culture and its profound implications for organizational development. Today's guest is Aditya (Ed) Watal, CEO at Intellibus. Inc Magazine ranked his company #375 on the 2023 Inc 5000 list. Intellibus is a software and consulting company supporting the backbone of the financial trading industry. Aditya (Ed) will unravel the intricacies of cultivating a culture where autonomy, shared responsibility, and collective decision-making take center stage, enabling teams to thrive and reach new heights of productivity. Join us as we uncover the principles and practices that underpin a successful No Boss Culture, emphasizing the importance of trust, open communication, and a shared sense of purpose. Discover how embracing a No Boss Culture can stimulate creativity, encourage employee engagement, and foster a dynamic work atmosphere that catalyzes continuous learning and growth. Get the show notes for How a No Boss Culture Creates More Growth with Ed Watal at Intellibus Click to Tweet: Listening to a fantastic episode on Growth Think Tank with #Aditya(Ed)Watal featuring your host @GeneHammett https://bit.ly/3Qtj5tV #NoBossCulture #GeneHammettPodcast #GHepisode1036 #Inc5000 #softwarecompany #consultingcompany Give Growth Think Tank a review on iTunes!

Oct 19, 2023 • 24min
How to Develop the Skills for Outstanding Leadership with Tim Madden at Executive Career Upgrades
In the ever-evolving landscape of business, mastering the skills for outstanding leadership is essential for driving organizational success and fostering a culture of excellence. Today's guest is Tim Madden, Founder & CEO of Executive Career Upgrades. Inc Magazine ranked his company #512 on the 2023 Inc 5000 list. Executive Career Upgrades supports the evolution of high-performing corporate leaders through collaboration, technology, and pushing for maximum performance. In this episode, Tim delves into the intricacies of developing the skills for outstanding leadership. Our esteemed guest will offer invaluable insights, practical tips, and real-world examples that illuminate the key attributes and competencies required to become an exceptional leader. Join us as we explore the various dimensions of leadership development, uncovering the strategies and techniques that can help you hone your leadership skills and elevate your professional journey. Discover how cultivating the skills for outstanding leadership can empower you to inspire and motivate your team, navigate challenges with resilience, and steer your organization toward sustainable growth and prosperity. Get the show notes for How to Develop the Skills for Outstanding Leadership with Tim Madden at Executive Career Upgrades Click to Tweet: Listening to a fantastic episode on Growth Think Tank with #TimMadden featuring your host @GeneHammett https://bit.ly/45DZqNd #SkillsforOutstandingLeadership #GeneHammettPodcast #GHepisode1035 #Inc5000 #evolutionofhighperformingcorporateleadersthroughcollaboration Give Growth Think Tank a review on iTunes!

Oct 16, 2023 • 23min
The Importance of Employee Culture with Adam Goering at Revive Media
The importance of employee culture cannot be overstated in today's fast-paced and competitive business world. A thriving organizational culture is the cornerstone of a successful and innovative workplace. It shapes the way employees collaborate, communicate, and contribute to their organization. In this enlightening podcast episode, we will explore the significance of the importance of employee culture. Today's guest is Adam Goering, Co-Founder & CEO of Revive Media. Inc Magazine ranked his company #69 on the 2023 Inc 5000 list. Revive Media is an Advanced Amazon Ads Partner and industry leader in both AMC and STV, with years of experience leveraging Amazon's exclusive supply and audience data to drive unparalleled results for brands selling on and off the platform. Our guest, Adam will share his expert insights, practical strategies, and real-world examples that highlight the pivotal role of employee culture in driving engagement, productivity, and long-term success. Join us in this insightful conversation as we unravel the importance of employee culture and how it can transform your organization into a vibrant and cohesive community that attracts and retains top talent. Get the show notes for The Importance of Employee Culture with Adam Goering at Revive Media Click to Tweet: Listening to a fantastic episode on Growth Think Tank with #AdamGoering featuring your host @GeneHammett https://bit.ly/gttAdamGoering #ImportanceofEmployeeCulture #GeneHammettPodcast #GHepisode1034 #Inc5000 #AdvancedAmazonAdsPartner #AMC #STV Give Growth Think Tank a review on iTunes!