Bring Out the Talent: A Learning and Development Podcast Tue, 11 Aug 2026 14:28:41 -0400 http://thetrainingassociates.com en-us © 2026 Bring Out the Talent: A Learning and Development Podcast yes 6e7fcd18-6b8d-56b3-950d-3b80c3c3ba7b marketing@ttacorp.com Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen episodic false Tune into The Training Associates (TTA) “Bring Out the Talent” podcast to hear from learning and development talent and partners on their innovative approaches and industry insights. In each episode, TTA’s CEO, Maria Melfa, and Talent Manager, Jocelyn Allen will chat with subject matter experts and bring you casual, yet insightful conversations. Maria and Jocelyn use their unique blend of industry experience and humor to interview the L&D industry’s most influential people, latest topics, and powerful stories. Each episode has important takeaways that will help to create a culture of continuous learning within your organization. Tune in as we Bring Out The Talent!

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) learning and development, learning and development podcast, training, training and development Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen marketing@ttacorp.com https://storage.buzzsprout.com/25treo10q7zyu61xqf06om18cfs8?.jpg Bring Out the Talent: A Learning and Development Podcast http://thetrainingassociates.com Building Emotionally Intelligent Leaders and Teams Building Emotionally Intelligent Leaders and Teams Research shows that 90% of top performers score high in emotional intelligence, a number that stands out even more as AI reshapes how work gets done. As technology takes on more of the tactical workload, the skills that set people and organizations apart are becoming more human, not less. The ability to read a room, stay grounded under pressure, build real trust, navigate difficult conversations, and give honest feedback has become a genuine competitive advantage.

In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we are joined by Coach Monique DeMonaco, an internationally trained, multi-certified Life, Leadership, Executive, and Career Coach with over 20 years of experience helping individuals and organizations unlock their full potential. As a Change Management Expert and Emotional Intelligence Coach, Monique brings a science-backed, practical approach to self-awareness, resilience, communication, and emotional regulation. Together, we discuss why emotional intelligence is fast becoming leadership's most strategic skill, how it shapes teams and culture in an AI-driven workplace, and what leaders can do to build it in themselves and others.

]]> Research shows that 90% of top performers score high in emotional intelligence, a number that stands out even more as AI reshapes how work gets done. As technology takes on more of the tactical workload, the skills that set people and organizations apart are becoming more human, not less. The ability to read a room, stay grounded under pressure, build real trust, navigate difficult conversations, and give honest feedback has become a genuine competitive advantage.

In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we are joined by Coach Monique DeMonaco, an internationally trained, multi-certified Life, Leadership, Executive, and Career Coach with over 20 years of experience helping individuals and organizations unlock their full potential. As a Change Management Expert and Emotional Intelligence Coach, Monique brings a science-backed, practical approach to self-awareness, resilience, communication, and emotional regulation. Together, we discuss why emotional intelligence is fast becoming leadership's most strategic skill, how it shapes teams and culture in an AI-driven workplace, and what leaders can do to build it in themselves and others.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-19632476 Tue, 11 Aug 2026 13:00:00 -0400 2886 full false Rethinking Engagement and Performance: A Systems Perspective Rethinking Engagement and Performance: A Systems Perspective Research from Gallup shows that only about 23% of employees are engaged at work globally, a number that has remained stubbornly low despite years of investment in culture, leadership, and development. In reality, what drives behavior at work is often much less visible - it’s the systems behind the scenes. The way meetings are structured, how success is measured, what gets rewarded, and what gets overlooked. These are the forces that shape how work actually gets done.

In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we are joined by Justin Robbins, Founder and Principal Analyst at Metric Sherpa. Justin has spent over two decades helping organizations strengthen customer experience, optimize operations, and turn insight into execution. His work has been featured by NBC Nightly News, The New York Times, and Forbes, and he’s known for bringing a practical, operator-driven perspective to complex organizational challenges. Together, we discuss what really drives performance, why so many transformation efforts fall short, and how leaders can start rethinking the systems that shape engagement, burnout, and results.

]]> Research from Gallup shows that only about 23% of employees are engaged at work globally, a number that has remained stubbornly low despite years of investment in culture, leadership, and development. In reality, what drives behavior at work is often much less visible - it’s the systems behind the scenes. The way meetings are structured, how success is measured, what gets rewarded, and what gets overlooked. These are the forces that shape how work actually gets done.

In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we are joined by Justin Robbins, Founder and Principal Analyst at Metric Sherpa. Justin has spent over two decades helping organizations strengthen customer experience, optimize operations, and turn insight into execution. His work has been featured by NBC Nightly News, The New York Times, and Forbes, and he’s known for bringing a practical, operator-driven perspective to complex organizational challenges. Together, we discuss what really drives performance, why so many transformation efforts fall short, and how leaders can start rethinking the systems that shape engagement, burnout, and results.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-19492269 Tue, 14 Jul 2026 08:00:00 -0400 3319 full false Strengths, Team Dynamics, and the Hidden Side of High Performance Strengths, Team Dynamics, and the Hidden Side of High Performance Every team is made up of people who think differently, communicate differently, solve problems differently, and contribute in very different ways. Yet in many workplaces, there is still an unspoken expectation that everyone should operate the same way.

That is why strengths-based development has become such an important conversation for organizations and leaders. Gallup research has consistently found that employees who have the opportunity to use their strengths every day are significantly more engaged, more productive, and more likely to thrive at work. Understanding how people naturally work, collaborate, respond under pressure, and contribute to a team can completely change the way teams communicate, partner, and perform together.

In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we explore how CliftonStrengths can help individuals and teams better understand working styles, improve collaboration, and recognize both the advantages and potential blind spots that can come with our greatest strengths.

 We’re joined by Chris Soucy, a Certified CliftonStrengths trainer and career development specialist. Chris spent nearly a decade at Harvard University’s Center for Workplace Development as a Program Manager for Leader and Manager Development, where he served as Lead Instructor for foundational leadership programs and designed courses to strengthen management practices across the university.

Chris recently facilitated an in-person strengths workshop for our TTA team. The conversations that came out of that session sparked so much reflection around communication, contribution styles, and team dynamics that we wanted to continue the discussion here on Bring Out the Talent and share those insights with our audience as well.

]]> Every team is made up of people who think differently, communicate differently, solve problems differently, and contribute in very different ways. Yet in many workplaces, there is still an unspoken expectation that everyone should operate the same way.

That is why strengths-based development has become such an important conversation for organizations and leaders. Gallup research has consistently found that employees who have the opportunity to use their strengths every day are significantly more engaged, more productive, and more likely to thrive at work. Understanding how people naturally work, collaborate, respond under pressure, and contribute to a team can completely change the way teams communicate, partner, and perform together.

In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we explore how CliftonStrengths can help individuals and teams better understand working styles, improve collaboration, and recognize both the advantages and potential blind spots that can come with our greatest strengths.

 We’re joined by Chris Soucy, a Certified CliftonStrengths trainer and career development specialist. Chris spent nearly a decade at Harvard University’s Center for Workplace Development as a Program Manager for Leader and Manager Development, where he served as Lead Instructor for foundational leadership programs and designed courses to strengthen management practices across the university.

Chris recently facilitated an in-person strengths workshop for our TTA team. The conversations that came out of that session sparked so much reflection around communication, contribution styles, and team dynamics that we wanted to continue the discussion here on Bring Out the Talent and share those insights with our audience as well.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-19320493 Tue, 09 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0400 2580 full false The AI-Powered Coach: Driving Performance at Scale The AI-Powered Coach: Driving Performance at Scale AI is changing the way organizations think about performance, coaching, and day-to-day work. Yet for many teams, the challenge is not simply adopting new technology. It’s understanding how to use AI in a way that feels practical and genuinely useful for the people doing the work.

 In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we’re joined by Tim Harrison, executive coach, founder of the Coaching Innovation Lab, and one of eight experts selected for the International Coaching Federation’s Global Task Force on AI. Tim works with organizations to help leaders and teams integrate AI into their workflows in ways that support growth, strengthen capability, and keep humans at the center of the process.

 We discuss how organizations can build confidence with AI, where leaders often get adoption wrong, and why the people closest to the work are often best positioned to discover meaningful use cases. Tim also shares his “Do GOOD DEEDS” framework, a practical approach to experimenting with AI in ways that create measurable value without overwhelming teams.

 Throughout the episode, we discuss how AI can amplify human strengths rather than replace them, why access and experimentation matter more than perfection, and how organizations can move from fear and hesitation to curiosity and momentum. From executive coaching and leadership development to productivity, workflow design, and organizational change, this conversation focuses on what AI adoption actually looks like in practice today.

 To learn more about Tim and his expertise in AI, explore more here. https://coachinginnovationlab.com/bringoutthetalent

 

 

]]> AI is changing the way organizations think about performance, coaching, and day-to-day work. Yet for many teams, the challenge is not simply adopting new technology. It’s understanding how to use AI in a way that feels practical and genuinely useful for the people doing the work.

 In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we’re joined by Tim Harrison, executive coach, founder of the Coaching Innovation Lab, and one of eight experts selected for the International Coaching Federation’s Global Task Force on AI. Tim works with organizations to help leaders and teams integrate AI into their workflows in ways that support growth, strengthen capability, and keep humans at the center of the process.

 We discuss how organizations can build confidence with AI, where leaders often get adoption wrong, and why the people closest to the work are often best positioned to discover meaningful use cases. Tim also shares his “Do GOOD DEEDS” framework, a practical approach to experimenting with AI in ways that create measurable value without overwhelming teams.

 Throughout the episode, we discuss how AI can amplify human strengths rather than replace them, why access and experimentation matter more than perfection, and how organizations can move from fear and hesitation to curiosity and momentum. From executive coaching and leadership development to productivity, workflow design, and organizational change, this conversation focuses on what AI adoption actually looks like in practice today.

 To learn more about Tim and his expertise in AI, explore more here. https://coachinginnovationlab.com/bringoutthetalent

 

 

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-19163866 Tue, 12 May 2026 07:00:00 -0400 2750 full false The AI Learning Revolution: Moving from Participation to Proficiency The AI Learning Revolution: Moving from Participation to Proficiency In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we explore The AI Learning Revolution and what it takes to move beyond participation to true proficiency. This conversation introduces a model built on accountability, where AI and human expertise work together to elevate performance and reshape how organizations develop talent in real time.

Joining us is Ed Lance, an expert AI trainer and practitioner with over 25 years of experience designing talent systems for high-stakes environments, including NASA and the U.S. Army. Ed brings a rare combination of strategic insight and technical depth, staying actively engaged in the code while helping organizations rethink how learning drives performance.

Together, we unpack the “80% rule” for mastery, what it looks like to embed learning directly into the flow of work, and how AI-generated data is giving L&D and HR leaders a new level of visibility into skill development. The result is a clearer, more measurable path to proving readiness and impact at the executive level. Tune in and discover how AI is redefining what effective learning really looks like.

]]> In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we explore The AI Learning Revolution and what it takes to move beyond participation to true proficiency. This conversation introduces a model built on accountability, where AI and human expertise work together to elevate performance and reshape how organizations develop talent in real time.

Joining us is Ed Lance, an expert AI trainer and practitioner with over 25 years of experience designing talent systems for high-stakes environments, including NASA and the U.S. Army. Ed brings a rare combination of strategic insight and technical depth, staying actively engaged in the code while helping organizations rethink how learning drives performance.

Together, we unpack the “80% rule” for mastery, what it looks like to embed learning directly into the flow of work, and how AI-generated data is giving L&D and HR leaders a new level of visibility into skill development. The result is a clearer, more measurable path to proving readiness and impact at the executive level. Tune in and discover how AI is redefining what effective learning really looks like.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-18976249 Tue, 07 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0400 2557 full false The Emotional Side of Leadership: How the 12 Emotional Gifts Shape Teams, Culture, and Performance The Emotional Side of Leadership: How the 12 Emotional Gifts Shape Teams, Culture, and Performance In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we’re talking about something that quietly drives almost everything at work but rarely gets measured in a meaningful way: emotion. Most leadership tools focus on what people think, what they do, or how they perform. Very few look at what people actually feel, even though emotions drive motivation, trust, engagement, and culture.

In this episode, we discuss the 12 Emotional Gifts of Leadership and the AgileBrain framework, which uses neuroscience and emotional data to reveal what individuals, teams, and organizations really need in order to thrive. Joining us is a certified AgileBrain trainer and a returning Bring Out the Talent favorite, Lynn Turner. Lynn works with leaders and organizations using this approach, helping them better understand what is really happening beneath the surface and how to lead in ways that truly resonate with people. We’re going to explore how emotional needs like Safety, Autonomy, Inclusion, and Justice show up in real workplaces, what happens when they go unmet, and how leaders can start creating cultures where people genuinely want to do their best work.

 

]]> In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we’re talking about something that quietly drives almost everything at work but rarely gets measured in a meaningful way: emotion. Most leadership tools focus on what people think, what they do, or how they perform. Very few look at what people actually feel, even though emotions drive motivation, trust, engagement, and culture.

In this episode, we discuss the 12 Emotional Gifts of Leadership and the AgileBrain framework, which uses neuroscience and emotional data to reveal what individuals, teams, and organizations really need in order to thrive. Joining us is a certified AgileBrain trainer and a returning Bring Out the Talent favorite, Lynn Turner. Lynn works with leaders and organizations using this approach, helping them better understand what is really happening beneath the surface and how to lead in ways that truly resonate with people. We’re going to explore how emotional needs like Safety, Autonomy, Inclusion, and Justice show up in real workplaces, what happens when they go unmet, and how leaders can start creating cultures where people genuinely want to do their best work.

 

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-18822096 Tue, 10 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0400 2550 full false A Casual Conversation: Inside TTA Connect A Casual Conversation: Inside TTA Connect In this episode, we sit down with TTA leaders John Laverdure, Michael Aguirre, Jocelyn Allen, and Maria Melfa to explore how organizations are redefining the way they discover and engage talent, and why that shift led to the creation of TTA Connect.

Today’s decision makers want greater control over how they evaluate options. Many prefer to research independently, compare choices, and build confidence before ever entering a sales conversation. At the same time, expert guidance still matters when decisions become complex or high stakes. The modern buying journey is no longer purely sales driven or purely digital, it is a hybrid experience shaped by flexibility and trust.

We discuss how TTA Connect was built for this new reality. By combining AI powered technology with more than 30 years of TTA’s vetting expertise and relationships, it delivers a faster, more transparent way to explore learning and development talent while maintaining the quality and partnership organizations expect.

This conversation unpacks the data behind changing decision behavior, what it means for organizations navigating skills gaps and AI transformation, and how TTA Connect brings together self-directed discovery and trusted human insight.

 

]]> In this episode, we sit down with TTA leaders John Laverdure, Michael Aguirre, Jocelyn Allen, and Maria Melfa to explore how organizations are redefining the way they discover and engage talent, and why that shift led to the creation of TTA Connect.

Today’s decision makers want greater control over how they evaluate options. Many prefer to research independently, compare choices, and build confidence before ever entering a sales conversation. At the same time, expert guidance still matters when decisions become complex or high stakes. The modern buying journey is no longer purely sales driven or purely digital, it is a hybrid experience shaped by flexibility and trust.

We discuss how TTA Connect was built for this new reality. By combining AI powered technology with more than 30 years of TTA’s vetting expertise and relationships, it delivers a faster, more transparent way to explore learning and development talent while maintaining the quality and partnership organizations expect.

This conversation unpacks the data behind changing decision behavior, what it means for organizations navigating skills gaps and AI transformation, and how TTA Connect brings together self-directed discovery and trusted human insight.

 

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-18698830 Tue, 17 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0500 2809 full false Revitalize Employee Onboarding: How Agile Thinking Helps Low-Energy Programs Deliver Results Revitalize Employee Onboarding: How Agile Thinking Helps Low-Energy Programs Deliver Results Organizations invest heavily in recruiting top talent, but without effective onboarding, much of that investment is at risk. In fact, companies with strong onboarding programs improve new hire retention by up to 82% and boost productivity by over 70%. The good news? With the right approach, onboarding can become one of the most powerful drivers of culture and performance.

In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we’re joined by Shauna Bona, a learning strategist and organizational development leader who has helped companies transform low-energy onboarding into programs that truly deliver results. With deep expertise in designing experiences that blend strategy, adaptability, and creativity, Shauna brings practical insights into how organizations can energize new hires from day one.

This conversation is all about how agile thinking can revitalize onboarding programs that feel stale or uninspired. From spotting the warning signs of a program that’s lost momentum, to building in continuous feedback loops, to balancing consistency with adaptability, Shauna shares actionable strategies leaders can use to turn onboarding into a long-term engine for engagement, productivity, and success.

Tune in for an insightful discussion that will leave you rethinking the role of onboarding in shaping employee experience and organizational outcomes.



]]> Organizations invest heavily in recruiting top talent, but without effective onboarding, much of that investment is at risk. In fact, companies with strong onboarding programs improve new hire retention by up to 82% and boost productivity by over 70%. The good news? With the right approach, onboarding can become one of the most powerful drivers of culture and performance.

In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we’re joined by Shauna Bona, a learning strategist and organizational development leader who has helped companies transform low-energy onboarding into programs that truly deliver results. With deep expertise in designing experiences that blend strategy, adaptability, and creativity, Shauna brings practical insights into how organizations can energize new hires from day one.

This conversation is all about how agile thinking can revitalize onboarding programs that feel stale or uninspired. From spotting the warning signs of a program that’s lost momentum, to building in continuous feedback loops, to balancing consistency with adaptability, Shauna shares actionable strategies leaders can use to turn onboarding into a long-term engine for engagement, productivity, and success.

Tune in for an insightful discussion that will leave you rethinking the role of onboarding in shaping employee experience and organizational outcomes.



]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-18500571 Tue, 13 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0500 2752 full false Change Management: What Do You Do When It Goes Wrong? Change Management: What Do You Do When It Goes Wrong? What do stalled initiatives, employee resistance, and missed business outcomes all have in common? They’re often signs that change management has gone wrong. In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we’re joined by Carrie Quick, a senior human capital, operations, and business development leader with over 23 years of multi-industry experience. Throughout her career, Carrie has guided organizations through complex transformations, helping leaders align people, process, and strategy when the stakes are high and the path forward isn’t always clear.

This conversation is all about what happens when change doesn’t go as planned. From recognizing the early warning signs to turning setbacks into opportunities for growth, Carrie offers real-world insights that leaders can apply when facing their toughest change challenges. Tune in for a candid, practical discussion that will reshape how you think about failure, resilience, and leading people through uncertainty.

]]> What do stalled initiatives, employee resistance, and missed business outcomes all have in common? They’re often signs that change management has gone wrong. In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we’re joined by Carrie Quick, a senior human capital, operations, and business development leader with over 23 years of multi-industry experience. Throughout her career, Carrie has guided organizations through complex transformations, helping leaders align people, process, and strategy when the stakes are high and the path forward isn’t always clear.

This conversation is all about what happens when change doesn’t go as planned. From recognizing the early warning signs to turning setbacks into opportunities for growth, Carrie offers real-world insights that leaders can apply when facing their toughest change challenges. Tune in for a candid, practical discussion that will reshape how you think about failure, resilience, and leading people through uncertainty.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-18325603 Tue, 09 Dec 2025 12:00:00 -0500 2880 full false Setting the Stage for Success: Onboarding and Orientation Strategies Setting the Stage for Success: Onboarding and Orientation Strategies Starting a new job should feel energizing, not overwhelming. Yet research shows that nearly 30% of new hires leave within their first 90 days, a costly miss that often traces back to ineffective onboarding and orientation. Even more telling, only 12% of employees believe their company provides a great onboarding experience, which means most people feel the system fails them at exactly the moment they need it most. And considering that organizations with a strong onboarding process improve new hire retention by 82% and productivity by over 70%, the stakes for getting it right are high.

 In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we’re joined by Dr. Mechelle Roberthon, a nationally recognized HR and organizational development leader, keynote speaker, and consultant. With over 15 years of experience helping organizations strengthen culture and elevate employee experience, Dr. Rob is known for her practical, people-first approach that turns talent strategies into measurable business impact.

 

This conversation is about shifting onboarding and orientation from administrative necessity into strategic advantage. From blending compliance with culture to designing orientation that truly resonates, Dr. Rob shares strategies leaders can use to set employees up for long-term success. Get ready for a future-focused discussion that will reshape how you think about onboarding, orientation, and those critical first chapters of the employee journey.

]]> Starting a new job should feel energizing, not overwhelming. Yet research shows that nearly 30% of new hires leave within their first 90 days, a costly miss that often traces back to ineffective onboarding and orientation. Even more telling, only 12% of employees believe their company provides a great onboarding experience, which means most people feel the system fails them at exactly the moment they need it most. And considering that organizations with a strong onboarding process improve new hire retention by 82% and productivity by over 70%, the stakes for getting it right are high.

 In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we’re joined by Dr. Mechelle Roberthon, a nationally recognized HR and organizational development leader, keynote speaker, and consultant. With over 15 years of experience helping organizations strengthen culture and elevate employee experience, Dr. Rob is known for her practical, people-first approach that turns talent strategies into measurable business impact.

 

This conversation is about shifting onboarding and orientation from administrative necessity into strategic advantage. From blending compliance with culture to designing orientation that truly resonates, Dr. Rob shares strategies leaders can use to set employees up for long-term success. Get ready for a future-focused discussion that will reshape how you think about onboarding, orientation, and those critical first chapters of the employee journey.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-18191873 Fri, 14 Nov 2025 12:00:00 -0500 3008 full false Driving Positive Leadership in Today's Workplace Driving Positive Leadership in Today's Workplace What do higher productivity, stronger trust, and healthier cultures all have in common? They’re all fueled by one thing: positive leadership.

 In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we’re joined by Jason Murphy, President and Chief Consultant of JRM Human Capital, keynote speaker, executive coach, and master facilitator. For over 25 years, Jason has helped Fortune 500 companies, mid-sized firms, and mission-driven organizations unlock the full potential of their people by making leadership a lived experience. Known for his energy, authenticity, and #EveryDayGreatDay mantra, he’s inspired leaders around the globe to transform how they lead, connect, and grow. This conversation is all about what it really takes to drive positive leadership in today’s workplace. From closing the gaps in clarity, connection, commitment, and care to shutting out negativity and fueling teams with purpose, Jason offers practical steps that leaders can put into action right away.

Get ready for an engaging, energizing discussion that will leave you rethinking how positivity can transform performance, culture, and leadership at every level.

 

]]> What do higher productivity, stronger trust, and healthier cultures all have in common? They’re all fueled by one thing: positive leadership.

 In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we’re joined by Jason Murphy, President and Chief Consultant of JRM Human Capital, keynote speaker, executive coach, and master facilitator. For over 25 years, Jason has helped Fortune 500 companies, mid-sized firms, and mission-driven organizations unlock the full potential of their people by making leadership a lived experience. Known for his energy, authenticity, and #EveryDayGreatDay mantra, he’s inspired leaders around the globe to transform how they lead, connect, and grow. This conversation is all about what it really takes to drive positive leadership in today’s workplace. From closing the gaps in clarity, connection, commitment, and care to shutting out negativity and fueling teams with purpose, Jason offers practical steps that leaders can put into action right away.

Get ready for an engaging, energizing discussion that will leave you rethinking how positivity can transform performance, culture, and leadership at every level.

 

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-17971023 Tue, 07 Oct 2025 10:00:00 -0400 2818 full false Driving Innovation Through Strategic Leadership Driving Innovation Through Strategic Leadership What do billion-dollar innovation, a global marketplace, and bold leadership have in common? They were all driven by one thing: strategic leadership.

 In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we’re joined by John Rossman, former Amazon executive and author of Big Bet Leadership: Your Transformation Playbook for Winning in the Hyper-Digital Era. John led the launch of Amazon Marketplace, now responsible for over half of Amazon’s global sales, and has since guided high-impact transformation at organizations like T-Mobile, the Gates Foundation, and Walmart.

This conversation is all about what it really takes to drive innovation and transformation at scale. From identifying strategic opportunities to breaking through organizational inertia, John offers a behind-the-scenes look at how leaders can make bold moves without losing alignment, culture, or control. Tune in for a sharp, energizing conversation that’ll challenge the way you think about leadership.

]]> What do billion-dollar innovation, a global marketplace, and bold leadership have in common? They were all driven by one thing: strategic leadership.

 In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we’re joined by John Rossman, former Amazon executive and author of Big Bet Leadership: Your Transformation Playbook for Winning in the Hyper-Digital Era. John led the launch of Amazon Marketplace, now responsible for over half of Amazon’s global sales, and has since guided high-impact transformation at organizations like T-Mobile, the Gates Foundation, and Walmart.

This conversation is all about what it really takes to drive innovation and transformation at scale. From identifying strategic opportunities to breaking through organizational inertia, John offers a behind-the-scenes look at how leaders can make bold moves without losing alignment, culture, or control. Tune in for a sharp, energizing conversation that’ll challenge the way you think about leadership.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-17853087 Tue, 16 Sep 2025 08:00:00 -0400 2680 full false Culture Killers: Addressing the Behaviors Disrupting Today’s Workplace Cultures Culture Killers: Addressing the Behaviors Disrupting Today’s Workplace Cultures A toxic workplace culture can drive out great employees faster than low pay, and nearly 70% of workers say culture directly impacts productivity. So, what’s quietly undermining your organization?

In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, Brett Hoogeveen, Co-Founder of BetterCulture, shares how to spot and stop the behaviors that erode trust, lower morale, and sabotage performance. Brett offers a unique lens on what makes organizations thrive and what tears them apart. From gossip and negativity to leadership blind spots, Brett reveals early warning signs of culture erosion and practical ways to course-correct. You’ll also hear about BetterCulture’s “20 Tenets of Culture” a blueprint for building workplaces people genuinely want to join.

This episode offers actionable insights for leaders who want to build a higher-performing culture.

Here is your link to a free resource mentioned in the episode:https://betterculture.com/bringoutthetalent/. 

]]> A toxic workplace culture can drive out great employees faster than low pay, and nearly 70% of workers say culture directly impacts productivity. So, what’s quietly undermining your organization?

In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, Brett Hoogeveen, Co-Founder of BetterCulture, shares how to spot and stop the behaviors that erode trust, lower morale, and sabotage performance. Brett offers a unique lens on what makes organizations thrive and what tears them apart. From gossip and negativity to leadership blind spots, Brett reveals early warning signs of culture erosion and practical ways to course-correct. You’ll also hear about BetterCulture’s “20 Tenets of Culture” a blueprint for building workplaces people genuinely want to join.

This episode offers actionable insights for leaders who want to build a higher-performing culture.

Here is your link to a free resource mentioned in the episode:https://betterculture.com/bringoutthetalent/. 

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-17658978 Tue, 12 Aug 2025 10:00:00 -0400 2585 full false Experts Leading Experts: Building a Culture of Teaching and Learning Experts Leading Experts: Building a Culture of Teaching and Learning In this episode, we’re joined by Joel Podolny, CEO of Honor Education and the founding Dean of Apple University, for a deep dive into how organizations can build a culture where teaching and learning are embedded into everyday work.

Joel shares insights from his leadership at Apple, Yale, Harvard, and Stanford, focusing on the concept of “experts leading experts.” We examine the challenges and opportunities in empowering top talent to share knowledge, the role of humility and mutual respect, and the steps leaders can take to create meaningful, peer-driven learning environments.

Whether you're shaping learning strategy, driving innovation, or developing your teams, this episode offers practical guidance for cultivating a stronger learning culture at every level.

 

 

]]> In this episode, we’re joined by Joel Podolny, CEO of Honor Education and the founding Dean of Apple University, for a deep dive into how organizations can build a culture where teaching and learning are embedded into everyday work.

Joel shares insights from his leadership at Apple, Yale, Harvard, and Stanford, focusing on the concept of “experts leading experts.” We examine the challenges and opportunities in empowering top talent to share knowledge, the role of humility and mutual respect, and the steps leaders can take to create meaningful, peer-driven learning environments.

Whether you're shaping learning strategy, driving innovation, or developing your teams, this episode offers practical guidance for cultivating a stronger learning culture at every level.

 

 

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-17468222 Tue, 08 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400 2348 full false High-Stakes Performance: How to Thrive Under Pressure High-Stakes Performance: How to Thrive Under Pressure In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we’re joined by Olympic gold medalist and keynote speaker Connor Fields for a powerful conversation on mental toughness and resilience. As the first American to win gold in BMX racing, Connor’s story is one of grit, perseverance, and reinvention, from his historic victory in Rio to the life-changing crash in Tokyo that forced a dramatic career pivot.

 Connor opens up about what it really takes to build mental toughness, not just in elite sports, but in everyday life and leadership. He shares how he stayed grounded through pressure, how he reframed failure, and the mindset shifts that helped him find purpose after adversity.

Whether you’re facing a personal setback, navigating a career change, or simply looking to strengthen your resilience, this episode is full of honest insights and actionable takeaways to help you bounce back stronger.


]]> In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we’re joined by Olympic gold medalist and keynote speaker Connor Fields for a powerful conversation on mental toughness and resilience. As the first American to win gold in BMX racing, Connor’s story is one of grit, perseverance, and reinvention, from his historic victory in Rio to the life-changing crash in Tokyo that forced a dramatic career pivot.

 Connor opens up about what it really takes to build mental toughness, not just in elite sports, but in everyday life and leadership. He shares how he stayed grounded through pressure, how he reframed failure, and the mindset shifts that helped him find purpose after adversity.

Whether you’re facing a personal setback, navigating a career change, or simply looking to strengthen your resilience, this episode is full of honest insights and actionable takeaways to help you bounce back stronger.


]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-17318609 Wed, 11 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0400 3197 full false Resilience Reimagined: Navigating Change and Transformation Resilience Reimagined: Navigating Change and Transformation In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we welcome Chad Foster, author, innovator, and leadership expert known for helping global organizations turn adversity into advantage. Chad shares his remarkable journey of breaking barriers, from creating the first CRM software for the visually impaired to guiding leaders at Google, IBM, and Microsoft. We explore the anatomy of resilience, strategies for navigating change, and practical tools to help individuals and organizations build lasting strength through challenges.

This inspiring conversation will encourage you to rethink what’s possible and reimagine resilience in your own life and work.

 Discover more of Chad’s insights here. 

]]> In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we welcome Chad Foster, author, innovator, and leadership expert known for helping global organizations turn adversity into advantage. Chad shares his remarkable journey of breaking barriers, from creating the first CRM software for the visually impaired to guiding leaders at Google, IBM, and Microsoft. We explore the anatomy of resilience, strategies for navigating change, and practical tools to help individuals and organizations build lasting strength through challenges.

This inspiring conversation will encourage you to rethink what’s possible and reimagine resilience in your own life and work.

 Discover more of Chad’s insights here. 

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-17154591 Tue, 13 May 2025 17:00:00 -0400 2976 7 4 full false AI Meets L&D: Unlocking the Potential of Personalized Learning AI Meets L&D: Unlocking the Potential of Personalized Learning In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we explore the powerful intersection of artificial intelligence and learning and development with Margie Meacham. Margie is the renowned author of AI in Talent Development, learning consultant, and a global expert in applying neuroscience and AI to transform education and performance.

Margie shares how AI is reshaping the learning landscape through personalized learning coaches, immersive simulations, and adaptive platforms. She also unpacks the ethical considerations and strategic opportunities L&D professionals must understand to leverage AI responsibly and effectively.

Whether you’re just beginning to explore AI or looking to enhance your learning programs with smarter, data-driven tools, this conversation is full of forward-thinking insights and actionable takeaways.

]]> In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we explore the powerful intersection of artificial intelligence and learning and development with Margie Meacham. Margie is the renowned author of AI in Talent Development, learning consultant, and a global expert in applying neuroscience and AI to transform education and performance.

Margie shares how AI is reshaping the learning landscape through personalized learning coaches, immersive simulations, and adaptive platforms. She also unpacks the ethical considerations and strategic opportunities L&D professionals must understand to leverage AI responsibly and effectively.

Whether you’re just beginning to explore AI or looking to enhance your learning programs with smarter, data-driven tools, this conversation is full of forward-thinking insights and actionable takeaways.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-16978117 Mon, 14 Apr 2025 16:00:00 -0400 3422 7 3 full false Strategies to Enhance Your Team’s Decision-Making Skills Strategies to Enhance Your Team’s Decision-Making Skills Great teams make great decisions when they’re empowered to do so. In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we welcome Chris Seifert, founder of Enabling Empowerment and author of Enabling Empowerment: A Leadership Playbook for Ending Micromanagement and Empowering Decision-Makers. Together, we discuss how leaders can foster shared leadership, empower decision-makers at every level, and build a culture where creativity and ownership flourish. Chris also shares insights on avoiding common leadership pitfalls, overcoming resistance to change, and preparing for the future of decision-making in a rapidly evolving workplace. Tune in and start transforming the way your team makes decisions.


]]> Great teams make great decisions when they’re empowered to do so. In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we welcome Chris Seifert, founder of Enabling Empowerment and author of Enabling Empowerment: A Leadership Playbook for Ending Micromanagement and Empowering Decision-Makers. Together, we discuss how leaders can foster shared leadership, empower decision-makers at every level, and build a culture where creativity and ownership flourish. Chris also shares insights on avoiding common leadership pitfalls, overcoming resistance to change, and preparing for the future of decision-making in a rapidly evolving workplace. Tune in and start transforming the way your team makes decisions.


]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-16771675 Tue, 11 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0400 2919 7 2 full false AI to Improve Learning and Development Outcomes AI to Improve Learning and Development Outcomes In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we chat with Kayvon Touran, to explore how AI is transforming Learning & Development. Kayvon has been at the forefront of reshaping training strategies, leveraging AI to enhance personalization, engagement, and measurable business impact.

Tune in as we discuss:

✅ How AI is revolutionizing L&D

✅ The challenges and opportunities of AI-powered training

✅ What the future holds for AI in corporate learning

If you’re looking to elevate your L&D initiatives with AI, this episode is packed with insights and actionable takeaways you won’t want to miss!

 

]]> In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we chat with Kayvon Touran, to explore how AI is transforming Learning & Development. Kayvon has been at the forefront of reshaping training strategies, leveraging AI to enhance personalization, engagement, and measurable business impact.

Tune in as we discuss:

✅ How AI is revolutionizing L&D

✅ The challenges and opportunities of AI-powered training

✅ What the future holds for AI in corporate learning

If you’re looking to elevate your L&D initiatives with AI, this episode is packed with insights and actionable takeaways you won’t want to miss!

 

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-16602148 Tue, 11 Feb 2025 08:00:00 -0500 2668 7 1 full false Mental Wellness in the Workplace: Supporting Millennial and Gen Z Employees Mental Wellness in the Workplace: Supporting Millennial and Gen Z Employees Anxiety has become a pervasive issue, especially among younger generations. In fact, according to the American Psychological Association, nearly 62% of Millennials report feeling overwhelmed by stress, and Gen Z-ers are not far behind at 59%. These statistics highlight the pressing need to address mental health challenges in our workplaces and communities.

In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we speak with Dr. Lauren Cook, author of the book, “Generation Anxiety: A Millennial and Gen Z Guide to Staying Afloat in an Uncertain World.” Dr. Cook is a therapist, consultant, speaker, and author who specializes in helping individuals and organizations improve their mental wellness. Dr. Cook's passion for mental health spans all ages and identities, with a particular focus on workplace well-being.

Together, we discuss the unique stressors facing Millennials and Gen Z-ers, the impact of anxiety on learning and productivity, and practical strategies for creating supportive workplace environments. If you're looking to foster a more supportive and productive workplace, this discussion is filled with invaluable insights and actionable takeaways.

]]> Anxiety has become a pervasive issue, especially among younger generations. In fact, according to the American Psychological Association, nearly 62% of Millennials report feeling overwhelmed by stress, and Gen Z-ers are not far behind at 59%. These statistics highlight the pressing need to address mental health challenges in our workplaces and communities.

In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we speak with Dr. Lauren Cook, author of the book, “Generation Anxiety: A Millennial and Gen Z Guide to Staying Afloat in an Uncertain World.” Dr. Cook is a therapist, consultant, speaker, and author who specializes in helping individuals and organizations improve their mental wellness. Dr. Cook's passion for mental health spans all ages and identities, with a particular focus on workplace well-being.

Together, we discuss the unique stressors facing Millennials and Gen Z-ers, the impact of anxiety on learning and productivity, and practical strategies for creating supportive workplace environments. If you're looking to foster a more supportive and productive workplace, this discussion is filled with invaluable insights and actionable takeaways.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-16430943 Tue, 14 Jan 2025 02:00:00 -0500 2645 full false Harnessing Technology for Continuous Learning and Development Harnessing Technology for Continuous Learning and Development In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we’re diving into the transformative power of technology in employee learning and development. Our guest, Bonnie Anderson, Founder and President of Anderson Training and Development, brings her wealth of expertise in instructional design, project management, and technology integration to the conversation. Together, we discuss how AI and video are reshaping continuous learning, creating engaging training experiences, and driving organizational success.

Whether you’re curious about the latest tech trends or seeking actionable tips to elevate your L&D strategy, this episode is filled with valuable insights you won’t want to miss!

]]> In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we’re diving into the transformative power of technology in employee learning and development. Our guest, Bonnie Anderson, Founder and President of Anderson Training and Development, brings her wealth of expertise in instructional design, project management, and technology integration to the conversation. Together, we discuss how AI and video are reshaping continuous learning, creating engaging training experiences, and driving organizational success.

Whether you’re curious about the latest tech trends or seeking actionable tips to elevate your L&D strategy, this episode is filled with valuable insights you won’t want to miss!

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-16253056 Tue, 10 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0500 1666 full false Embracing Failure: How Leaders Can Transform Setbacks into Stepping Stones Embracing Failure: How Leaders Can Transform Setbacks into Stepping Stones In a world where the fear of failure often hinders progress, embracing and learning from our mistakes has become crucial for both personal and professional growth. In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we chat with Jordan George, an award-winning HR leader, to explore how embracing failure can drive personal and professional growth. Jordan shares his "Learning Fail-osophy"—a practical approach rooted in acceptance, non-judgment, and present moment awareness—that helps leaders turn setbacks into steppingstones. 

Join us as we discuss actionable strategies to foster a workplace culture that encourages risk-taking, accountability, and innovation!



]]> In a world where the fear of failure often hinders progress, embracing and learning from our mistakes has become crucial for both personal and professional growth. In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we chat with Jordan George, an award-winning HR leader, to explore how embracing failure can drive personal and professional growth. Jordan shares his "Learning Fail-osophy"—a practical approach rooted in acceptance, non-judgment, and present moment awareness—that helps leaders turn setbacks into steppingstones. 

Join us as we discuss actionable strategies to foster a workplace culture that encourages risk-taking, accountability, and innovation!



]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-16090257 Tue, 12 Nov 2024 02:00:00 -0500 3021 full false Strategies for Building a Thriving Workplace Culture Strategies for Building a Thriving Workplace Culture Workplace culture is a critical factor in modern business success. Engaged employees can boost performance by 202%, while disengaged employees lead to costly turnover—around $2.9 million per day for U.S. companies. In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we’re joined by Dr. Mechelle Roberthon, a CPTD and expert in workplace culture strategy. We’ll explore how cultivating a positive work environment drives organizational success, including key components, trends, and challenges. Dr. Roberthon will share practical insights on building and sustaining an engaged and thriving workforce—critical for any HR leader or organizational professional.

 Don’t miss this fun and lively discussion packed with actionable takeaways for fostering a strong, supportive workplace culture.

 

]]> Workplace culture is a critical factor in modern business success. Engaged employees can boost performance by 202%, while disengaged employees lead to costly turnover—around $2.9 million per day for U.S. companies. In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we’re joined by Dr. Mechelle Roberthon, a CPTD and expert in workplace culture strategy. We’ll explore how cultivating a positive work environment drives organizational success, including key components, trends, and challenges. Dr. Roberthon will share practical insights on building and sustaining an engaged and thriving workforce—critical for any HR leader or organizational professional.

 Don’t miss this fun and lively discussion packed with actionable takeaways for fostering a strong, supportive workplace culture.

 

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-15885909 Tue, 08 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400 2945 full false Unlocking Hidden Potential: The Power of Internal Influencers Unlocking Hidden Potential: The Power of Internal Influencers Did you know that key influencers within organizations can boost company performance by up to 25%? These are the go-to people for the “meeting after the meeting,” and leveraging their potential can transform your business. In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we speak with Jason Anthoine, who brings 35 years of experience working with top executives to inspire and engage employees. Growing up in a blue-collar household, Jason developed a unique approach to making work, and the people who do it, truly matter.

Join us as Jason shares his insights on identifying and working with internal influencers to transform company culture, boost morale, and drive organizational goals. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how to unlock hidden potential within your workforce.

]]> Did you know that key influencers within organizations can boost company performance by up to 25%? These are the go-to people for the “meeting after the meeting,” and leveraging their potential can transform your business. In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we speak with Jason Anthoine, who brings 35 years of experience working with top executives to inspire and engage employees. Growing up in a blue-collar household, Jason developed a unique approach to making work, and the people who do it, truly matter.

Join us as Jason shares his insights on identifying and working with internal influencers to transform company culture, boost morale, and drive organizational goals. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how to unlock hidden potential within your workforce.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-15727264 Tue, 10 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0400 2771 full false AI Essentials: Equipping Professionals for the Future of Work AI Essentials: Equipping Professionals for the Future of Work In an era where AI is reshaping industries and redefining job roles, understanding and leveraging AI has become essential for professionals across various sectors. The World Economic Forum predicts that by 2025, AI will displace 85 million jobs but create 97 million new ones, underscoring the urgent need for digital fluency and AI literacy.

Dr. James Stanger, our guest on this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' is a recognized authority in security, information technology, and workforce development. As the Chief Technology Evangelist at CompTIA, and an award-winning author, blogger, and educator, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to today’s discussion. Join us as Dr. Stanger shares insights on the importance of understanding AI, the practical applications of AI skills in various job roles, and CompTIA’s new AI Essentials Series, designed to prepare individuals and organizations for the future of work.

]]> In an era where AI is reshaping industries and redefining job roles, understanding and leveraging AI has become essential for professionals across various sectors. The World Economic Forum predicts that by 2025, AI will displace 85 million jobs but create 97 million new ones, underscoring the urgent need for digital fluency and AI literacy.

Dr. James Stanger, our guest on this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' is a recognized authority in security, information technology, and workforce development. As the Chief Technology Evangelist at CompTIA, and an award-winning author, blogger, and educator, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to today’s discussion. Join us as Dr. Stanger shares insights on the importance of understanding AI, the practical applications of AI skills in various job roles, and CompTIA’s new AI Essentials Series, designed to prepare individuals and organizations for the future of work.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-15539017 Tue, 06 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0400 2602 full false The Power of Presence: Strategies for Effective Leadership Communication The Power of Presence: Strategies for Effective Leadership Communication In a world where effective communication can make or break a leader, mastering the art of presence and message crafting is more important than ever. In fact, according to a Forbes study, 85% of job success stems from well-developed soft skills, with public speaking and communication being paramount. This underscores the critical importance of not just what you say, but how you say it.

 In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we welcome Christina Butler, President and Lead Facilitator for Speak Training Development. Christina brings a unique perspective, drawing on her extensive experience as a television news reporter to connect with and engage her audience. Join us as we discuss the importance of presence in public speaking, effective communication strategies, and practical tips for managing anxiety. Christina will also share her insights on why presentation skills matter and how leaders can adapt their messages for different audiences, from boardrooms to large conferences.

If you want to refine your presentation skills, boost your confidence speaking in public, or learn how to craft compelling messages as a leader, this discussion promises to be incredibly valuable.

]]> In a world where effective communication can make or break a leader, mastering the art of presence and message crafting is more important than ever. In fact, according to a Forbes study, 85% of job success stems from well-developed soft skills, with public speaking and communication being paramount. This underscores the critical importance of not just what you say, but how you say it.

 In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we welcome Christina Butler, President and Lead Facilitator for Speak Training Development. Christina brings a unique perspective, drawing on her extensive experience as a television news reporter to connect with and engage her audience. Join us as we discuss the importance of presence in public speaking, effective communication strategies, and practical tips for managing anxiety. Christina will also share her insights on why presentation skills matter and how leaders can adapt their messages for different audiences, from boardrooms to large conferences.

If you want to refine your presentation skills, boost your confidence speaking in public, or learn how to craft compelling messages as a leader, this discussion promises to be incredibly valuable.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-15461724 Tue, 23 Jul 2024 11:00:00 -0400 2805 full false Navigating Change Management Navigating Change Management In an era where change is constant, mastering change management is crucial for organizational success. In fact, a McKinsey report found that 73% of organizations fail to achieve substantial returns on their change management investments, highlighting the need for effective leadership during transitions. In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we welcome longtime TTA partner Joe Jordan. As a speaker, corporate trainer, author, and business advisor, Joe has spent over 30 years helping companies worldwide accelerate business transformation and enhance performance. 

In this conversation, Joe will share his insights on change management and communication, equipping you with the knowledge to guide your organization through change. If you're looking to steer your company toward sustained growth and success amidst the uncertainty of change, you won't want to miss this episode.

]]> In an era where change is constant, mastering change management is crucial for organizational success. In fact, a McKinsey report found that 73% of organizations fail to achieve substantial returns on their change management investments, highlighting the need for effective leadership during transitions. In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we welcome longtime TTA partner Joe Jordan. As a speaker, corporate trainer, author, and business advisor, Joe has spent over 30 years helping companies worldwide accelerate business transformation and enhance performance. 

In this conversation, Joe will share his insights on change management and communication, equipping you with the knowledge to guide your organization through change. If you're looking to steer your company toward sustained growth and success amidst the uncertainty of change, you won't want to miss this episode.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-15385006 Tue, 09 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0400 2998 6 5 full false Leadership Development: Strategies for Sustaining Growth and Adaptability Leadership Development: Strategies for Sustaining Growth and Adaptability In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we are joined by Phil Cicio, a seasoned TTA consultant and Leadership Development expert. Join us as we discuss our off-the-shelf comprehensive leadership development programs – ‘Strategies for Sustaining Growth and Adaptability.’ These leadership development programs are specifically designed to empower new and emerging leaders, and mid-level leaders.

 These impactful programs are founded on real-world success and experience in cultivating leaders across diverse industries and organizational sizes. They are aimed at enhancing leadership skills and unlocking the full potential of individuals who are poised to make a significant impact in their organizations. With a global reach, TTA's leadership development programs have been implemented in 47 countries, engaging over 1.74 million participants.

 Wherever you are in your leadership journey, this episode is sure to provide you with valuable insights to help you chart your path to leadership success.

 

]]> In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we are joined by Phil Cicio, a seasoned TTA consultant and Leadership Development expert. Join us as we discuss our off-the-shelf comprehensive leadership development programs – ‘Strategies for Sustaining Growth and Adaptability.’ These leadership development programs are specifically designed to empower new and emerging leaders, and mid-level leaders.

 These impactful programs are founded on real-world success and experience in cultivating leaders across diverse industries and organizational sizes. They are aimed at enhancing leadership skills and unlocking the full potential of individuals who are poised to make a significant impact in their organizations. With a global reach, TTA's leadership development programs have been implemented in 47 countries, engaging over 1.74 million participants.

 Wherever you are in your leadership journey, this episode is sure to provide you with valuable insights to help you chart your path to leadership success.

 

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-15276241 Wed, 19 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0400 2888 full false Aligning L&D for Impact: Driving Corporate Goals with Strategic OKRs Aligning L&D for Impact: Driving Corporate Goals with Strategic OKRs In today's ever-changing business landscape, aligning learning and development with organizational goals is not just strategic, it’s essential. In fact, according to an ATD report, organizations that have strong alignment between L&D and business goals achieve 13% higher mean revenue per employee.

In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we welcome Dr. Jessica Brown, CEO & Founder of Cultivate2Generate. With a background spanning 15 years in consulting and coaching, Dr. Brown has dedicated her career to empowering organizations by enriching their people and enhancing their systems. We will dive into how strategic OKRs can effectively bridge the gap between L&D initiatives and broader corporate goals. We discuss strategies to foster an engaging workplace culture that aligns with long-term organizational success.

Tune in and gain valuable insights on this powerful business strategy tool that will keep your team focused on the most important areas to achieve company goals and success.

]]> In today's ever-changing business landscape, aligning learning and development with organizational goals is not just strategic, it’s essential. In fact, according to an ATD report, organizations that have strong alignment between L&D and business goals achieve 13% higher mean revenue per employee.

In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we welcome Dr. Jessica Brown, CEO & Founder of Cultivate2Generate. With a background spanning 15 years in consulting and coaching, Dr. Brown has dedicated her career to empowering organizations by enriching their people and enhancing their systems. We will dive into how strategic OKRs can effectively bridge the gap between L&D initiatives and broader corporate goals. We discuss strategies to foster an engaging workplace culture that aligns with long-term organizational success.

Tune in and gain valuable insights on this powerful business strategy tool that will keep your team focused on the most important areas to achieve company goals and success.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-15190452 Tue, 04 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0400 2674 full false Empowering Leadership: Fostering Workplace Confidence Empowering Leadership: Fostering Workplace Confidence Unlocking the secret to success often begins with a single step: building confidence. It's a critical component not just for individual growth, but as the cornerstone of effective leadership. In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we are joined by Velera Wilson, founder and CEO of Positive Identity, a company that helps people gain the skills to lead with greater confidence in their career. Together we dive into the heart of leadership, confidence, and the transformative power of both in the workplace. We explore the ripple effect of a leader's confidence on their team, the journey of building a resilient self-assurance that empowers individuals to lead effectively, and so much more.

 Tune in as we unravel the tools leaders need to navigate their roles with confidence and inspire those around them to do the same.

]]> Unlocking the secret to success often begins with a single step: building confidence. It's a critical component not just for individual growth, but as the cornerstone of effective leadership. In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we are joined by Velera Wilson, founder and CEO of Positive Identity, a company that helps people gain the skills to lead with greater confidence in their career. Together we dive into the heart of leadership, confidence, and the transformative power of both in the workplace. We explore the ripple effect of a leader's confidence on their team, the journey of building a resilient self-assurance that empowers individuals to lead effectively, and so much more.

 Tune in as we unravel the tools leaders need to navigate their roles with confidence and inspire those around them to do the same.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-15066242 Tue, 14 May 2024 09:00:00 -0400 2097 full false Instructional Design Strategies for Organizational Growth Instructional Design Strategies for Organizational Growth In an era where knowledge becomes obsolete almost overnight, the continuous investment in learning and development has proven essential for organizational agility and growth. In fact, a LinkedIn Workplace Learning Report revealed that 51% of companies globally are increasing their spend on learning and development, reflecting a widespread recognition of its critical role in achieving business success. As we navigate this era of rapid change, the strategic integration of instructional design into corporate learning initiatives has never been more important.

 In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we are joined by Dr. Kate Hixson. With over 15 years of experience, Kate has crafted learning experiences for an impressive array of clients, from multinational corporations to global non-profits and tech giants. She has a Ph.D. in learning design, with a remarkable dissertation completed with NASA, focusing on teamwork training for the Astronaut Corp. From boardrooms to space stations, her expertise in learning design is truly out of this world.

Together we discuss instructional design strategies for organizational growth, including captivating corporate learners, leveraging AI, and strategically scaling learning teams. Kate will also offer her insights on integrating new technologies, measuring learning effectiveness, and pinpointing the critical skills needed for the future workforce.

So, tune in if you're looking to inspire your team, innovate your learning programs, or navigate the future of work, this episode is filled with invaluable insights.

]]> In an era where knowledge becomes obsolete almost overnight, the continuous investment in learning and development has proven essential for organizational agility and growth. In fact, a LinkedIn Workplace Learning Report revealed that 51% of companies globally are increasing their spend on learning and development, reflecting a widespread recognition of its critical role in achieving business success. As we navigate this era of rapid change, the strategic integration of instructional design into corporate learning initiatives has never been more important.

 In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we are joined by Dr. Kate Hixson. With over 15 years of experience, Kate has crafted learning experiences for an impressive array of clients, from multinational corporations to global non-profits and tech giants. She has a Ph.D. in learning design, with a remarkable dissertation completed with NASA, focusing on teamwork training for the Astronaut Corp. From boardrooms to space stations, her expertise in learning design is truly out of this world.

Together we discuss instructional design strategies for organizational growth, including captivating corporate learners, leveraging AI, and strategically scaling learning teams. Kate will also offer her insights on integrating new technologies, measuring learning effectiveness, and pinpointing the critical skills needed for the future workforce.

So, tune in if you're looking to inspire your team, innovate your learning programs, or navigate the future of work, this episode is filled with invaluable insights.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-14982255 Tue, 30 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0400 2803 full false Work Life Balance for Leaders Work Life Balance for Leaders According to recent studies, a staggering 70% of employees report struggling with work-life balance. This statistic highlights the pressing need for leaders to address this issue and create supportive environments for their teams.

In this episode “Bring Out the Talent,” we discuss effective strategies to help leaders navigate the delicate balance between work and personal life with our guest, Phil Cicio. Phil, a certified high-performance coach with over 20 years of experience from small companies to fortune 500, brings his expertise to shed light on the challenges and opportunities associated with work-life balance. We will explore practical strategies that leaders can implement to foster a healthier and more harmonious integration of work and personal life because achieving work-life balance is not solely an individual pursuit but a collective effort that starts with leaders.

Tune in for a compelling conversation that will equip you with strategies for fostering a healthier work-life balance.

]]> According to recent studies, a staggering 70% of employees report struggling with work-life balance. This statistic highlights the pressing need for leaders to address this issue and create supportive environments for their teams.

In this episode “Bring Out the Talent,” we discuss effective strategies to help leaders navigate the delicate balance between work and personal life with our guest, Phil Cicio. Phil, a certified high-performance coach with over 20 years of experience from small companies to fortune 500, brings his expertise to shed light on the challenges and opportunities associated with work-life balance. We will explore practical strategies that leaders can implement to foster a healthier and more harmonious integration of work and personal life because achieving work-life balance is not solely an individual pursuit but a collective effort that starts with leaders.

Tune in for a compelling conversation that will equip you with strategies for fostering a healthier work-life balance.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-14853277 Tue, 16 Apr 2024 01:00:00 -0400 3212 full false The Learner's Journey: Fostering Engagement at Every Turn The Learner's Journey: Fostering Engagement at Every Turn A recent study by Udemy revealed an interesting fact: 80% of employees feel more engaged at work when they're learning new skills. Yet, despite this clear desire to learn, keeping learners truly engaged remains a significant challenge for L&D professionals. It's not just about providing learning opportunities - it's about making those opportunities engaging and relevant, so that learning becomes not just a task, but a meaningful part of every employee's work life.

 In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we welcome Adam Weisblatt, a learning strategist known for his dedication to crafting learner-centered experiences. With an incredible background spanning 20 years in various facets of workplace learning, Adam brings a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to the table. His journey, which has led him from being an instructor to an eLearning designer and programmer, has equipped him with unique insights into the creation and implementation of engaging projects.

 Tune in as we discuss a range of topics, from harnessing AI to tailor learning experiences to navigating the intricate balance between digital and in-person training environments.

]]> A recent study by Udemy revealed an interesting fact: 80% of employees feel more engaged at work when they're learning new skills. Yet, despite this clear desire to learn, keeping learners truly engaged remains a significant challenge for L&D professionals. It's not just about providing learning opportunities - it's about making those opportunities engaging and relevant, so that learning becomes not just a task, but a meaningful part of every employee's work life.

 In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we welcome Adam Weisblatt, a learning strategist known for his dedication to crafting learner-centered experiences. With an incredible background spanning 20 years in various facets of workplace learning, Adam brings a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to the table. His journey, which has led him from being an instructor to an eLearning designer and programmer, has equipped him with unique insights into the creation and implementation of engaging projects.

 Tune in as we discuss a range of topics, from harnessing AI to tailor learning experiences to navigating the intricate balance between digital and in-person training environments.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-14810553 Tue, 02 Apr 2024 01:00:00 -0400 2114 5 66 full false Beyond Just Bricks: Unleashing Potential with Lego Serious Play Beyond Just Bricks: Unleashing Potential with Lego Serious Play Imagine a workspace filled with the colorful, familiar shapes of Lego bricks. Now, imagine these aren't just for play, but powerful tools for learning, communication, and problem-solving. This is the world of Lego Serious Play, a methodology that harnesses the power of play to unlock creativity, foster collaboration, and solve complex problems in corporate settings. Lego Serious Play has evolved into a widely used tool in workshops and team-building sessions across various industries. It's not just about building models; it's about constructing ideas, sharing stories, and building a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing teams and organizations.

In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we are joined by Lynn Turner, a Lego Serious Play facilitator, who will share insights and experiences from her journey in bringing this innovative approach to organizations. Whether you're a skeptic of unconventional learning methods or a believer in the power of play, today's episode is bound to offer you some valuable insights.

So, tune in and explore how Lego Serious Play is more than just play, it's a serious tool for learning, development, and transformation in the adult world.

 

]]> Imagine a workspace filled with the colorful, familiar shapes of Lego bricks. Now, imagine these aren't just for play, but powerful tools for learning, communication, and problem-solving. This is the world of Lego Serious Play, a methodology that harnesses the power of play to unlock creativity, foster collaboration, and solve complex problems in corporate settings. Lego Serious Play has evolved into a widely used tool in workshops and team-building sessions across various industries. It's not just about building models; it's about constructing ideas, sharing stories, and building a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing teams and organizations.

In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we are joined by Lynn Turner, a Lego Serious Play facilitator, who will share insights and experiences from her journey in bringing this innovative approach to organizations. Whether you're a skeptic of unconventional learning methods or a believer in the power of play, today's episode is bound to offer you some valuable insights.

So, tune in and explore how Lego Serious Play is more than just play, it's a serious tool for learning, development, and transformation in the adult world.

 

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-14717258 Tue, 19 Mar 2024 02:00:00 -0400 2825 5 65 full false Creating a Culture of Dignity Creating a Culture of Dignity A workplace culture rooted in dignity is not merely "a nice to have" but a critical component for attracting and retaining talent, enhancing engagement, and boosting overall performance. The significance of dignity within the corporate landscape is undeniable, with 93% recognizing its critical importance for organizational success.

Although dignity and respect are often considered synonymous, they each play a distinct and vital role in shaping our interactions at work. Understanding the differences between them can profoundly transform our communication, leadership styles, and teamwork.

In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we're joined by Ralph Campbell, an expert in organizational behavior and the creator of the Dignity Index Assessment. We will explore the differences between dignity and respect, and why these distinctions matter. We'll discuss the challenges leaders face in fostering a culture of dignity and learn how organizations can genuinely integrate these values into their everyday practices. Additionally, we'll dive into how these principles can lead to better communication, stronger teams, and an improved company culture.

Tune in to gain valuable perspectives on nurturing a culture of dignity in the workplace.

]]> A workplace culture rooted in dignity is not merely "a nice to have" but a critical component for attracting and retaining talent, enhancing engagement, and boosting overall performance. The significance of dignity within the corporate landscape is undeniable, with 93% recognizing its critical importance for organizational success.

Although dignity and respect are often considered synonymous, they each play a distinct and vital role in shaping our interactions at work. Understanding the differences between them can profoundly transform our communication, leadership styles, and teamwork.

In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we're joined by Ralph Campbell, an expert in organizational behavior and the creator of the Dignity Index Assessment. We will explore the differences between dignity and respect, and why these distinctions matter. We'll discuss the challenges leaders face in fostering a culture of dignity and learn how organizations can genuinely integrate these values into their everyday practices. Additionally, we'll dive into how these principles can lead to better communication, stronger teams, and an improved company culture.

Tune in to gain valuable perspectives on nurturing a culture of dignity in the workplace.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-14631166 Tue, 05 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0500 2923 5 64 full false Aligning Personal Purpose with Professional Leadership Aligning Personal Purpose with Professional Leadership Most of us are familiar with the term IQ (intelligent quotient) and EQ (Emotional Quotient) – but how familiar are you with your MQ or Motivational Quotient? MQ is the driving force behind our ambitions and growth, influenced by factors like goals, confidence, personality, and attitude. But while many leaders pay special attention to IQ and EQ, ones MQ can differentiate a truly successful leader from the rest.

This episode of ‘Bring Out the Talent’ welcomes Sam Caballero, a seasoned Talent Development expert, Pivotn co-founder, CEO, and Coach, and a key figure in talent cultivation at the Air Force Reserve Command and the International Coaching Federation. Together, we'll discuss the pivotal role of personal purpose and motivation in steering impactful leadership, the significance of MQ in navigating leadership challenges, and how aligning personal values with professional responsibilities can elevate leadership effectiveness. So, tune in to elevate your leadership game by harnessing your motivational intelligence.

]]> Most of us are familiar with the term IQ (intelligent quotient) and EQ (Emotional Quotient) – but how familiar are you with your MQ or Motivational Quotient? MQ is the driving force behind our ambitions and growth, influenced by factors like goals, confidence, personality, and attitude. But while many leaders pay special attention to IQ and EQ, ones MQ can differentiate a truly successful leader from the rest.

This episode of ‘Bring Out the Talent’ welcomes Sam Caballero, a seasoned Talent Development expert, Pivotn co-founder, CEO, and Coach, and a key figure in talent cultivation at the Air Force Reserve Command and the International Coaching Federation. Together, we'll discuss the pivotal role of personal purpose and motivation in steering impactful leadership, the significance of MQ in navigating leadership challenges, and how aligning personal values with professional responsibilities can elevate leadership effectiveness. So, tune in to elevate your leadership game by harnessing your motivational intelligence.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-14537735 Tue, 20 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0500 2858 5 63 full false The Future of Learning: AR/VR’s Evolving Role in Corporate Training The Future of Learning: AR/VR’s Evolving Role in Corporate Training AR and VR are no longer a trending novelty utilized by the top 1%. These immersive technologies are rapidly being embraced by organizations worldwide. In fact, a recent survey found that 82% of company executives anticipate incorporating immersive technologies into their business models within the next three years. In this episode of ‘Bring Out the Talent,’ we are joined by Jason Morris, Extended Reality (XR) Manager at CrossTrainer, to discuss the future of learning and AR and VR’s evolving role in corporate training. So, tune in for an insightful journey into the future of workplace!

]]> AR and VR are no longer a trending novelty utilized by the top 1%. These immersive technologies are rapidly being embraced by organizations worldwide. In fact, a recent survey found that 82% of company executives anticipate incorporating immersive technologies into their business models within the next three years. In this episode of ‘Bring Out the Talent,’ we are joined by Jason Morris, Extended Reality (XR) Manager at CrossTrainer, to discuss the future of learning and AR and VR’s evolving role in corporate training. So, tune in for an insightful journey into the future of workplace!

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-14449892 Tue, 06 Feb 2024 09:00:00 -0500 2143 5 62 full false The Power of Transformational Leadership in the Workplace The Power of Transformational Leadership in the Workplace Leadership can make a monumental difference in organizational success. In fact, a McKinsey report found that organizations with effective transformational leaders are 3.5 times more likely to outperform their peers. These leaders also foster environments with higher employee engagement and a significant increase in productivity. In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we are joined by Ely Caputo to learn more about transformational leadership and its impact on organizational success. Ely is the cofounder and CEO of 4D Associates International and a certified Master Coach. With more than 18 years of experience in transformational leadership, Ely discusses the differences between transformational and transactional leadership, highlighting the profound impact transformational leadership can have in reshaping organizational culture and enhancing employee engagement. So, tune in to gain valuable insights into the power of transformational leadership and its important role in the ever-evolving landscape of workplace dynamics.

]]> Leadership can make a monumental difference in organizational success. In fact, a McKinsey report found that organizations with effective transformational leaders are 3.5 times more likely to outperform their peers. These leaders also foster environments with higher employee engagement and a significant increase in productivity. In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, we are joined by Ely Caputo to learn more about transformational leadership and its impact on organizational success. Ely is the cofounder and CEO of 4D Associates International and a certified Master Coach. With more than 18 years of experience in transformational leadership, Ely discusses the differences between transformational and transactional leadership, highlighting the profound impact transformational leadership can have in reshaping organizational culture and enhancing employee engagement. So, tune in to gain valuable insights into the power of transformational leadership and its important role in the ever-evolving landscape of workplace dynamics.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-14360781 Tue, 23 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0500 2407 5 61 full false Career Mapping: Navigating Today's Dynamic Work Environment Career Mapping: Navigating Today's Dynamic Work Environment A Gartner study found that less than one-third of employees have a clear plan for their career progression. This gap can lead to issues like high employee turnover, lack of engagement, skill shortages, and disrupted succession plans, impacting an organization's overall performance. In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,’ we are joined by Paul MacLoughlin, a seasoned Leadership Development Consultant and Executive Coach with a PhD in Instructional Design and Educational Technology. Together, we discuss career mapping, focusing on fostering career growth, aligning personal goals with company objectives, and identifying key future workplace skills.

 Tune in to discover strategies for integrating continuous learning into your career trajectory and effectively navigating career changes with career mapping insights.

]]> A Gartner study found that less than one-third of employees have a clear plan for their career progression. This gap can lead to issues like high employee turnover, lack of engagement, skill shortages, and disrupted succession plans, impacting an organization's overall performance. In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,’ we are joined by Paul MacLoughlin, a seasoned Leadership Development Consultant and Executive Coach with a PhD in Instructional Design and Educational Technology. Together, we discuss career mapping, focusing on fostering career growth, aligning personal goals with company objectives, and identifying key future workplace skills.

 Tune in to discover strategies for integrating continuous learning into your career trajectory and effectively navigating career changes with career mapping insights.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-14277870 Tue, 09 Jan 2024 07:00:00 -0500 2642 full false Emotional Intelligence in Action: Shaping Leaders and Cultures Emotional Intelligence in Action: Shaping Leaders and Cultures Emotional Intelligence is more than just a buzzword in today's workplace. It's an essential skill set that influences our interactions, decision-making, and leadership styles. In fact, studies have shown that Emotional Intelligence is responsible for 58% of performance in all types of jobs, underscoring its important role across various professional settings.

 In this episode of ‘Bring Out the Talent,’ we are joined by Joel Silverstone, the founder of ‘This Feels Right.’ Joel, with over two decades of experience, offers insights into the role and application of Emotional Intelligence in the workplace. We discuss the evolution of EI and its important role in personal growth, effective leadership, and shaping organizational cultures. Tune in for and learn practical ways to harness Emotional Intelligence for personal and organizational success.

 

]]> Emotional Intelligence is more than just a buzzword in today's workplace. It's an essential skill set that influences our interactions, decision-making, and leadership styles. In fact, studies have shown that Emotional Intelligence is responsible for 58% of performance in all types of jobs, underscoring its important role across various professional settings.

 In this episode of ‘Bring Out the Talent,’ we are joined by Joel Silverstone, the founder of ‘This Feels Right.’ Joel, with over two decades of experience, offers insights into the role and application of Emotional Intelligence in the workplace. We discuss the evolution of EI and its important role in personal growth, effective leadership, and shaping organizational cultures. Tune in for and learn practical ways to harness Emotional Intelligence for personal and organizational success.

 

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-14131305 Tue, 12 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0500 2435 full false Navigating the First Mile: Best Practices in Onboarding Excellence Navigating the First Mile: Best Practices in Onboarding Excellence Have you ever thought about the significant impact the 'right start' can have on a new hire's journey? Research, including studies from the Brandon Hall Group, shows that a strong onboarding process can improve new hire retention by 82% and increase productivity by over 70%.

In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we discuss the transformative best practices for onboarding and their profound effects on your company's future. We're joined by Tiffany Lymon, a seasoned expert in workplace culture and team development. Tiffany shares her unique insights on onboarding, framing it as a crucial 'fit test' for both the employer and the new hire. We explore the often-overlooked pitfalls in onboarding processes and strategize ways to sustain the positive momentum from a great start throughout an employee’s career.

Don't miss out on this episode packed with practical tips and strategic advice that can revolutionize how you welcome new talent!

]]> Have you ever thought about the significant impact the 'right start' can have on a new hire's journey? Research, including studies from the Brandon Hall Group, shows that a strong onboarding process can improve new hire retention by 82% and increase productivity by over 70%.

In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we discuss the transformative best practices for onboarding and their profound effects on your company's future. We're joined by Tiffany Lymon, a seasoned expert in workplace culture and team development. Tiffany shares her unique insights on onboarding, framing it as a crucial 'fit test' for both the employer and the new hire. We explore the often-overlooked pitfalls in onboarding processes and strategize ways to sustain the positive momentum from a great start throughout an employee’s career.

Don't miss out on this episode packed with practical tips and strategic advice that can revolutionize how you welcome new talent!

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-14044385 Tue, 28 Nov 2023 01:00:00 -0500 3286 full false Mentorship Matters: Closing the Gap in Professional Development Mentorship Matters: Closing the Gap in Professional Development Mentorship has become a top priority for most L&D programs, with studies highlighting its benefits for career growth, self-confidence, and mental health. Despite its clear advantages, a mere 37% of professionals currently engage with a mentor, indicating a vast potential for development. In this episode of ‘Bring Out the Talent’ we’re joined by Stacy Golden, an expert in mentorship and organizational development. Together we explore the significant impact of mentorship in the workplace. Our conversation will also highlight how mentorship programs are not just beneficial for individuals but are crucial for organizational health, aiding talent retention and nurturing leadership — essential components for long-term corporate vitality.

 So, tune in and discover how mentorship is shaping the future of work!

 


]]> Mentorship has become a top priority for most L&D programs, with studies highlighting its benefits for career growth, self-confidence, and mental health. Despite its clear advantages, a mere 37% of professionals currently engage with a mentor, indicating a vast potential for development. In this episode of ‘Bring Out the Talent’ we’re joined by Stacy Golden, an expert in mentorship and organizational development. Together we explore the significant impact of mentorship in the workplace. Our conversation will also highlight how mentorship programs are not just beneficial for individuals but are crucial for organizational health, aiding talent retention and nurturing leadership — essential components for long-term corporate vitality.

 So, tune in and discover how mentorship is shaping the future of work!

 


]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-13967078 Tue, 14 Nov 2023 01:00:00 -0500 2528 full false The Value of Design Thinking in Learning & Development The Value of Design Thinking in Learning & Development Seeking impactful strategies to elevate your employees' learning experiences? Dive into the world of Design Thinking—a method deeply anchored in catering to the unique needs of each learner. This progressive approach is redefining the landscape of Learning and Development, empowering professionals to craft solutions that amplify engagement, foster creativity, and deliver concrete results.

Join us in the latest episode of “Bring Out the Talent” as we discuss the transformative role of design thinking.  To help us better navigate design thinking, we're joined by Jason Schneider, the visionary Founder and Director of Learning Engineering at Legacy Learning Consulting. With Jason's depth of expertise, discover how design thinking can revolutionize your approach to employee growth and development.

 Tune in to redefine and elevate your learning approach!

 

]]> Seeking impactful strategies to elevate your employees' learning experiences? Dive into the world of Design Thinking—a method deeply anchored in catering to the unique needs of each learner. This progressive approach is redefining the landscape of Learning and Development, empowering professionals to craft solutions that amplify engagement, foster creativity, and deliver concrete results.

Join us in the latest episode of “Bring Out the Talent” as we discuss the transformative role of design thinking.  To help us better navigate design thinking, we're joined by Jason Schneider, the visionary Founder and Director of Learning Engineering at Legacy Learning Consulting. With Jason's depth of expertise, discover how design thinking can revolutionize your approach to employee growth and development.

 Tune in to redefine and elevate your learning approach!

 

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-13879833 Tue, 31 Oct 2023 07:00:00 -0400 2444 full false Virtual Events: Captivating Audiences from Start to Finish Virtual Events: Captivating Audiences from Start to Finish Since 2020, there has been a 75% surge in organizations using virtual platforms like Zoom and Teams for conduct training. However, many organizations have yet to address the technical nuances that can disrupt training sessions, leading to frustrations, poor delivery, and dissatisfied students. In this episode of "Bring Out the Talent," we have a conversation with Matt Granato, the Managing Director of MG Creative Group, a master virtual session producer supporting companies with their virtual deliveries. With the increased demand for virtual deliveries, we discuss the art of curating engaging and immersive virtual experiences, where Matt shares valuable tips and best practices for effective virtual session production.

]]> Since 2020, there has been a 75% surge in organizations using virtual platforms like Zoom and Teams for conduct training. However, many organizations have yet to address the technical nuances that can disrupt training sessions, leading to frustrations, poor delivery, and dissatisfied students. In this episode of "Bring Out the Talent," we have a conversation with Matt Granato, the Managing Director of MG Creative Group, a master virtual session producer supporting companies with their virtual deliveries. With the increased demand for virtual deliveries, we discuss the art of curating engaging and immersive virtual experiences, where Matt shares valuable tips and best practices for effective virtual session production.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-13793857 Tue, 17 Oct 2023 08:00:00 -0400 2276 full false Promoting Within: Navigating New Leadership Roles Promoting Within: Navigating New Leadership Roles Did you know that approximately 46% of leadership transitions fail? Transitioning from a colleague to a leadership role can be an immense challenge. This leads us to a crucial question: How can we empower new leaders to successfully navigate the leap from peer to leader? In this episode of "Bring Out the Talent," we discuss the intricacies of transitioning from a peer to a leader with our guest, Dr. Karen Jacobson. Dr. Jacobson, the visionary behind Aligned Leadership Academy, brings a wealth of experience in neuroscience and team development, and she has a track record of transforming organizations into competitive powerhouses. During our conversation, Dr. Jacobson shares insights on adapting leadership styles, building trust within diverse teams, and bridging generational differences.

Join us as we explore effective strategies for new leaders to smoothly transition from being buddies to leaders, maintaining peer relationships, and navigating changes without burning bridges

]]> Did you know that approximately 46% of leadership transitions fail? Transitioning from a colleague to a leadership role can be an immense challenge. This leads us to a crucial question: How can we empower new leaders to successfully navigate the leap from peer to leader? In this episode of "Bring Out the Talent," we discuss the intricacies of transitioning from a peer to a leader with our guest, Dr. Karen Jacobson. Dr. Jacobson, the visionary behind Aligned Leadership Academy, brings a wealth of experience in neuroscience and team development, and she has a track record of transforming organizations into competitive powerhouses. During our conversation, Dr. Jacobson shares insights on adapting leadership styles, building trust within diverse teams, and bridging generational differences.

Join us as we explore effective strategies for new leaders to smoothly transition from being buddies to leaders, maintaining peer relationships, and navigating changes without burning bridges

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-13707469 Tue, 03 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0400 2358 full false Redefining the Traditional Workweek: Four-Day Work Week Success Stories Redefining the Traditional Workweek: Four-Day Work Week Success Stories As more research and case studies emerge, the evidence supporting the benefits of a shorter workweek continues to grow, making it an increasingly popular choice for forward-thinking organizations. However, despite the positive outcomes, the majority of companies still struggle with the idea of adopting a four-day work week.

In this episode of “Bring Out the Talent” we explore the findings from a 12-month study on a four-day workweek - unveiling its impact on success rates, revenue, well-being, and more. Joining us to discuss this popular topic is our returning guest, Jordan George. Jordan is a Principal Consultant and Head of Client Solutions at Curium Solutions US, an award-winning business transformation consultancy working with global brands. 

 Tune in as we arm you with actionable insights for navigating this transformative shift.

 

]]> As more research and case studies emerge, the evidence supporting the benefits of a shorter workweek continues to grow, making it an increasingly popular choice for forward-thinking organizations. However, despite the positive outcomes, the majority of companies still struggle with the idea of adopting a four-day work week.

In this episode of “Bring Out the Talent” we explore the findings from a 12-month study on a four-day workweek - unveiling its impact on success rates, revenue, well-being, and more. Joining us to discuss this popular topic is our returning guest, Jordan George. Jordan is a Principal Consultant and Head of Client Solutions at Curium Solutions US, an award-winning business transformation consultancy working with global brands. 

 Tune in as we arm you with actionable insights for navigating this transformative shift.

 

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-13576559 Tue, 12 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0400 2716 full false Leadership Burnout: Self-Care for Worn Out Leaders Leadership Burnout: Self-Care for Worn Out Leaders Did you know that a staggering 60% of leaders experience burnout by the end of each day? Another study revealed that an astonishing 87% of leaders reported regularly switching between three or more roles throughout their workday. These statistics highlight the need for leaders to prioritize their own mental and physical well-being. What impact will this have on the organization if your leaders are burnt out?

 In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we are joined by Dr. Allessandria Polizzi, CEO, and owner of Verdant Consulting, to better understand the importance of self-care for leaders. With her extensive expertise, Al shares valuable strategies that leaders can implement to enhance their overall well-being, effectively manage stress, and maintain resilience in the face of challenges.

 Tune in as we discuss this very important topic and learn strategies on how to prioritize our mental and physical well-being with Dr. Allessandria Polizzi.


]]> Did you know that a staggering 60% of leaders experience burnout by the end of each day? Another study revealed that an astonishing 87% of leaders reported regularly switching between three or more roles throughout their workday. These statistics highlight the need for leaders to prioritize their own mental and physical well-being. What impact will this have on the organization if your leaders are burnt out?

 In this episode of 'Bring Out the Talent,' we are joined by Dr. Allessandria Polizzi, CEO, and owner of Verdant Consulting, to better understand the importance of self-care for leaders. With her extensive expertise, Al shares valuable strategies that leaders can implement to enhance their overall well-being, effectively manage stress, and maintain resilience in the face of challenges.

 Tune in as we discuss this very important topic and learn strategies on how to prioritize our mental and physical well-being with Dr. Allessandria Polizzi.


]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-13449474 Tue, 22 Aug 2023 07:00:00 -0400 2775 full false Navigating Sales Challenges: Insights and Solutions Navigating Sales Challenges: Insights and Solutions In today's competitive market, sales professionals encounter numerous obstacles that can significantly impact their success. However, with the right strategies and techniques, salespeople can effectively overcome these common challenges and build strong relationships with potential customers. In this episode of "Bring Out the Talent," we are joined by Tom Hurley, the managing partner at OwenCollier Partners, a leading sales consulting company. Tom shares key insights to help salespeople flourish in the face of changing market conditions and customer preferences.

Tune in to this week's episode of "Bring Out the Talent" and learn practical tips and expert insights that will empower sales professionals to be more successful and thrive in today's competitive market.

]]> In today's competitive market, sales professionals encounter numerous obstacles that can significantly impact their success. However, with the right strategies and techniques, salespeople can effectively overcome these common challenges and build strong relationships with potential customers. In this episode of "Bring Out the Talent," we are joined by Tom Hurley, the managing partner at OwenCollier Partners, a leading sales consulting company. Tom shares key insights to help salespeople flourish in the face of changing market conditions and customer preferences.

Tune in to this week's episode of "Bring Out the Talent" and learn practical tips and expert insights that will empower sales professionals to be more successful and thrive in today's competitive market.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-13367666 Tue, 08 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0400 2693 full false Harnessing Individual Strengths for Collective Success: Insights from CliftonStrengths Coaching Harnessing Individual Strengths for Collective Success: Insights from CliftonStrengths Coaching Celebrate our momentous 50th episode of Bring Out the Talent with an inspiring exploration of individual strengths and their profound impact on collective success. Join us as we dive into the world of CliftonStrengths coaching, where we uncover the transformative power that lies within each of us.

In this episode, we chat with Kisha Dixon, a certified CliftonStrengths coach who has empowered countless individuals and teams to reach their full potential. Discover the significance of self-awareness, and how embracing our unique strengths can be the key to unlocking unparalleled synergy within groups and organizations. Whether you're an entrepreneur, team leader, or simply someone seeking personal growth, this episode promises invaluable insights to elevate your understanding of self and others. Embrace the power of individuality and learn how harnessing diverse strengths can propel us towards collective achievement.

Join us as we mark our 50th episode in true podcast style, with a thought-provoking conversation that illuminates the path to harnessing individual strengths for a future filled with limitless possibilities.

 

 

]]> Celebrate our momentous 50th episode of Bring Out the Talent with an inspiring exploration of individual strengths and their profound impact on collective success. Join us as we dive into the world of CliftonStrengths coaching, where we uncover the transformative power that lies within each of us.

In this episode, we chat with Kisha Dixon, a certified CliftonStrengths coach who has empowered countless individuals and teams to reach their full potential. Discover the significance of self-awareness, and how embracing our unique strengths can be the key to unlocking unparalleled synergy within groups and organizations. Whether you're an entrepreneur, team leader, or simply someone seeking personal growth, this episode promises invaluable insights to elevate your understanding of self and others. Embrace the power of individuality and learn how harnessing diverse strengths can propel us towards collective achievement.

Join us as we mark our 50th episode in true podcast style, with a thought-provoking conversation that illuminates the path to harnessing individual strengths for a future filled with limitless possibilities.

 

 

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-13284969 Tue, 25 Jul 2023 08:00:00 -0400 3465 full false Confidence in Speaking for Any Situation Confidence in Speaking for Any Situation Public speaking is the number one phobia in the world. The good news is there are specific, actionable steps you can take to decrease your anxiety about public speaking.

 In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, our guest, Terry Bean, will help us navigate through the most common challenges people face when presenting and will provide strategies to overcome them. Terry's expertise as a three-time TEDx speaker, Business Development Coach, Author, Trainer, and Consultant has empowered individuals and organizations to enhance their presentation skills and build meaningful connections with their audiences.

 Tune in to discover how you can cultivate unwavering confidence, speak with poise, and make a lasting impact in any situation. Don't miss this opportunity to unlock your true speaking potential!

]]> Public speaking is the number one phobia in the world. The good news is there are specific, actionable steps you can take to decrease your anxiety about public speaking.

 In this episode of Bring Out the Talent, our guest, Terry Bean, will help us navigate through the most common challenges people face when presenting and will provide strategies to overcome them. Terry's expertise as a three-time TEDx speaker, Business Development Coach, Author, Trainer, and Consultant has empowered individuals and organizations to enhance their presentation skills and build meaningful connections with their audiences.

 Tune in to discover how you can cultivate unwavering confidence, speak with poise, and make a lasting impact in any situation. Don't miss this opportunity to unlock your true speaking potential!

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-13201495 Tue, 11 Jul 2023 08:00:00 -0400 2350 full false Building a Customer-Centric Culture: Empowering Employees to Drive Service Excellence Building a Customer-Centric Culture: Empowering Employees to Drive Service Excellence 68% of customers leave a company because they feel the business doesn't care about them. So, as leaders, it's crucial to prioritize customer service and create a culture that values and fosters excellent customer experiences. In this episode of Bring Out The Talent, we are joined by Holly O'Donnell, founder of Slone Solutions, a leading customer service consultancy firm, to discuss ways that leaders can prioritize customer service, empower their employees, and drive long-term success. Tune in as we explore how service leadership can drive customer loyalty, increase revenue, and ultimately transform your business, highlighting the indispensable role customer service plays in today's competitive landscape.

]]> 68% of customers leave a company because they feel the business doesn't care about them. So, as leaders, it's crucial to prioritize customer service and create a culture that values and fosters excellent customer experiences. In this episode of Bring Out The Talent, we are joined by Holly O'Donnell, founder of Slone Solutions, a leading customer service consultancy firm, to discuss ways that leaders can prioritize customer service, empower their employees, and drive long-term success. Tune in as we explore how service leadership can drive customer loyalty, increase revenue, and ultimately transform your business, highlighting the indispensable role customer service plays in today's competitive landscape.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-13073393 Tue, 20 Jun 2023 08:00:00 -0400 2769 full false Unlocking the Power of Generative AI: Exploring its Potential in HR and L&D Unlocking the Power of Generative AI: Exploring its Potential in HR and L&D In this episode of "Bring Out The Talent," we to discuss the power of generative AI and its potential for HR and Learning and Development departments with our guest Gary DePaul, PhD. Gary unravels the potential and the power of generative AI, shedding light on its positive and negative implications for those in L&D and HR roles. From personalized learning experiences to ethical considerations, we delve into how this technology is reshaping the landscape. Discover how generative AI is revolutionizing training programs and the challenges it poses in terms of data privacy. 

Tune in for a captivating exploration of the dynamic effects of generative AI on learning and development!

]]> In this episode of "Bring Out The Talent," we to discuss the power of generative AI and its potential for HR and Learning and Development departments with our guest Gary DePaul, PhD. Gary unravels the potential and the power of generative AI, shedding light on its positive and negative implications for those in L&D and HR roles. From personalized learning experiences to ethical considerations, we delve into how this technology is reshaping the landscape. Discover how generative AI is revolutionizing training programs and the challenges it poses in terms of data privacy. 

Tune in for a captivating exploration of the dynamic effects of generative AI on learning and development!

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-12995552 Wed, 07 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0400 2910 full false The Power of Storytelling to Drive Positive Transformation The Power of Storytelling to Drive Positive Transformation In this episode of "Bring Out The Talent," we are joined by Maggie Redling and Coleman Williams, owners of Wrestling With Talent, to discuss how each of us can drive effective change and develop an emotional connection that will engage our workplace by using the power of storytelling. Learn how storytelling can evolve into a companywide theme that unites teams and fosters high participation and positive change. Maggie and Coleman share their journey of transforming a mundane compliance learning program into a fun experience that everyone wanted to be a part of.

 Drawing from their expertise in leadership development, HR consulting, and learning innovation, Maggie and Coleman share their experiences and creativity to guide us in creating impactful learning experiences and cultivating a stronger, more engaged workplace culture. 

 So, tune in as we uncover the power of storytelling to drive performance and engagement in the workplace.

]]> In this episode of "Bring Out The Talent," we are joined by Maggie Redling and Coleman Williams, owners of Wrestling With Talent, to discuss how each of us can drive effective change and develop an emotional connection that will engage our workplace by using the power of storytelling. Learn how storytelling can evolve into a companywide theme that unites teams and fosters high participation and positive change. Maggie and Coleman share their journey of transforming a mundane compliance learning program into a fun experience that everyone wanted to be a part of.

 Drawing from their expertise in leadership development, HR consulting, and learning innovation, Maggie and Coleman share their experiences and creativity to guide us in creating impactful learning experiences and cultivating a stronger, more engaged workplace culture. 

 So, tune in as we uncover the power of storytelling to drive performance and engagement in the workplace.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-12898135 Tue, 23 May 2023 01:00:00 -0400 3179 full false Building Psychological Safety as a Leader Building Psychological Safety as a Leader In this episode of "Bring Out The Talent," we explore the importance of psychological safety in the workplace with our guest, Kristy Busija. Kristy breaks down the four stages of psychological safety and shares how leaders can cultivate each of these stages. We also discuss how leaders can create a personal action plan to establish a psychologically safe environment for themselves and their teams, misconceptions surrounding psychological safety and its impact on mental health and wellness, and the different aspects of psychological safety when working in a hybrid workplace.

Tune in as we welcome Kristy Busija, CEO and Founder of Next Conversation Coaching, to help us prioritize psychological safety and create a workplace that empowers personal growth, innovation, and mental health.

]]> In this episode of "Bring Out The Talent," we explore the importance of psychological safety in the workplace with our guest, Kristy Busija. Kristy breaks down the four stages of psychological safety and shares how leaders can cultivate each of these stages. We also discuss how leaders can create a personal action plan to establish a psychologically safe environment for themselves and their teams, misconceptions surrounding psychological safety and its impact on mental health and wellness, and the different aspects of psychological safety when working in a hybrid workplace.

Tune in as we welcome Kristy Busija, CEO and Founder of Next Conversation Coaching, to help us prioritize psychological safety and create a workplace that empowers personal growth, innovation, and mental health.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-12813484 Tue, 09 May 2023 07:00:00 -0400 2220 full false 7 Leadership Characteristics for High-Potential Leaders 7 Leadership Characteristics for High-Potential Leaders In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we are joined by Karan Ferrell-Rhodes. Karan is an organizational psychologist, a leadership development strategist, an HR consultant, and the CEO of Shockingly Different Leadership. In today’s conversation, Karan shares her research of over 10,000 global high-potential leaders and their organizations and shares how they rose to the top of their game in their profession or industry. She also discusses the top 7 characteristics of successful leaders, whether or not those characteristics can be developed, the best way to spot these traits in emerging leaders, and so much more.

Tune in and gain a better understanding of the most effective leadership styles and even identify our own strengths and weaknesses to ultimately become better leaders or spot emerging leaders in our workplaces.

]]> In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we are joined by Karan Ferrell-Rhodes. Karan is an organizational psychologist, a leadership development strategist, an HR consultant, and the CEO of Shockingly Different Leadership. In today’s conversation, Karan shares her research of over 10,000 global high-potential leaders and their organizations and shares how they rose to the top of their game in their profession or industry. She also discusses the top 7 characteristics of successful leaders, whether or not those characteristics can be developed, the best way to spot these traits in emerging leaders, and so much more.

Tune in and gain a better understanding of the most effective leadership styles and even identify our own strengths and weaknesses to ultimately become better leaders or spot emerging leaders in our workplaces.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-12718938 Tue, 25 Apr 2023 07:00:00 -0400 2327 full false Collaboration Revolution in the Workplace Collaboration Revolution in the Workplace We are in the midst of a collaboration revolution. We are working with everyone, all the time, across silos and different platforms, but sometimes it feels as if we're stuck in a no-win cycle. We’re dealing with a sometimes-overwhelming influx of asks, with unclear lines of communication, and authority. This leaves many of us asking - how can we improve the way our teams work together?

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we are joined by one of our favorite returning guests, Bruce Tulgan. Bruce is the founder and CEO of Rainmaker Thinking and internationally recognized as a leading expert on the best practices of effective management. He earned a B.A. magna cum laude from Amherst College and a J.D. from the New York University School of Law. In this conversation, Bruce helps us improve the way we work together, motivates us to rethink collaboration in the workplace, when to say "no" or "not yet," and how to better understand the peculiar mathematics of real influence.

Tune in as Bruce shares invaluable insight and helps us improve the way our teams work together!

]]> We are in the midst of a collaboration revolution. We are working with everyone, all the time, across silos and different platforms, but sometimes it feels as if we're stuck in a no-win cycle. We’re dealing with a sometimes-overwhelming influx of asks, with unclear lines of communication, and authority. This leaves many of us asking - how can we improve the way our teams work together?

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we are joined by one of our favorite returning guests, Bruce Tulgan. Bruce is the founder and CEO of Rainmaker Thinking and internationally recognized as a leading expert on the best practices of effective management. He earned a B.A. magna cum laude from Amherst College and a J.D. from the New York University School of Law. In this conversation, Bruce helps us improve the way we work together, motivates us to rethink collaboration in the workplace, when to say "no" or "not yet," and how to better understand the peculiar mathematics of real influence.

Tune in as Bruce shares invaluable insight and helps us improve the way our teams work together!

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-12288542 Mon, 20 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0500 2192 full false Building Trust: Blueprint for Developing Trust in the Workplace Building Trust: Blueprint for Developing Trust in the Workplace A surprising Gallup survey recently revealed that 77% of employees have some degree of mistrust of their leaders. This alarming number is important to address because trust touches every area of a business. Research tells us that there is a direct correlation between high trust and high engagement and productivity. So, what can leaders do if their employees lack trust, and more importantly, how can leaders build and maintain it?

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we are joined by Dr. Darryl Stickel. Dr. Stickel helps us explore the important topic of trust in the workplace and what we can do to develop it. Dr. Stickel has devoted his career to understanding trust, what it is, how it functions, and how to increase it. He holds a PhD in Business from Duke University and wrote the book, “Building Trust: Exceptional Leadership in an Uncertain World.” After leaving Mckinsey & Company in 2001, Darryl founded Trust Unlimited and he is also a professor at the Luxembourg School of Business teaching in the MBA program and in their executive education program.

Tune in as Dr. Stickel shares invaluable insight and helps us explore his revolutionary blueprint for developing trust within leaders.

]]> A surprising Gallup survey recently revealed that 77% of employees have some degree of mistrust of their leaders. This alarming number is important to address because trust touches every area of a business. Research tells us that there is a direct correlation between high trust and high engagement and productivity. So, what can leaders do if their employees lack trust, and more importantly, how can leaders build and maintain it?

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we are joined by Dr. Darryl Stickel. Dr. Stickel helps us explore the important topic of trust in the workplace and what we can do to develop it. Dr. Stickel has devoted his career to understanding trust, what it is, how it functions, and how to increase it. He holds a PhD in Business from Duke University and wrote the book, “Building Trust: Exceptional Leadership in an Uncertain World.” After leaving Mckinsey & Company in 2001, Darryl founded Trust Unlimited and he is also a professor at the Luxembourg School of Business teaching in the MBA program and in their executive education program.

Tune in as Dr. Stickel shares invaluable insight and helps us explore his revolutionary blueprint for developing trust within leaders.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-12192680 Mon, 06 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0500 2608 full false 4-Day Work Week: Explore Better Ways of Working 4-Day Work Week: Explore Better Ways of Working The past few years have caused many business leaders to rethink the way their organizations work, where they get the work done, and how long a workweek should be. Since the 1900s, a 40-hour work week has been the accepted standard in the workplace. But has the idea of a 40-hour – five-day workweek evolved? Research seems to suggest that less is more. But what are the ramifications of a shorter work week and do the benefits outweigh them? It also leaves the question of which is better: a 4-day work week, a reduced-hour work week, or a flexible schedule.

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we dive into the benefits and potential challenges of a 4-day work week, discuss alternatives schedules, the effects a reduced hour work week can have, what to do if a reduced hour initiative flops, and so much more with our special guest, Jordan George. Jordan is an award-winning talent development leader and international speaker focused on empowering people and businesses to achieve their full potential. He is the Principal Consultant – Head of Client Solutions at Curium Solutions US, an award-winning business transformation consultancy working with global brands. 

 Tune in as Jordan shares invaluable insight and helps us better understand the possibilities of a four-day work week.

]]> The past few years have caused many business leaders to rethink the way their organizations work, where they get the work done, and how long a workweek should be. Since the 1900s, a 40-hour work week has been the accepted standard in the workplace. But has the idea of a 40-hour – five-day workweek evolved? Research seems to suggest that less is more. But what are the ramifications of a shorter work week and do the benefits outweigh them? It also leaves the question of which is better: a 4-day work week, a reduced-hour work week, or a flexible schedule.

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we dive into the benefits and potential challenges of a 4-day work week, discuss alternatives schedules, the effects a reduced hour work week can have, what to do if a reduced hour initiative flops, and so much more with our special guest, Jordan George. Jordan is an award-winning talent development leader and international speaker focused on empowering people and businesses to achieve their full potential. He is the Principal Consultant – Head of Client Solutions at Curium Solutions US, an award-winning business transformation consultancy working with global brands. 

 Tune in as Jordan shares invaluable insight and helps us better understand the possibilities of a four-day work week.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-12100097 Mon, 23 Jan 2023 09:00:00 -0500 3422 3 9 full false Expert Chat with Dr. James Stanger: Emerging Technology Trends in 2023 Expert Chat with Dr. James Stanger: Emerging Technology Trends in 2023 In this episode of “Bring Out the Talent,” we speak with Dr. James Stanger, Chief Technology Evangelist at CompTIA and recognized authority in security, information technology, workforce development, analytics, and open source. Dr. Stanger consults regularly with organizations such as the University of Cambridge, Oxford University, West Point, AstraZeneca, Target, and Dell – just to name a few. As an award-winning author, blogger, and educator, Dr Stanger’s writings for Linux Magazine, O’Reilly Media, McGraw-Hill, and Eselvier have been translated into over a dozen languages. In addition to his work as an active IT professional, he has helped design global education, certification, and badging programs in topics as diverse as security analytics, Linux administration, and web development.

Tune in as we explore the rapidly changing technology landscape and hear what Dr. Stanger predicts will be the emerging tech trends and focus for 2023. Dr. Stanger will talk about some of the major issues the IT workforce will face the workforce in 2023 including: security, data analytics, and cloud technologies. He also will discuss issues facing the IT workforce today such as skill shortage, skill development, IT worker burnout, and more.


]]> In this episode of “Bring Out the Talent,” we speak with Dr. James Stanger, Chief Technology Evangelist at CompTIA and recognized authority in security, information technology, workforce development, analytics, and open source. Dr. Stanger consults regularly with organizations such as the University of Cambridge, Oxford University, West Point, AstraZeneca, Target, and Dell – just to name a few. As an award-winning author, blogger, and educator, Dr Stanger’s writings for Linux Magazine, O’Reilly Media, McGraw-Hill, and Eselvier have been translated into over a dozen languages. In addition to his work as an active IT professional, he has helped design global education, certification, and badging programs in topics as diverse as security analytics, Linux administration, and web development.

Tune in as we explore the rapidly changing technology landscape and hear what Dr. Stanger predicts will be the emerging tech trends and focus for 2023. Dr. Stanger will talk about some of the major issues the IT workforce will face the workforce in 2023 including: security, data analytics, and cloud technologies. He also will discuss issues facing the IT workforce today such as skill shortage, skill development, IT worker burnout, and more.


]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-12007471 Mon, 09 Jan 2023 08:00:00 -0500 2960 3 8 full false Case Study: A Cultural Change That Led to Transformational Leadership Case Study: A Cultural Change That Led to Transformational Leadership There are numerous studies showing the significant impact that leaders have on the quality of a company’s culture. A leader’s talent, skill, and knowledge can improve company culture and productivity exponentially. In fact, there is a 70% difference in culture quality between companies with great leaders versus inadequate leaders.

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” our two special guests, Angie Tinch and Kisha Dixon share a powerful story on transformational leadership. They note how an organization was both brave and vulnerable enough to admit when things were broken, and that in order to move forward, it was necessary to take a step back to assess and then address the dysfunction. It was discovered that there were misalignments and unclear visions between the management team and team members – they needed to come together. Through both weekly training sessions and the utilization of several workshops – including Clifton Strengths – they were able to turn their team around and have never been stronger. They now accept being vulnerable, have open communication, share their visions, increased their sales; and still use the principles taught, years later. 

Tune in as we discuss how the changes that the Girl Scouts of Kentucky’s Wilderness Road Council adopted have made a tremendous impact on the way they operate and lead, and how other organizations can achieve similar success. 



]]> There are numerous studies showing the significant impact that leaders have on the quality of a company’s culture. A leader’s talent, skill, and knowledge can improve company culture and productivity exponentially. In fact, there is a 70% difference in culture quality between companies with great leaders versus inadequate leaders.

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” our two special guests, Angie Tinch and Kisha Dixon share a powerful story on transformational leadership. They note how an organization was both brave and vulnerable enough to admit when things were broken, and that in order to move forward, it was necessary to take a step back to assess and then address the dysfunction. It was discovered that there were misalignments and unclear visions between the management team and team members – they needed to come together. Through both weekly training sessions and the utilization of several workshops – including Clifton Strengths – they were able to turn their team around and have never been stronger. They now accept being vulnerable, have open communication, share their visions, increased their sales; and still use the principles taught, years later. 

Tune in as we discuss how the changes that the Girl Scouts of Kentucky’s Wilderness Road Council adopted have made a tremendous impact on the way they operate and lead, and how other organizations can achieve similar success. 



]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-11854231 Mon, 12 Dec 2022 01:00:00 -0500 3024 3 7 full false Defining Leadership: Who Am I To Be A Leader? Defining Leadership: Who Am I To Be A Leader? Leadership can be defined in many different ways, but author Joanne Ciulla said it best when she wrote, “Leadership is not a person or a position. It’s a complex moral relationship between people based on trust, obligation, commitment, emotion, and a shared vision of the good.” There are many leaders among us, and they’re found in various kinds of people, places, and even the most unlikely positions.

Unfortunately, many people – especially women – struggle with leadership, as only 35% currently hold a leadership position out of the 54.3% that make up today’s workforce. What’s more, is that individuals may not even realize that they have the ability to lead or influence, because they believe that to be an effective leader, they must have a title, or they view leadership as something that has to be earned. People don’t need to change who they are to be an effective leader – they simply need to have a passion for what they do and learn how to leverage who they are to make an impact. 

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we are joined by Ashley Cox. Ashley is the Founder and CEO of SproutHR and author of “Transform Your Stories: Overcome Your Toxic Stories, Become a Courageous and Confident Leader, and Impact the World.”

Tune in as we learn some tips to lead successfully and confidently in the workplace!

]]> Leadership can be defined in many different ways, but author Joanne Ciulla said it best when she wrote, “Leadership is not a person or a position. It’s a complex moral relationship between people based on trust, obligation, commitment, emotion, and a shared vision of the good.” There are many leaders among us, and they’re found in various kinds of people, places, and even the most unlikely positions.

Unfortunately, many people – especially women – struggle with leadership, as only 35% currently hold a leadership position out of the 54.3% that make up today’s workforce. What’s more, is that individuals may not even realize that they have the ability to lead or influence, because they believe that to be an effective leader, they must have a title, or they view leadership as something that has to be earned. People don’t need to change who they are to be an effective leader – they simply need to have a passion for what they do and learn how to leverage who they are to make an impact. 

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we are joined by Ashley Cox. Ashley is the Founder and CEO of SproutHR and author of “Transform Your Stories: Overcome Your Toxic Stories, Become a Courageous and Confident Leader, and Impact the World.”

Tune in as we learn some tips to lead successfully and confidently in the workplace!

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-11772088 Mon, 28 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0500 2695 3 6 full false Is Your Onboarding Program Setting Your Team Up for Success? Is Your Onboarding Program Setting Your Team Up for Success? Research by the Brandon Hall Group found that organizations with a strong onboarding process improve new hire retention by 82% and productivity by over 70%. While creating a strategic employee onboarding process continues to be a key focus for many organizations, many miss the mark when it comes to building an effective new-hire program. In fact, a report from Gallup uncovered that 88% of organizations ‍don't onboard well at all! 

What successful organizations have come to know and reinforce is that a successful onboarding program is ongoing, with an emphasis on fostering relationships and creating connectivity and much more than paperwork. In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we are joined by Zakiya Khalfani. Zakiya is a Facilitator, Trainer, and Senior TTA Consultant with over 32 years of experience. She is passionate about helping organizations create onboarding programs that help increase success and retention.

Tune in as we learn how to onboard for long-term success!

]]> Research by the Brandon Hall Group found that organizations with a strong onboarding process improve new hire retention by 82% and productivity by over 70%. While creating a strategic employee onboarding process continues to be a key focus for many organizations, many miss the mark when it comes to building an effective new-hire program. In fact, a report from Gallup uncovered that 88% of organizations ‍don't onboard well at all! 

What successful organizations have come to know and reinforce is that a successful onboarding program is ongoing, with an emphasis on fostering relationships and creating connectivity and much more than paperwork. In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we are joined by Zakiya Khalfani. Zakiya is a Facilitator, Trainer, and Senior TTA Consultant with over 32 years of experience. She is passionate about helping organizations create onboarding programs that help increase success and retention.

Tune in as we learn how to onboard for long-term success!

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-11690190 Mon, 14 Nov 2022 08:00:00 -0500 2822 3 5 full false Organizational Learning Strategies: Learning to Learn Organizational Learning Strategies: Learning to Learn Most organizations know the importance of continuous workplace learning, but are we teaching our teams how to learn? Oftentimes, corporations may miss the mark on developing a specific learning plan that identifies what is needed in order to close the skills gap. Furthermore, many employees enter the workforce without being fully prepared for the unstructured nature and complexities of the modern workplace learning environment.

Organizations need a dynamic skills-focused strategy that enables employees to learn and apply desirable skills quickly and effectively.

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we talk with our special guest, Dr. Trudy Mandeville, CEO and Chief Learning Officer of TCP Learning about what learning leaders need to make learning strategies more effective, and uncover learning myths. 

Tune in as we learn how to support and create a culture of continuous learning in the workplace!

]]> Most organizations know the importance of continuous workplace learning, but are we teaching our teams how to learn? Oftentimes, corporations may miss the mark on developing a specific learning plan that identifies what is needed in order to close the skills gap. Furthermore, many employees enter the workforce without being fully prepared for the unstructured nature and complexities of the modern workplace learning environment.

Organizations need a dynamic skills-focused strategy that enables employees to learn and apply desirable skills quickly and effectively.

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we talk with our special guest, Dr. Trudy Mandeville, CEO and Chief Learning Officer of TCP Learning about what learning leaders need to make learning strategies more effective, and uncover learning myths. 

Tune in as we learn how to support and create a culture of continuous learning in the workplace!

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-11600086 Mon, 31 Oct 2022 07:00:00 -0400 2718 3 4 full false The Great Career Pivot: From School Teacher to Corporate L&D The Great Career Pivot: From School Teacher to Corporate L&D Changing careers has become a growing movement among our current workforce. A recent poll has found that approximately 52% of American employees are considering making a career change, and 44% have already embarked on making the switch.

One area seeing tremendous change is teachers pivoting away from academia and moving toward corporate learning and development positions. In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Cyndi Threatt, Manager of Learning and Development at American Credit Acceptance. Cyndi was a 4th-grade teacher who after 7 years, pivoted into the corporate L&D space. She has since built a successful L&D department from the ground up and hired two teachers turned L&D contractors.  Cyndi discusses why teachers have the right skills and background that can help them quickly transition into corporate America.

Tune in as we explore the career journey from a teacher to a learning and development professional!

]]> Changing careers has become a growing movement among our current workforce. A recent poll has found that approximately 52% of American employees are considering making a career change, and 44% have already embarked on making the switch.

One area seeing tremendous change is teachers pivoting away from academia and moving toward corporate learning and development positions. In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Cyndi Threatt, Manager of Learning and Development at American Credit Acceptance. Cyndi was a 4th-grade teacher who after 7 years, pivoted into the corporate L&D space. She has since built a successful L&D department from the ground up and hired two teachers turned L&D contractors.  Cyndi discusses why teachers have the right skills and background that can help them quickly transition into corporate America.

Tune in as we explore the career journey from a teacher to a learning and development professional!

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-11513803 Mon, 17 Oct 2022 07:00:00 -0400 2002 3 3 full false Effective Communication Skills are a Must Effective Communication Skills are a Must A recent survey of large companies revealed that inadequate communication, both to and from employees, resulted in an average loss of $62.4 million per year.  In a separate study, it was reported that miscommunication costs smaller companies an average of $420,000 per year. Can your organization afford the cost of not focusing on developing effective communication skills?

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we dive into the importance of clear and confident communication in the workplace, why having strong communication skills matters, how to develop a framework for effective communication with employees, and the benefits that an improved communication framework can bring to an organization with our guest, Michael Broussard. Michael is a communications expert, trainer, and coach.

Tune in as we learn tips for communicating clearly, effectively, and confidently in the workplace!

]]> A recent survey of large companies revealed that inadequate communication, both to and from employees, resulted in an average loss of $62.4 million per year.  In a separate study, it was reported that miscommunication costs smaller companies an average of $420,000 per year. Can your organization afford the cost of not focusing on developing effective communication skills?

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we dive into the importance of clear and confident communication in the workplace, why having strong communication skills matters, how to develop a framework for effective communication with employees, and the benefits that an improved communication framework can bring to an organization with our guest, Michael Broussard. Michael is a communications expert, trainer, and coach.

Tune in as we learn tips for communicating clearly, effectively, and confidently in the workplace!

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-11427720 Mon, 03 Oct 2022 07:00:00 -0400 2294 3 2 full false Setting Remote Teams Up for Success Setting Remote Teams Up for Success A recent Accenture report revealed that 63% of companies that have chosen to implement a remote or hybrid workforce model witnessed high-revenue growth, whereas 69% of companies that did not embrace either of these models experienced either negative growth or no growth at all. For those organizations embracing a hybrid or remote workforce model, there has been a growing need to improve the strategies surrounding team building. So, how can managers effectively build teams and set them up for success in an ever-increasing virtual world?

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we dive into how managers can effectively lead and support their teams in a virtual environment, common obstacles leaders may encounter when working with remote teams, and how leaders can create a positive and engaging culture for employees working remotely with our guest, George Karseras. George is a Coach, Author, and the Founder of TeamUp.

Tune in as we learn how to maximize engagement and help teams thrive in a remote world!

 

]]> A recent Accenture report revealed that 63% of companies that have chosen to implement a remote or hybrid workforce model witnessed high-revenue growth, whereas 69% of companies that did not embrace either of these models experienced either negative growth or no growth at all. For those organizations embracing a hybrid or remote workforce model, there has been a growing need to improve the strategies surrounding team building. So, how can managers effectively build teams and set them up for success in an ever-increasing virtual world?

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we dive into how managers can effectively lead and support their teams in a virtual environment, common obstacles leaders may encounter when working with remote teams, and how leaders can create a positive and engaging culture for employees working remotely with our guest, George Karseras. George is a Coach, Author, and the Founder of TeamUp.

Tune in as we learn how to maximize engagement and help teams thrive in a remote world!

 

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-11343871 Mon, 19 Sep 2022 07:00:00 -0400 2444 3 1 full false Steps for Building Better Teams Steps for Building Better Teams There is no doubt that employee happiness and a thriving workplace culture are deeply connected. So, what steps can an organization take to build the foundation for strong and happy teams?

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we discuss the current state of workplace happiness, proven methods to build high-performing teams, how to help teams establish trust, and ways to explore what it means to be happy. We will also learn more about the Better Teams Assessment and ways that everyone within your team can think and behave as a leader - regardless of their level of authority, with our special guest Leigh Ann Rodgers. Leigh Ann is an IAF Certified Professional Facilitator with over 20 years of experience in the human development field and the founder and CEO of Better Teams.

Tune in as we learn how to create thriving and high-performing teams.

 

 

]]> There is no doubt that employee happiness and a thriving workplace culture are deeply connected. So, what steps can an organization take to build the foundation for strong and happy teams?

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we discuss the current state of workplace happiness, proven methods to build high-performing teams, how to help teams establish trust, and ways to explore what it means to be happy. We will also learn more about the Better Teams Assessment and ways that everyone within your team can think and behave as a leader - regardless of their level of authority, with our special guest Leigh Ann Rodgers. Leigh Ann is an IAF Certified Professional Facilitator with over 20 years of experience in the human development field and the founder and CEO of Better Teams.

Tune in as we learn how to create thriving and high-performing teams.

 

 

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-11268176 Tue, 06 Sep 2022 05:00:00 -0400 2612 2 12 full false Change Management: Discussion on Embracing Change in the Workplace Change Management: Discussion on Embracing Change in the Workplace According to The Harvard Business Review, over 60% of change initiatives undertaken in organizations end in failure. Could this be in part to leaders and employees lacking the guidance and support needed to fully embrace the change? A separate study from McKinsey revealed that 70% of all change programs fail due to employee resistance and lack of support from the management. So, what steps can an organization take to ensure a successful organizational change?

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we dive into change management within an organization, the skills and tools needed to be a successful change agent, challenges often faced when implementing changes, and tips on how to successfully manage change within an organization with our guest, Lynn Turner. Lynn is a Coach, Facilitator, Strategist, TTA consultant, and founder of Core XP Business Solutions.

Tune in as we unlock the secrets to creating lasting and impactful organizational change!

]]> According to The Harvard Business Review, over 60% of change initiatives undertaken in organizations end in failure. Could this be in part to leaders and employees lacking the guidance and support needed to fully embrace the change? A separate study from McKinsey revealed that 70% of all change programs fail due to employee resistance and lack of support from the management. So, what steps can an organization take to ensure a successful organizational change?

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we dive into change management within an organization, the skills and tools needed to be a successful change agent, challenges often faced when implementing changes, and tips on how to successfully manage change within an organization with our guest, Lynn Turner. Lynn is a Coach, Facilitator, Strategist, TTA consultant, and founder of Core XP Business Solutions.

Tune in as we unlock the secrets to creating lasting and impactful organizational change!

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-11178745 Mon, 22 Aug 2022 09:00:00 -0400 2768 2 11 full false Creating Radical Teams Creating Radical Teams Research has revealed that teamwork is more important than ever. So much so that approximately 75% of employees rate teamwork and collaboration as being very important and companies that promote collaboration and teamwork have reduced employee turnover rates by 50%. But in this new era of working, many leaders are struggling to cultivate strong teams and are looking for a roadmap for success. 

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we discuss creating radical teams with the author of “Radical Outcomes: How to Create Extraordinary Teams that Get Tangible Results,” strategist, and CEO of Oxygen, Juliana Stancampiano. Juliana dives into common workplace models that are no longer effective and how leaders can begin fostering extraordinary teams. We also discuss some of the biggest challenges leaders face when creating radical teams, the value of transparency and role clarity, how to effectively measure results, and what we can expect to see in the upcoming years surrounding teams.

Tune in as we learn some tips on how to create radical teams.


]]> Research has revealed that teamwork is more important than ever. So much so that approximately 75% of employees rate teamwork and collaboration as being very important and companies that promote collaboration and teamwork have reduced employee turnover rates by 50%. But in this new era of working, many leaders are struggling to cultivate strong teams and are looking for a roadmap for success. 

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we discuss creating radical teams with the author of “Radical Outcomes: How to Create Extraordinary Teams that Get Tangible Results,” strategist, and CEO of Oxygen, Juliana Stancampiano. Juliana dives into common workplace models that are no longer effective and how leaders can begin fostering extraordinary teams. We also discuss some of the biggest challenges leaders face when creating radical teams, the value of transparency and role clarity, how to effectively measure results, and what we can expect to see in the upcoming years surrounding teams.

Tune in as we learn some tips on how to create radical teams.


]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-11088521 Mon, 08 Aug 2022 05:00:00 -0400 2548 2 10 full false Addressing Toxic Attitudes to Create a Positive and Inclusive Workforce Addressing Toxic Attitudes to Create a Positive and Inclusive Workforce As leaders, we wear many hats: coach, mentor, motivator, problem-solver, and beyond. But one role many leaders aren’t always prepared for is the role of ‘bad attitude modifier.’ Unfortunately, an employee with a toxic attitude can seriously disrupt things in the workplace. Research shows that when faced with a toxic employee, 78% of employees become less committed to their organization.

 In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we take a deep dive into the importance of addressing a toxic attitude in the workplace and how to tackle the issue head-on. We discuss how leaders can address an employee or team who possess a toxic mindset, how to use feedback to create inclusion, and how to proactively promote a positive and inclusive workplace. To help answer these questions, we speak with Lisa Harrison. Lisa is a Diversity and Human Resources consultant with over twenty years of success in workforce diversity and inclusion.

Tune in as we learn how to combat negativity to help promote an inclusive and positive workplace.

 


]]> As leaders, we wear many hats: coach, mentor, motivator, problem-solver, and beyond. But one role many leaders aren’t always prepared for is the role of ‘bad attitude modifier.’ Unfortunately, an employee with a toxic attitude can seriously disrupt things in the workplace. Research shows that when faced with a toxic employee, 78% of employees become less committed to their organization.

 In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we take a deep dive into the importance of addressing a toxic attitude in the workplace and how to tackle the issue head-on. We discuss how leaders can address an employee or team who possess a toxic mindset, how to use feedback to create inclusion, and how to proactively promote a positive and inclusive workplace. To help answer these questions, we speak with Lisa Harrison. Lisa is a Diversity and Human Resources consultant with over twenty years of success in workforce diversity and inclusion.

Tune in as we learn how to combat negativity to help promote an inclusive and positive workplace.

 


]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-11023169 Mon, 25 Jul 2022 09:00:00 -0400 2549 2 9 full false Lead With A Culture Focused Mindset Lead With A Culture Focused Mindset A recent study revealed that companies that cultivate a positive and strong workplace culture could see as much as a 400% growth in revenue. 400%! A positive workplace culture is so important because it helps attract new talent, drives engagement, impacts happiness, and positively affects performance – do you know where your workplace culture rates?

 In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we take a deep dive into the importance of workplace culture. We explore why leaders need to think differently in order to keep culture thriving, how to align your practices with your mission and values, how to adopt behaviors associated with an “employee-centered” leadership culture, common pitfalls leaders make when trying to change corporate culture—and how to avoid them, and so much more with our special guest, John Mancuso. John is a seasoned educator, writer, founder of Authentic Communication Matters, and beloved TTA consultant.

 Tune in as we learn how you can lead with a culture-focused mindset and shape your organization’s culture and ensure stellar productivity.

]]> A recent study revealed that companies that cultivate a positive and strong workplace culture could see as much as a 400% growth in revenue. 400%! A positive workplace culture is so important because it helps attract new talent, drives engagement, impacts happiness, and positively affects performance – do you know where your workplace culture rates?

 In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we take a deep dive into the importance of workplace culture. We explore why leaders need to think differently in order to keep culture thriving, how to align your practices with your mission and values, how to adopt behaviors associated with an “employee-centered” leadership culture, common pitfalls leaders make when trying to change corporate culture—and how to avoid them, and so much more with our special guest, John Mancuso. John is a seasoned educator, writer, founder of Authentic Communication Matters, and beloved TTA consultant.

 Tune in as we learn how you can lead with a culture-focused mindset and shape your organization’s culture and ensure stellar productivity.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-10939715 Mon, 11 Jul 2022 09:00:00 -0400 2150 2 8 full false Emotional Intelligence: The Backbone of Organizational Success Emotional Intelligence: The Backbone of Organizational Success Unless you live in a cave, emotional intelligence is a critical requisite skill needed to be an effective leader or team member. Unfortunately, there is not enough emphasis placed on developing this essential skill. The good news is that emotional intelligence can be learned. 

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we take a deep dive into emotional intelligence and discuss the 4 fundamental competencies of emotional intelligence, how emotions can affect behavior and performance, the most effective EI assessments, and so much more with our special guest, Themum Crawford. Themum is an accomplished hands-on learning and development consultant with deep practical experiences in various workplace environments. She has the unique ability to expand the facilitation of topics into related principles, concepts, and theories while building an open and comfortable learning environment.

 Tune in as we learn from an EI expert how to develop a thriving emotionally intelligent workplace.

]]> Unless you live in a cave, emotional intelligence is a critical requisite skill needed to be an effective leader or team member. Unfortunately, there is not enough emphasis placed on developing this essential skill. The good news is that emotional intelligence can be learned. 

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we take a deep dive into emotional intelligence and discuss the 4 fundamental competencies of emotional intelligence, how emotions can affect behavior and performance, the most effective EI assessments, and so much more with our special guest, Themum Crawford. Themum is an accomplished hands-on learning and development consultant with deep practical experiences in various workplace environments. She has the unique ability to expand the facilitation of topics into related principles, concepts, and theories while building an open and comfortable learning environment.

 Tune in as we learn from an EI expert how to develop a thriving emotionally intelligent workplace.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-10821982 Mon, 20 Jun 2022 07:00:00 -0400 2630 2 7 full true Culture Renovation: How to Build an Unshakeable Company Culture Renovation: How to Build an Unshakeable Company Most business leaders understand the power of a dynamic and positive workplace culture, but only about 15% of companies that embark on making such a change are successful. Which leads many business leaders to ask - why do so many organizations fail when attempting a culture change? There are many factors to consider when undertaking a culture renovation. Business leaders must ask strategic questions such as what specific actions need to take place to successfully change an organization’s culture? What does our culture represent? How do we reinforce behaviors that best support our company’s purpose?

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we answer those questions and more with Kevin Oakes. Kevin is the CEO and founder of the Institute for Corporate Productivity (i4cp), the leading human capital research company in the world. Kevin was previously the founder and the president of SumTotal Systems, chairman and CEO of Click2learn, which was founded by Paul Allen, co-founder of Microsoft. Prior to joining Click2learn, Kevin was president and founder of Oakes Interactive which was purchased by Click2learn (then called Asymetrix), which Kevin helped take public a year later.

Kevin has been a pioneer in the human capital field for over 15 years and is the author of "Culture Renovation - 18 Leadership Actions To Build An Unshakeable Company" and co-author of "The Executive Guide to Integrated Talent Management," published by ATD Press. Kevin is an international keynote speaker who was also previously chairman of ATD’s board and served five years as an ATD board member.

Tune in as Kevin shares invaluable insight into the world of culture renovation and great tips from his book, "Culture Renovation - 18 Leadership Actions To Build An Unshakeable Company." 

]]> Most business leaders understand the power of a dynamic and positive workplace culture, but only about 15% of companies that embark on making such a change are successful. Which leads many business leaders to ask - why do so many organizations fail when attempting a culture change? There are many factors to consider when undertaking a culture renovation. Business leaders must ask strategic questions such as what specific actions need to take place to successfully change an organization’s culture? What does our culture represent? How do we reinforce behaviors that best support our company’s purpose?

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we answer those questions and more with Kevin Oakes. Kevin is the CEO and founder of the Institute for Corporate Productivity (i4cp), the leading human capital research company in the world. Kevin was previously the founder and the president of SumTotal Systems, chairman and CEO of Click2learn, which was founded by Paul Allen, co-founder of Microsoft. Prior to joining Click2learn, Kevin was president and founder of Oakes Interactive which was purchased by Click2learn (then called Asymetrix), which Kevin helped take public a year later.

Kevin has been a pioneer in the human capital field for over 15 years and is the author of "Culture Renovation - 18 Leadership Actions To Build An Unshakeable Company" and co-author of "The Executive Guide to Integrated Talent Management," published by ATD Press. Kevin is an international keynote speaker who was also previously chairman of ATD’s board and served five years as an ATD board member.

Tune in as Kevin shares invaluable insight into the world of culture renovation and great tips from his book, "Culture Renovation - 18 Leadership Actions To Build An Unshakeable Company." 

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-10747693 Mon, 06 Jun 2022 17:00:00 -0400 2674 2 6 full false Leading with a Coaching Mindset in the Workplace Leading with a Coaching Mindset in the Workplace According to Gallup, a staggering 85% of employees are not engaged or are actively disengaged at work, resulting in $7 trillion in lost productivity. But there is hopeful news, the Institute of Coaching revealed that over 70% of individuals who received coaching benefited from improved work performance, engagement, relationships, and more effective communication skills. They also reported that 86% of companies felt that they recouped the investment they made into coaching - plus some!

So where, as leaders, can we begin when it comes to coaching? What are the first steps that leaders can take to cultivate a coaching mindset in the workplace?

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we answer those questions and more, with Jay Caputo, a seasoned educator, trainer, certified master coach, speaker, writer, and TTA consultant.


]]> According to Gallup, a staggering 85% of employees are not engaged or are actively disengaged at work, resulting in $7 trillion in lost productivity. But there is hopeful news, the Institute of Coaching revealed that over 70% of individuals who received coaching benefited from improved work performance, engagement, relationships, and more effective communication skills. They also reported that 86% of companies felt that they recouped the investment they made into coaching - plus some!

So where, as leaders, can we begin when it comes to coaching? What are the first steps that leaders can take to cultivate a coaching mindset in the workplace?

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we answer those questions and more, with Jay Caputo, a seasoned educator, trainer, certified master coach, speaker, writer, and TTA consultant.


]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-10747605 Mon, 06 Jun 2022 17:00:00 -0400 2490 2 5 full false Navigating Talent Acquisition During the Great Resignation Navigating Talent Acquisition During the Great Resignation While the economy is attempting to recover, the number of jobs still available has been a cause of concern for most employers. In fact, the latest data from the Labor Department revealed that there are currently 11.3 million job openings. Along with the slow return to work, we are experiencing the effects of the Great Resignation. With the challenge of finding talent - what should organizations do?

To help us dive into recruiting and talent acquisition, we are joined by TTA’s Direct Hire Division’s Bryan Dick and Steve Miln. With over 20 years of combined experience in this field, tune in as this dynamic duo provides first-hand insight into the current state of Talent Acquisition.


]]> While the economy is attempting to recover, the number of jobs still available has been a cause of concern for most employers. In fact, the latest data from the Labor Department revealed that there are currently 11.3 million job openings. Along with the slow return to work, we are experiencing the effects of the Great Resignation. With the challenge of finding talent - what should organizations do?

To help us dive into recruiting and talent acquisition, we are joined by TTA’s Direct Hire Division’s Bryan Dick and Steve Miln. With over 20 years of combined experience in this field, tune in as this dynamic duo provides first-hand insight into the current state of Talent Acquisition.


]]> Buzzsprout-10747588 Mon, 06 Jun 2022 16:00:00 -0400 2713 2 4 full false Cultivating Curiosity in the Workplace Cultivating Curiosity in the Workplace Curiosity is an increasingly important skill for employees. In fact, a recent study from the Harvard Business Review revealed that curiosity allowed employees to think more innovatively and rationally about decisions and come up with new and creative solutions. Additionally, leaders who encouraged curiosity had more trusting and collaborative relationships within their teams. Who wouldn’t want that?

Unfortunately, some leaders unwittingly stifle curiosity, fearing it will increase risk and inefficiency. So how can business leaders and managers successfully cultivate a curious mindset within their teams and unleash the power of free-thinking in the workplace?

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we answer those questions and more, with Dr. Jasmine Martirossian, Vice President of Marketing at TÜV SÜD Americas.

]]> Curiosity is an increasingly important skill for employees. In fact, a recent study from the Harvard Business Review revealed that curiosity allowed employees to think more innovatively and rationally about decisions and come up with new and creative solutions. Additionally, leaders who encouraged curiosity had more trusting and collaborative relationships within their teams. Who wouldn’t want that?

Unfortunately, some leaders unwittingly stifle curiosity, fearing it will increase risk and inefficiency. So how can business leaders and managers successfully cultivate a curious mindset within their teams and unleash the power of free-thinking in the workplace?

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we answer those questions and more, with Dr. Jasmine Martirossian, Vice President of Marketing at TÜV SÜD Americas.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-10747563 Mon, 06 Jun 2022 16:00:00 -0400 1982 2 3 full false Harnessing the Power of a Multigenerational Workforce Harnessing the Power of a Multigenerational Workforce For the first time in our economic history, there are five generations of employees making up our workforce. From the ‘Traditionalists’ generation to the newcomers ‘Gen Z’ – there are decades of experiences, cultures, and knowledge in our workplaces that each of us can learn from. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics revealed that by 2026 we can expect nearly two-thirds of people aged 55-64 to be working, and about 30% of people ages 65-74 to likely have full or part-time jobs.

So how can business leaders and managers successfully lead multigenerational teams and unleash the power of a multigenerational workforce?

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we answer those questions and more, with Elana Kieffer and Carolyn Stem from The New York Academy of Medicine’s Center for Healthy Aging.

@NYAMNYC @AgefriendlyNYC #Workforce #HealthyAging

Center for Healthy Aging: https://www.nyam.org/center-healthy-aging/

]]> For the first time in our economic history, there are five generations of employees making up our workforce. From the ‘Traditionalists’ generation to the newcomers ‘Gen Z’ – there are decades of experiences, cultures, and knowledge in our workplaces that each of us can learn from. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics revealed that by 2026 we can expect nearly two-thirds of people aged 55-64 to be working, and about 30% of people ages 65-74 to likely have full or part-time jobs.

So how can business leaders and managers successfully lead multigenerational teams and unleash the power of a multigenerational workforce?

In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we answer those questions and more, with Elana Kieffer and Carolyn Stem from The New York Academy of Medicine’s Center for Healthy Aging.

@NYAMNYC @AgefriendlyNYC #Workforce #HealthyAging

Center for Healthy Aging: https://www.nyam.org/center-healthy-aging/

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-10747547 Mon, 06 Jun 2022 16:00:00 -0400 2544 2 2 full false Creating Psychological Safety in the Workplace Creating Psychological Safety in the Workplace In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Allessandria Polizzi, PhD, CEO and Founder of Verdant Consulting. Last year, more than 3.98 million workers quit their jobs each month, the highest average on record. This mass exodus of employees, or “Great Resignation” isn't necessarily indicative of people not liking what they do but according to mental health experts, many people are in search of employers who make them feel more psychologically safe.

To better understand psychological safety as it relates to the workplace and training in the workplace, we speak with Dr. Polizzi who has over 20 years of experience leading teams to help unlock their potential and helping organizations thrive. Dr. Polizzi discusses the role that psychological safety plays in training, how to address psychological safety in a hybrid workplace, the role psychological safety plays in the learning process, how psychological safety affects business outcomes, and what can leaders can do or start today to create psychological safety for their teams. 

Tune in and discover how you can begin to actively foster a psychologically safe workplace.

]]> In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Allessandria Polizzi, PhD, CEO and Founder of Verdant Consulting. Last year, more than 3.98 million workers quit their jobs each month, the highest average on record. This mass exodus of employees, or “Great Resignation” isn't necessarily indicative of people not liking what they do but according to mental health experts, many people are in search of employers who make them feel more psychologically safe.

To better understand psychological safety as it relates to the workplace and training in the workplace, we speak with Dr. Polizzi who has over 20 years of experience leading teams to help unlock their potential and helping organizations thrive. Dr. Polizzi discusses the role that psychological safety plays in training, how to address psychological safety in a hybrid workplace, the role psychological safety plays in the learning process, how psychological safety affects business outcomes, and what can leaders can do or start today to create psychological safety for their teams. 

Tune in and discover how you can begin to actively foster a psychologically safe workplace.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-10747516 Mon, 06 Jun 2022 16:00:00 -0400 1804 2 1 full false From Designer to Engineer, New Roles for Learning Professionals From Designer to Engineer, New Roles for Learning Professionals Learning engineering may not be new (it emerged in the 1960s) but new applications of AI in our industry, specifically adaptive learning, bring increased focus on that specialized skillset. How will learning analytics and adaptive solutions radically improve the speed and quality of learning?

In this episode of "Bring Out the Talent," we speak with Michael Noble, PhD, President (Americas) for Area9 Lyceum, the industry leader in adaptive learning. We discuss the emergence (or re-emergence) of a unique role for learning engineers, how that role differs from that of instructional designer or LX designer, and why it's not just another trend. Innovations in technology are creating a demand for increased competencies in data analysis and data-driven design. And with a much more ambitious aim--to accelerate expert performance and mastery in our organizations. 

Tune in and discover the next big shift in the future of learning.

]]> Learning engineering may not be new (it emerged in the 1960s) but new applications of AI in our industry, specifically adaptive learning, bring increased focus on that specialized skillset. How will learning analytics and adaptive solutions radically improve the speed and quality of learning?

In this episode of "Bring Out the Talent," we speak with Michael Noble, PhD, President (Americas) for Area9 Lyceum, the industry leader in adaptive learning. We discuss the emergence (or re-emergence) of a unique role for learning engineers, how that role differs from that of instructional designer or LX designer, and why it's not just another trend. Innovations in technology are creating a demand for increased competencies in data analysis and data-driven design. And with a much more ambitious aim--to accelerate expert performance and mastery in our organizations. 

Tune in and discover the next big shift in the future of learning.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-10034609 Mon, 14 Mar 2022 04:00:00 -0400 1917 TTA, The Training Associates,Maria Melfa,Jocelyn Allen,Dr. Michael Noble,Area9 Lyceum,learning engineering,LX design 1 20 full false Session Producers: Supporting Your Virtual Learning Experiences Session Producers: Supporting Your Virtual Learning Experiences In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Pearl Walker, the Senior Learning Operations and Delivery Manager at SAE International. With millions of employees now working remotely, most businesses are placing a heavier reliance on video conferencing tools, such as Zoom, Teams, WebEx, and others. With the increase of virtual meetings and training sessions, many organizations have found the need for a technical Session Producers to help support their virtual training deliveries. 

As the leader in connecting and educating engineers, SAE International utilizes Session Producers to help ensure that their trainings run seamlessly so that their virtual hosts have the support they need in order to focus on training. 

Tune in as we discuss the importance of Session Producers and how they are a vital role in SAE’s virtual deliveries. 

]]> In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Pearl Walker, the Senior Learning Operations and Delivery Manager at SAE International. With millions of employees now working remotely, most businesses are placing a heavier reliance on video conferencing tools, such as Zoom, Teams, WebEx, and others. With the increase of virtual meetings and training sessions, many organizations have found the need for a technical Session Producers to help support their virtual training deliveries. 

As the leader in connecting and educating engineers, SAE International utilizes Session Producers to help ensure that their trainings run seamlessly so that their virtual hosts have the support they need in order to focus on training. 

Tune in as we discuss the importance of Session Producers and how they are a vital role in SAE’s virtual deliveries. 

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-10034192 Mon, 28 Feb 2022 04:00:00 -0500 1755 TTA,The Training Associates,Maria Melfa,Jocelyn Allen,Pearl Walker,SAE International,Session Producers 1 19 full false Using Digital Neuroscience To Address Mental Health In The Workplace Using Digital Neuroscience To Address Mental Health In The Workplace In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Matt Resteghini, Chief Marketing Officer of Total Brain. It is no secret that there is a Mental Health Crisis impacting our world. Studies have found that 19% of people have a mental health condition and 51% are at risk for a mental health condition. So how can business leaders better understand employee stress levels, risks of mental conditions, and their impact on brain capacities? And more importantly, what can we do about it? 

Matt discusses their powerful work surrounding neuroscience-based mental health and brain performance. With digital neuroscience, mental health can be measured, improved, and managed - just like physical health. Matt will also discuss their recent work developing the Mental Health Index: U.S. Worker Edition, the impact of COVID on mental health risks and brain capacities, some of the biggest challenges of the broader mental health crisis, and how to help remove the stigma around mental health. Tune in and learn how you can proactively support some of the challenges around the mental health crisis for your employees.

 

]]> In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Matt Resteghini, Chief Marketing Officer of Total Brain. It is no secret that there is a Mental Health Crisis impacting our world. Studies have found that 19% of people have a mental health condition and 51% are at risk for a mental health condition. So how can business leaders better understand employee stress levels, risks of mental conditions, and their impact on brain capacities? And more importantly, what can we do about it? 

Matt discusses their powerful work surrounding neuroscience-based mental health and brain performance. With digital neuroscience, mental health can be measured, improved, and managed - just like physical health. Matt will also discuss their recent work developing the Mental Health Index: U.S. Worker Edition, the impact of COVID on mental health risks and brain capacities, some of the biggest challenges of the broader mental health crisis, and how to help remove the stigma around mental health. Tune in and learn how you can proactively support some of the challenges around the mental health crisis for your employees.

 

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-10034160 Mon, 14 Feb 2022 04:00:00 -0500 1875 TTA,The Training Associates,Maria Melfa,Jocelyn Allen,Matt Resteghini,Total Brain,digital neuroscience,mental health, mental health index,muddhouse media 1 18 full false Work Without Limits: Inclusion that Encompasses People with Disabilities Work Without Limits: Inclusion that Encompasses People with Disabilities In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Bonnie Rivers, Director of Employer Relations for Work Without Limits at UMass Chan Medical School’s Commonwealth Medicine. With one in four adults in the US living with a disability, what can business leaders do to support their success? 

With so many organizations increasing their focus on inclusion and diversity, many are looking to find ways to better support employees with disabilities. Bonnie and the team at Work Without Limits provide training and consulting services to help build the capacity of employers, employment service providers, state agency personnel, and educational institutions in advancing workplace disability inclusion. Bonnie will discuss how their programs work, training programs they offer, how to address neurodiversity in the workplace, and much more. Tune in and learn how you can support a more diverse workplace that thrives without limits.  

About Work Without Limits: Work Without Limits is an initiative of Commonwealth Medicine, the consulting and operations division of UMass Chan Medical School. Their goal is to position Massachusetts as the first state in the nation where the employment rate of people with disabilities is equal to people without disabilities.

]]> In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Bonnie Rivers, Director of Employer Relations for Work Without Limits at UMass Chan Medical School’s Commonwealth Medicine. With one in four adults in the US living with a disability, what can business leaders do to support their success? 

With so many organizations increasing their focus on inclusion and diversity, many are looking to find ways to better support employees with disabilities. Bonnie and the team at Work Without Limits provide training and consulting services to help build the capacity of employers, employment service providers, state agency personnel, and educational institutions in advancing workplace disability inclusion. Bonnie will discuss how their programs work, training programs they offer, how to address neurodiversity in the workplace, and much more. Tune in and learn how you can support a more diverse workplace that thrives without limits.  

About Work Without Limits: Work Without Limits is an initiative of Commonwealth Medicine, the consulting and operations division of UMass Chan Medical School. Their goal is to position Massachusetts as the first state in the nation where the employment rate of people with disabilities is equal to people without disabilities.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-9968596 Mon, 31 Jan 2022 10:00:00 -0500 2773 Bring Out The Talent,TTA,Maria Melfa,Jocelyn Allen,Bonnie Rivers,Work Without Limits,People With Disabilities,UMass Chan Medical School 1 17 full false Engaging and Cultivating Company Culture in this Hybrid World Engaging and Cultivating Company Culture in this Hybrid World In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Erin Diehl on ways to engage and cultivate company culture in this new hybrid world. Erin is the energetic founder of “Improve it!” a unique professional development company that pushes others to laugh, learn, play, and grow. Erin has spoken on stages nationwide for associations including SHRM, HRMAC, and ATD. She has also worked with many amazing organizations such as United Airlines, PepsiCo, Uber, Groupon, Deloitte, Walgreens, and Warby Parker – just to name a few. Erin shares ideas on how leaders can improve engagement for remote, in-office, and hybrid employees. 

Tune in and learn from an expert how we can all shift our mindsets to focus on the quality of how we connect, ways to maximize engagement, and the tools to cultivate a thriving company culture.

]]> In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Erin Diehl on ways to engage and cultivate company culture in this new hybrid world. Erin is the energetic founder of “Improve it!” a unique professional development company that pushes others to laugh, learn, play, and grow. Erin has spoken on stages nationwide for associations including SHRM, HRMAC, and ATD. She has also worked with many amazing organizations such as United Airlines, PepsiCo, Uber, Groupon, Deloitte, Walgreens, and Warby Parker – just to name a few. Erin shares ideas on how leaders can improve engagement for remote, in-office, and hybrid employees. 

Tune in and learn from an expert how we can all shift our mindsets to focus on the quality of how we connect, ways to maximize engagement, and the tools to cultivate a thriving company culture.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-9866730 Mon, 17 Jan 2022 04:00:00 -0500 2326 TTA,The Training Associates,Maria Melfa,Jocelyn Allen,Erin Diehl,SHRM,HRMAC,ATD. 1 16 full false Extended Reality (XR): The Future of Workplace Learning Extended Reality (XR): The Future of Workplace Learning In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Brian Boyle about extended reality (XR). Brian is a training designer, technologist, and founder of the award-winning CrossTrainer. With the global XR market expected to rise over 300 billion dollars by 2024 and more cost-effective solutions available, organizations are looking at XR to help increase learning engagement. Brian will discuss several XR solutions, share some interesting use cases, and give listeners tips to help determine which avenue is best for your organization. 

As the world accelerates its path of digital transformation, tune it and learn from an XR expert the key to the future of work and what is next for mixed reality.

]]> In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Brian Boyle about extended reality (XR). Brian is a training designer, technologist, and founder of the award-winning CrossTrainer. With the global XR market expected to rise over 300 billion dollars by 2024 and more cost-effective solutions available, organizations are looking at XR to help increase learning engagement. Brian will discuss several XR solutions, share some interesting use cases, and give listeners tips to help determine which avenue is best for your organization. 

As the world accelerates its path of digital transformation, tune it and learn from an XR expert the key to the future of work and what is next for mixed reality.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-9760353 Mon, 03 Jan 2022 04:00:00 -0500 1815 Maria Melfa,Jocelyn Allen,Brian Boyle,XR,Extended Reality,VR,Virtual Reality,TTA,The Training Associates,CrossTrainer 1 15 full false Assess For Success: Never Hire A Bad Salesperson Again Assess For Success: Never Hire A Bad Salesperson Again In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Dr. Christopher Croner, Principal, Lead Sales Psychologist, and Sales Assessment Developer at SalesDrive. With sales positions having such a high turnover rate, many organizations are looking for the secret to hiring and keeping exceptional salespeople. 

In this episode, Dr. Croner uncovers that secret formula for success, and here’s a hint – it all begins with the assessment. Dr. Croner gives listeners a deep dive into the three elements of drive, how to test a sales candidate's drive, and interview questions that you can use to assess the three critical elements of drive. 

With the average sales turnover at 35%, tune in and learn from an expert how you can never hire a bad salesperson again!

]]> In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Dr. Christopher Croner, Principal, Lead Sales Psychologist, and Sales Assessment Developer at SalesDrive. With sales positions having such a high turnover rate, many organizations are looking for the secret to hiring and keeping exceptional salespeople. 

In this episode, Dr. Croner uncovers that secret formula for success, and here’s a hint – it all begins with the assessment. Dr. Croner gives listeners a deep dive into the three elements of drive, how to test a sales candidate's drive, and interview questions that you can use to assess the three critical elements of drive. 

With the average sales turnover at 35%, tune in and learn from an expert how you can never hire a bad salesperson again!

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-9646504 Mon, 06 Dec 2021 04:00:00 -0500 2207 TTA,Maria Melfa,Jocelyn Allen,SalesDrive,Christopher Croner,Sales Assessments 1 14 full false Cybersecurity Training: Why It Has Never Been So Important Cybersecurity Training: Why It Has Never Been So Important In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Jon O’Keefe the Technology Education Jedi at Logical Operations. Jon discusses the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). Developed by the U.S. Department of Defense, the CMMC is a cybersecurity program designed to protect information that is shared by the Department with its contractors. 

With over 350,000 contractors within the DoD vendor supply chain needing the CMMC, there is an increasing demand for the training. Jon gives listeners a deep dive into the training program and who would benefit from this certification. He will discuss how there are heightened risks for companies as more employees are working from home. 

With a compliance requirement date looming, tune in and learn from an expert how you can begin preparing now.

]]> In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Jon O’Keefe the Technology Education Jedi at Logical Operations. Jon discusses the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). Developed by the U.S. Department of Defense, the CMMC is a cybersecurity program designed to protect information that is shared by the Department with its contractors. 

With over 350,000 contractors within the DoD vendor supply chain needing the CMMC, there is an increasing demand for the training. Jon gives listeners a deep dive into the training program and who would benefit from this certification. He will discuss how there are heightened risks for companies as more employees are working from home. 

With a compliance requirement date looming, tune in and learn from an expert how you can begin preparing now.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-9578171 Mon, 22 Nov 2021 04:00:00 -0500 2407 Cybersecurity,Jon O'Keefe,Logical Operations,CMMC,TTA, The Training Associates,Maria Melfa,Jocelyn Allen,U.S. Department of Defense 1 13 full false There's Something About Kris Meyer There's Something About Kris Meyer In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we shake it up a bit and speak with Kris Myer an Emmy nominated and award-winning producer and co-founder and CEO of Muddhouse Media. 

In this off-the-cuff episode, Kris discusses his 20+ year career working in the entertainment industry. From his work with the comedic duo The Farrelly Brothers on blockbuster hits such as “There’s Something About Mary,” “Me, Myself & Irene,” “Shallow Hal,” “Fever Pitch,” and “Dumb & Dumber To.” To his independent ventures on a number of films and tv shows ranging from the Sports Emmy nominated ESPN show “THE LOST SON OF HAVANA” to “PLIMPTON!” Kris also discusses his most recent venture in podcasting with his new production company “Muddhouse Media.” 

Tune in for a fun look behind the scenes of some of the best tv shows, movies, and podcasts of our time!

]]> In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we shake it up a bit and speak with Kris Myer an Emmy nominated and award-winning producer and co-founder and CEO of Muddhouse Media. 

In this off-the-cuff episode, Kris discusses his 20+ year career working in the entertainment industry. From his work with the comedic duo The Farrelly Brothers on blockbuster hits such as “There’s Something About Mary,” “Me, Myself & Irene,” “Shallow Hal,” “Fever Pitch,” and “Dumb & Dumber To.” To his independent ventures on a number of films and tv shows ranging from the Sports Emmy nominated ESPN show “THE LOST SON OF HAVANA” to “PLIMPTON!” Kris also discusses his most recent venture in podcasting with his new production company “Muddhouse Media.” 

Tune in for a fun look behind the scenes of some of the best tv shows, movies, and podcasts of our time!

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-9490971 Mon, 08 Nov 2021 04:00:00 -0500 2579 Kris Meyer,Muddhouse Media,Farrelly Brothers, Lost Son of Havana,There's Something About Mary,Super Troopers 2, Dumb and Dumber To, TTA, The Training Associates, Maria Melfa 1 12 full false Identify Your Natural Talents: Tips From A CliftonStrengths Finders Coach Identify Your Natural Talents: Tips From A CliftonStrengths Finders Coach In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Pari Smart, a Certified Gallup StrengthsFinder Coach. 

Pari takes us for a deep dive into the strengths-based philosophy utilizing Gallup’s CliftonStrengths assessments. Over 26 million people have utilized CliftonStrengths assessments to help define their unique talent DNA. In fact, these assessments are so beneficial that thousands of companies have incorporated them into their employee development programs in order to help maximize their team's potential at work. As a certified StrengthsFinder coach, Pari discusses ways that leaders can use and understand their own strengths, as well as, their employees' strengths, to help develop and reinforce the positive attributes of their teams. 

Tune in and discover the significant impact that CliftonStrengths assessments can have in the workplace and how managing to employees’ strengths can lead to improved workforce engagement and increased employee retention.

]]> In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Pari Smart, a Certified Gallup StrengthsFinder Coach. 

Pari takes us for a deep dive into the strengths-based philosophy utilizing Gallup’s CliftonStrengths assessments. Over 26 million people have utilized CliftonStrengths assessments to help define their unique talent DNA. In fact, these assessments are so beneficial that thousands of companies have incorporated them into their employee development programs in order to help maximize their team's potential at work. As a certified StrengthsFinder coach, Pari discusses ways that leaders can use and understand their own strengths, as well as, their employees' strengths, to help develop and reinforce the positive attributes of their teams. 

Tune in and discover the significant impact that CliftonStrengths assessments can have in the workplace and how managing to employees’ strengths can lead to improved workforce engagement and increased employee retention.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-9403634 Mon, 25 Oct 2021 04:00:00 -0400 3052 Maria Melfa,Jocelyn Allen,Pari Smart,TTA, The Training Associates 1 11 full false Developing Diverse Technical Talent: The Akamai Story Developing Diverse Technical Talent: The Akamai Story In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Magda Bukala, the Diversity Inclusion and Social Responsibility Manager II, and ATA Global Project Manager at Akamai Technologies. 

Magda takes a deep dive into the origins of the Akamai Technical Academy (ATA), a training program for diverse talent, specifically people with the aptitude for technology who might not come from typical technical backgrounds. Magda discusses the candidate process and experience, the profound impact ATA had on Akamai and its employees, and how the program went on to win a 2020 Brandon Hall Group Award for Excellence in Learning. 

Tune in and discover how your organization can develop strong talent from non-traditional backgrounds and diversify your workforce.

]]> In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Magda Bukala, the Diversity Inclusion and Social Responsibility Manager II, and ATA Global Project Manager at Akamai Technologies. 

Magda takes a deep dive into the origins of the Akamai Technical Academy (ATA), a training program for diverse talent, specifically people with the aptitude for technology who might not come from typical technical backgrounds. Magda discusses the candidate process and experience, the profound impact ATA had on Akamai and its employees, and how the program went on to win a 2020 Brandon Hall Group Award for Excellence in Learning. 

Tune in and discover how your organization can develop strong talent from non-traditional backgrounds and diversify your workforce.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-9327297 Mon, 11 Oct 2021 04:00:00 -0400 2140 Maria Melfa, Jocelyn Allen, Magda Bukala, TTA 1 10 full false Learning Strategy: Mapping Out Success Learning Strategy: Mapping Out Success In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Jerry Gschwind, President of Symphony Learning Partners, Learning Strategy Expert, and Senior TTA Learning Consultant. Jerry shares stories from his thirty years as a Learning Strategist and shares some remarkable stories from some of his notable award-winning projects. Jerry also takes a deeper dive into Learning Strategy, when to use a Learning Strategist, the core benefits of developing a Learning Strategy, and how to determine if a Learning Strategist is right for you. 

Tune in and discover from an expert how a Learning Strategy can positively impact your organization’s learning initiatives.

]]> In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Jerry Gschwind, President of Symphony Learning Partners, Learning Strategy Expert, and Senior TTA Learning Consultant. Jerry shares stories from his thirty years as a Learning Strategist and shares some remarkable stories from some of his notable award-winning projects. Jerry also takes a deeper dive into Learning Strategy, when to use a Learning Strategist, the core benefits of developing a Learning Strategy, and how to determine if a Learning Strategist is right for you. 

Tune in and discover from an expert how a Learning Strategy can positively impact your organization’s learning initiatives.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-9266881 Mon, 27 Sep 2021 10:00:00 -0400 3145 Maria Melfa, Jocelyn Allen, Jerry Gschwind, TTA 1 9 full false Diversity in the Workplace: An Empathetic Approach to Fostering Inclusion Diversity in the Workplace: An Empathetic Approach to Fostering Inclusion In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Kisha Dixon an award-winning Culture Change Agent and Senior TTA Learning Consultant. 

In this powerful conversation, Kisha discusses diversity and how it has evolved over the years. Kisha also shares effective ways leaders can use empathy to address unconscious and implicit bias in the workplace, what a successful diversity program looks like, how organizations can ensure long-lasting program effectiveness, the advantages of remote diversity programs, and ways to advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion with colleagues who maybe don’t understand its importance. 

Tune in for a deeper dive into diversity awareness and discover how you can become a powerful force for positive change in your workplace.

 

]]> In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Kisha Dixon an award-winning Culture Change Agent and Senior TTA Learning Consultant. 

In this powerful conversation, Kisha discusses diversity and how it has evolved over the years. Kisha also shares effective ways leaders can use empathy to address unconscious and implicit bias in the workplace, what a successful diversity program looks like, how organizations can ensure long-lasting program effectiveness, the advantages of remote diversity programs, and ways to advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion with colleagues who maybe don’t understand its importance. 

Tune in for a deeper dive into diversity awareness and discover how you can become a powerful force for positive change in your workplace.

 

]]> Special Guest, Kisha Dixon Buzzsprout-9185290 Mon, 13 Sep 2021 07:00:00 -0400 2874 diversity, the training associates, kisha dixon, maria melfa, jocelyn allen, equity, inclusion, DEI, positivity, change, equal opportunity 1 8 full false Adaptive Learning: A Personalized Learning Approach Adaptive Learning: A Personalized Learning Approach In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Joe Barrow, Senior Vice President of Business Development at Area9 Lyceum. 

Joe, with his 25+ years of L&D experience, discusses the importance of personalized and adaptive learning. Joe shares the benefits of adaptive learning and why many organizations are adopting it. He also discusses key issues organizations should consider before adopting an adaptive learning platform, best practices to consider before a deployment, and how to measure success. 

Tune into this episode to discover how you can provide four-dimensional learning for the 21st century.

]]> In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Joe Barrow, Senior Vice President of Business Development at Area9 Lyceum. 

Joe, with his 25+ years of L&D experience, discusses the importance of personalized and adaptive learning. Joe shares the benefits of adaptive learning and why many organizations are adopting it. He also discusses key issues organizations should consider before adopting an adaptive learning platform, best practices to consider before a deployment, and how to measure success. 

Tune into this episode to discover how you can provide four-dimensional learning for the 21st century.

]]> Maria Melfa, Jocelyn Allen, Joe Barrow Buzzsprout-9109103 Mon, 30 Aug 2021 09:00:00 -0400 2689 Maria Melfa, Jocelyn Allen, Joe Barrow, Bring Out the Talent, Adaptive Learning, The Training Associates, Muddhouse Media 1 7 full false Get Comfortable With Change Get Comfortable With Change In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Anne Bonney, an international keynote speaker, trainer, best-selling author of “GET OVER IT!”, podcast host of “Ignite Your Influence,” and an experienced leadership workshop facilitator. 

Anne will discuss the important (yet sometimes daunting) aspect of how to manage change. Anne shares ways to get buy-in from the top down, how to handle resistance to change, how to make lasting change, and how to address change management in an unstable time. Anne’s vibrant and energetic personality will captivate you as she fires up listeners and inspires you to communicate better, charge up your EQ, and embrace the challenges that transition brings.

]]> In this episode of “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with Anne Bonney, an international keynote speaker, trainer, best-selling author of “GET OVER IT!”, podcast host of “Ignite Your Influence,” and an experienced leadership workshop facilitator. 

Anne will discuss the important (yet sometimes daunting) aspect of how to manage change. Anne shares ways to get buy-in from the top down, how to handle resistance to change, how to make lasting change, and how to address change management in an unstable time. Anne’s vibrant and energetic personality will captivate you as she fires up listeners and inspires you to communicate better, charge up your EQ, and embrace the challenges that transition brings.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen, Anne Bonney Buzzsprout-9036343 Mon, 16 Aug 2021 09:00:00 -0400 2956 Anne Bonney, Maria Melfa, Jocelyn Allen, Bring Out the Talent, The Training Associates, Muddhouse Media 1 6 full false The Power of Laughter in the Workplace The Power of Laughter in the Workplace In this episode of, “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with David Horning, speaker, comedian, and founder of the hilarious “Water Cooler Comedy.” 

David will discuss how humor can be used as a powerful tool to inspire happiness, ignite creativity, boost productivity, and promote a collaborative workplace culture. He will also chat about ways that leaders can effectively use humor in the workplace, four types of humor that leaders will find effective in managing workplace culture, and what types of humor to avoid. 

Tune into this episode to discover how you can capitalize on the power of humor in your workplace!

]]> In this episode of, “Bring Out The Talent,” we speak with David Horning, speaker, comedian, and founder of the hilarious “Water Cooler Comedy.” 

David will discuss how humor can be used as a powerful tool to inspire happiness, ignite creativity, boost productivity, and promote a collaborative workplace culture. He will also chat about ways that leaders can effectively use humor in the workplace, four types of humor that leaders will find effective in managing workplace culture, and what types of humor to avoid. 

Tune into this episode to discover how you can capitalize on the power of humor in your workplace!

]]> Maria Melfa, Jocelyn Allen, David Horning Buzzsprout-8960308 Mon, 02 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0400 2553 Maria Melfa, Jocelyn Allen, David Horning, Bring Out the Talent, The Training Associates, Muddhouse Media, Laughter in the Workplace 1 5 full false Resiliency and A Winning Mindset with gold medal Olympic weightlifter, Laura Eiman Resiliency and A Winning Mindset with gold medal Olympic weightlifter, Laura Eiman In this episode of, “Bring Out The Talent”, we will be talking with Laura Eiman, a 67-year-old gold medal Olympic weightlifter, a Navy SEAL certified mental toughness coach, and a Resiliency Expert. 

Laura will share her inspirational story on how she went from a life of dysfunction to becoming an Olympic gold medal winner in her 60’s by developing a mentally tough and resilient mindset. Laura discusses how anyone can achieve their goals by developing habits, deleting toxic emotions, and learning how to approach each day with a “solution-based” mindset. Laura is an ordinary woman now doing extraordinary things because she got mentally tough.



]]> In this episode of, “Bring Out The Talent”, we will be talking with Laura Eiman, a 67-year-old gold medal Olympic weightlifter, a Navy SEAL certified mental toughness coach, and a Resiliency Expert. 

Laura will share her inspirational story on how she went from a life of dysfunction to becoming an Olympic gold medal winner in her 60’s by developing a mentally tough and resilient mindset. Laura discusses how anyone can achieve their goals by developing habits, deleting toxic emotions, and learning how to approach each day with a “solution-based” mindset. Laura is an ordinary woman now doing extraordinary things because she got mentally tough.



]]> Maria Melfa, Jocelyn Allen, Laura Eiman Buzzsprout-8883995 Mon, 19 Jul 2021 05:00:00 -0400 2869 Bring Out the Talent, Olympics, Resiliency and A Winning Mindset, Maria Melfa, Jocelyn Allen, Laura Eiman, The Training Associates, Muddhouse Media 1 4 full false Storypathing: The Importance of Crafting Your Narrative Storypathing: The Importance of Crafting Your Narrative In this episode of, “Bring Out The Talent”, we will be talking with Dr. Dennis Rebelo, a professor, speaker, career coach, former President of Alex and Ani University, and author of “Story Like You Mean It”. 

Dr. Rebelo will share the meaning of storypathing, the importance of crafting your narrative, how storypathing can strengthen an organization, how employees can create and develop their stories to overcome obstacles and showcase their authentic selves, how to measure storypathing success, and so much more.

]]> In this episode of, “Bring Out The Talent”, we will be talking with Dr. Dennis Rebelo, a professor, speaker, career coach, former President of Alex and Ani University, and author of “Story Like You Mean It”. 

Dr. Rebelo will share the meaning of storypathing, the importance of crafting your narrative, how storypathing can strengthen an organization, how employees can create and develop their stories to overcome obstacles and showcase their authentic selves, how to measure storypathing success, and so much more.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen, Dr. Dennis Rebelo Buzzsprout-8811954 Mon, 05 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0400 2621 Bring out the Talent Episode #3- Storypathing: The Importance of Crafting Your Narrative 1 3 full false Leadership: Leading With Structure and Substance Leadership: Leading With Structure and Substance Leadership: Leading With Structure and Substance

In this episode of, “Bring Out The Talent.” we will be talking to Bruce Tulgan, founder and CEO of Rainmaker Thinking and Leadership Expert. Bruce will share his insights on the biggest challenges leaders face today, the under-management epidemic, tips for creating highly engaged leaders, what leadership methodologies have stood the test of time and which have evolved, and so much more.

]]> Leadership: Leading With Structure and Substance

In this episode of, “Bring Out The Talent.” we will be talking to Bruce Tulgan, founder and CEO of Rainmaker Thinking and Leadership Expert. Bruce will share his insights on the biggest challenges leaders face today, the under-management epidemic, tips for creating highly engaged leaders, what leadership methodologies have stood the test of time and which have evolved, and so much more.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen, Bruce Tulgan Buzzsprout-8737041 Mon, 21 Jun 2021 07:00:00 -0400 3008 Bring out the Talent, The Training Associates, Maria Melfa, Jocelyn Allen, Bruce Tulgan, Muddhouse Media 1 2 full false Origins of TTA: How It All Began Origins of TTA: How It All Began In this opening episode of, “Bring Out The Talent.” we kick off our series with Maria Melfa, President and CEO of TTA. Maria begins our series by sharing the origins of TTA, what it’s like working with family, how the learning and development industry has changed over nearly three decades, the importance of company culture, funny stories from along the way, and so much more.

]]> In this opening episode of, “Bring Out The Talent.” we kick off our series with Maria Melfa, President and CEO of TTA. Maria begins our series by sharing the origins of TTA, what it’s like working with family, how the learning and development industry has changed over nearly three decades, the importance of company culture, funny stories from along the way, and so much more.

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-8657053 Mon, 07 Jun 2021 04:00:00 -0400 3055 Bring Out The Talent, TTA, Maria Melfa, Jocelyn Allen, Muddhouse Media, learning and development industry 1 1 full false Bring Out the Talent - The Training Associates Podcast - Teaser Bring Out the Talent - The Training Associates Podcast - Teaser Tune into The Training Associates (TTA) “Bring Out the Talent” podcast to hear from learning and development talent and partners on their innovative approaches and industry insights. 

In each episode, TTA’s CEO, Maria Melfa, and Talent Manager, Jocelyn Allen will chat with subject matter experts and bring you casual, yet insightful conversations. Maria and Jocelyn use their unique blend of industry experience and humor to interview the L&D industry’s most influential people, latest topics, and powerful stories. Each episode has important takeaways that will help to create a culture of continuous learning within your organization. 

Tune in as we Bring Out The Talent!

]]> Tune into The Training Associates (TTA) “Bring Out the Talent” podcast to hear from learning and development talent and partners on their innovative approaches and industry insights. 

In each episode, TTA’s CEO, Maria Melfa, and Talent Manager, Jocelyn Allen will chat with subject matter experts and bring you casual, yet insightful conversations. Maria and Jocelyn use their unique blend of industry experience and humor to interview the L&D industry’s most influential people, latest topics, and powerful stories. Each episode has important takeaways that will help to create a culture of continuous learning within your organization. 

Tune in as we Bring Out The Talent!

]]> Maria Melfa & Jocelyn Allen Buzzsprout-8577412 Mon, 24 May 2021 09:00:00 -0400 26 Bring Out the Talent, The Training Associates, TTA, Maria Melfa, Jocelyn Allen, Muddhouse Media full false