Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast

Episoder

• Your Best Hire Already Left You: How to Build Employee Loyalty and a Culture People Want to Return To 10.06.2026 47min

  What if the best hire you could make is someone who has already left you?In this episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole Greer sits down with Lee Caraher, CEO of Double Forte and author of "The Boomerang Principle," to explore why rehiring former employees is one of the most undervalued strategies in business today.This conversation dives into key topics like employee loyalty, work culture, organizational culture, leadership and business strategy, team communication, and what it really means to build a place people want to come back to.In this episode, you'll learn:Why loyalty is no longer defined by tenure (and what it really means today)How the "boomerang" approach to rehiring reduces onboarding time and boosts retentionWhat the Oprah Effect has to do with how employees think about their careersWhy the worst behavior you allow is the culture you createHow to build core values that go beyond posters on the wallPractical strategies for leading younger generations without losing your best peopleThis episode is for leaders, managers, business owners, and professionals who want to improve communication, strengthen organizational culture, and build teams that stay, grow, and come back.About Lee CaraherLee Caraher is the CEO of Double Forte, a national communications agency, and the author of two books: "Millennials and Management" and "The Boomerang Principle." She is a communication strategist known for her practical, straight-talking approach to leadership, culture, and team performance. Find Lee at: https://double-forte.com and https://leecaraher.comThe Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast helps leaders improve work culture, communication, and business performance through real-world leadership strategies and practical insights. Click here to view the episode transcript. Learn more about training, coaching, and courses at https://vibrantculture.comConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/build-a-vibrant-culture-nicole-greer/For speaking inquiries: https://vibrantculture.com/speaker-kit-request/Download our training catalog: https://vibrantculture.com/catalog-request/Want to be a guest? Send your request to podcast@vibrantculture.com
• What Great Leaders Do Differently: Core Values, Work Culture & Servant Leadership with Rabbi Mike Moskowitz 03.06.2026 52min

  What if the most powerful work culture lessons didn't come from a Fortune 500 boardroom but from a rabbi who's built a thriving community of 900 families over 30 years?In this episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole Greer sits down with Rabbi Mike Moskowitz of Temple Shir Shalom in Detroit to explore how timeless principles of servant leadership, core values, and intentional community-building translate directly into stronger organizations, no matter your industry.This conversation dives into key topics such as work culture, organizational culture, leadership and business strategy, team communication, and building meaningful rituals that foster belonging and drive performance.In this episode, you'll learn:How to develop core values that people actually live (not just hang on a wall)Why servant leadership is the model that makes teams and cultures thriveHow Rabbi Mike used EOS/Traction to build a strategic vision for a faith communityWhat "saving a seat" really means and why inclusion is a business strategyHow great leaders navigate conflict, crisis, and change without losing hopeThe power of learning for learning's sake and why your best leaders never stop growingThis episode is for leaders, managers, business owners, and professionals who want to build a stronger organizational culture, lead with more compassion, and create workplaces where people truly belong.Topics covered include: work culture, business culture, organizational culture, leadership and business, servant leadership, core values, team communication, leadership development, and intentional culture-building.Connect with Rabbi Mike Moskowitz: 🌐 shirshalom.org 📧 Email: mikem@shirshalom.org The Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast helps leaders improve work culture, communication, and business performance through real-world leadership strategies and practical insights. Click here to view the episode transcript. Learn more about training, coaching, and courses at https://vibrantculture.comConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/build-a-vibrant-culture-nicole-greer/For speaking inquiries: https://vibrantculture.com/speaker-kit-request/Download our training catalog: https://vibrantculture.com/catalog-request/Want to be a guest? Send your request to podcast@vibrantculture.com
• How to Build an Inclusive Mindset at Work & Home with Justin Jones-Fosu 27.05.2026 55min

  Want to build a stronger work culture where everyone feels welcome, heard, and valued? In this episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole Greer sits down with speaker, author, and inclusion strategist Justin Jones-Fosu to explore how leaders can develop an inclusive mindset and why it matters more than ever for business culture and team performance.In this episode, you'll learn:✔️ The difference between an inclusive mindset and an exclusion mindset ✔️ Why most people mis-define diversity,  and how to reframe it for your team ✔️ The growth mindset principles that make inclusion actually stick ✔️ Practical strategies like the 1MC/W formula and the Circles of Grace Challenge ✔️ How to create a work culture where people feel they truly belongThis episode is for leaders, managers, business owners, and professionals who want to improve organizational culture, strengthen team communication, and build workplaces where people thrive.Topics covered include: inclusive mindset, work culture, organizational culture, business culture, diversity and inclusion, leadership development, team communication, leadership and business, belonging at work, growth mindset, and career growth.Connect with Justin Jones-Fosu: 📘 The Inclusive Mindset,  available wherever books are sold 📘 I Respectfully Disagree,  available wherever books are soldThe Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast helps leaders improve work culture, communication, and business performance through real-world leadership strategies and practical insights. Click here to view the episode transcript. Learn more about training, coaching, and courses at https://vibrantculture.comConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/build-a-vibrant-culture-nicole-greer/For speaking inquiries: https://vibrantculture.com/speaker-kit-request/Download our training catalog: https://vibrantculture.com/catalog-request/Want to be a guest? Send your request to podcast@vibrantculture.com
• How to Build Bravery and Lead with Courage with Jill Schulman 20.05.2026 43min

  Want to build a work culture where people speak up, take initiative, and lead with confidence? This episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast dives into the science of bravery and what it actually takes to build courageous teams.In this episode, Nicole Greer sits down with Jill Schulman, US Marine Corps veteran, keynote speaker, and author of The Bravery Effect, to explore how bravery isn't reserved for Navy SEALs and firefighters. It's the everyday courage to speak up in a meeting, have a hard conversation, or raise your hand for a leadership opportunity.This conversation also dives into positive psychology, growth mindset, stress, confidence, self-efficacy, and why waiting until you feel ready may be the very thing keeping you stuck. If you want to create a workplace culture where people speak up, take ownership, grow through discomfort, and support one another in doing hard things, this episode is packed with practical insight.In this episode, you'll learn:Why bravery is a skill you can build (not a personality trait you're born with)How to stop waiting to feel confident before taking actionThe neuroscience behind building your "bravery muscle"Why surrounding yourself with the right people accelerates your growthHow to use fear as a signal rather than a stop signThis episode is for leaders, managers, business owners, and emerging professionals who want to improve team communication, strengthen organizational culture, and create workplaces where people are brave enough to perform at their best.Connect with Jill:Jill's book, The Bravery Effect: https://a.co/d/6f8NymUWebsite: https://www.jillschulman.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillaschulman/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jillschulman/YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jillschulman?si=OLp_zRLNANAiidSy The Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast helps leaders improve work culture, communication, and business performance through real-world leadership strategies and practical insights. Click here to view the episode transcript. Learn more about training, coaching, and courses at https://vibrantculture.comConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/build-a-vibrant-culture-nicole-greer/For speaking inquiries: https://vibrantculture.com/speaker-kit-request/Download our training catalog: https://vibrantculture.com/catalog-request/Want to be a guest? Send your request to podcast@vibrantculture.com
• Hardcore Soft Skills: How To Master The Hardest Leadership Skills 13.05.2026 51min

  Want to improve team communication, build a stronger work culture, and lead with more confidence? In this episode, Nicole Greer sits down with organizational psychologist and author Yadi Caro to unpack why soft skills are actually the hardest and most important skills in business today. Yadi Caro is the author of Hardcore Soft Skills: A Guide to Work with Humans.  In it, she explores the communication, collaboration, conflict management, and leadership skills that make organizations truly effective.Yadi shares practical strategies for building high-performing teams, improving workplace communication, handling conflict productively, giving effective feedback, leading through change, and creating meetings that “suck less.” The conversation also dives into emotional intelligence, empathy, networking, problem-solving, and why AI will never replace genuine human connection.If you want to improve your leadership skills, strengthen your organizational culture, and become better at working with humans, this episode is packed with actionable insights.In this episode:Why “soft skills” are actually hardcore skillsThe role of self-awareness in leadershipHow empathy improves team performanceWhy listening is a competitive advantageHow to prevent workplace misunderstandingsBetter ways to give and receive feedbackConflict management strategies that build stronger teamsWhy productive meetings matterLeadership skills AI can’t replaceHow to create a more vibrant workplace cultureGet Yadi’s book: Hardcore Soft Skills: A Guide to Work with HumansYadi Caro is an organizational psychology practitioner, certified Agile coach, and Harvard-trained expert who has worked with developer teams, engineers, and US military organizations for over 15 years. Her book, Hardcore Soft Skills: A Guide to Working with Humans, is a hands-on workbook packed with frameworks, assessments, and exercises you can use immediately. Learn more about Yadi: Yadi Caro Official Website: https://www.yadicaro.com/The Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast helps leaders improve work culture, communication, and business performance through real-world leadership strategies and practical insights. Click here to view the episode transcript. Learn more about training, coaching, and courses at https://vibrantculture.comConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/build-a-vibrant-culture-nicole-greer/For speaking inquiries: https://vibrantculture.com/speaker-kit-request/Download our training catalog: https://vibrantculture.com/catalog-request/Want to be a guest? Send your request to podcast@vibrantculture.com
• The Real Secret to Compensation Strategy: Start With Philosophy 06.05.2026 44min

  If your compensation strategy starts with pay bands, you’re already behind.In this episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole Greer sits down with compensation expert Scott Trumpolt to unpack what leaders get wrong about pay, and how to fix it.With over 30 years of experience in HR leadership and compensation design, Scott shares why compensation isn’t just about salaries. It's about philosophy, strategy, and aligning pay with business goals.You’ll learn:Why compensation strategy must start with company philosophyThe biggest mistake companies make when promoting top performersHow to balance pay transparency with business realitiesWhy giving everyone the same raise destroys engagementHow compensation can drive (or destroy) employee performanceThe link between career development and pay growthIf you want to attract top talent, retain your best people, and build a truly vibrant culture, this conversation is a must-listen. The Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast helps leaders improve work culture, communication, and business performance through real-world leadership strategies and practical insights. Click here to view the episode transcript. Learn more about training, coaching, and courses at https://vibrantculture.comConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/build-a-vibrant-culture-nicole-greer/For speaking inquiries: https://vibrantculture.com/speaker-kit-request/Download our training catalog: https://vibrantculture.com/catalog-request/Want to be a guest? Send your request to podcast@vibrantculture.com
• Cybersecurity Is a Leadership Problem (Not an IT Problem) How to Protect Your Business Before It’s Too Late 29.04.2026 51min

  What if cybersecurity isn’t an IT issue but a leadership failure?In this episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole Greer sits down with global cybersecurity expert JC Gaillard, founder of Corix Partners, to unpack why most organizations are approaching cybersecurity all wrong and what leaders must do differently.This conversation dives into work culture, organizational culture, leadership and business strategy, and the critical role of executive ownership in protecting your company. You’ll learn why cybersecurity is no longer about prevention. It’s about resilience, trust, and execution across the entire organization.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility, not just ITThe dangerous “spiral of failure” most companies are stuck inThe real reason throwing money at cybersecurity doesn’t workHow short-term thinking is putting businesses at riskWhy trust—not technology—is the foundation of real securityWhat leaders must do to embed business protection into cultureRemember, in today’s world, it’s not if, it’s when.This episode is for:Leaders, executives, HR professionals, and business owners who want to strengthen organizational culture, improve leadership effectiveness, and protect their business from real-world threats.Recommended Books by JC Gaillard:Cybersecurity Spiral of FailureThe First 100 Days of the New CISOA CyberSecurity Handbook for the CISO and the CEOThe Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast helps leaders improve work culture, communication, and business performance through real-world leadership strategies and practical insights. Click here to view the episode transcript. Learn more about training, coaching, and courses at https://vibrantculture.comConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/build-a-vibrant-culture-nicole-greer/For speaking inquiries: https://vibrantculture.com/speaker-kit-request/Download our training catalog: https://vibrantculture.com/catalog-request/Want to be a guest? Send your request to podcast@vibrantculture.com
• How to Develop Talent Instead of Chasing It | Franco Greco on Leadership, Hiring, and Building a High-Performance Culture 22.04.2026 43min

  If you’re struggling with hiring, retaining talent, or building a strong organizational culture, this episode is a must-listen.Nicole Greer sits down with Franco Greco, Chief Revenue Officer at New Day USA, to explore how developing talent, not chasing it, can transform your organization.This conversation dives into work culture, organizational culture, leadership and business strategy, team communication, and effective management practices. You’ll learn how to build a pipeline of high-performing employees, create a culture of accountability, and develop leaders from within.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why hiring for grit, integrity, and willingness beats hiring for experienceHow to solve the “talent shortage” by developing people internallyA proven recruiting process that builds long-term leadersHow internships can become your strongest leadership pipelineWhy leading with kindness (not niceness) drives accountability and performanceThis episode is for leaders, managers, business owners, and HR professionals who want to improve communication, strengthen organizational culture, and grow their teams with intention.The Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast helps leaders improve work culture, communication, and business performance through real-world leadership strategies and practical insights. Click here to view the episode transcript. Learn more about training, coaching, and courses at https://vibrantculture.comConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/build-a-vibrant-culture-nicole-greer/For speaking inquiries: https://vibrantculture.com/speaker-kit-request/Download our training catalog: https://vibrantculture.com/catalog-request/Want to be a guest? Send your request to podcast@vibrantculture.com
• Stop Creating AI “Slop”: How to Turn Real Conversations Into Marketing That Converts 15.04.2026 28min

  What if your best marketing content is already happening inside your business, and you’re just not using it?In this episode, Nicole Greer sits down with Phil Risher, founder of Phlash Consulting, to uncover why most marketing today feels generic and how to fix it.Phil introduces the “Call-to-Content” playbook, a powerful strategy that turns real customer conversations into authentic, high-converting marketing. Instead of relying on AI-generated content that feels disconnected from your brand, he shows how to leverage your team’s real expertise to build trust and authority.We also explore:Why employees are your brandThe danger of “AI slop” in marketingHow to build AI knowledge bases from your businessWhy more leads won’t fix a broken conversion funnelHow featuring employees strengthens both culture and marketingIf you want marketing that actually drives revenue and a culture that supports it, this episode is packed with actionable insights.The Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast helps leaders improve work culture, communication, and business performance through real-world leadership strategies and practical insights. Click here to view the episode transcript. Learn more about training, coaching, and courses at https://vibrantculture.comConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/build-a-vibrant-culture-nicole-greer/For speaking inquiries: https://vibrantculture.com/speaker-kit-request/Download our training catalog: https://vibrantculture.com/catalog-request/Want to be a guest? Send your request to podcast@vibrantculture.com
• The Leadership Skill That Fixes Workplace Culture and Saves You Money 08.04.2026 1t 6min

  What if the most powerful leadership skill isn’t speaking but listening?In this episode of Build a Vibrant Culture, Nicole Greer sits down with listening expert and author Oscar Trimboli to unpack how deep listening can transform workplace culture, improve communication, and even save organizations time and money.Drawing from research with over 36,000 workplace listeners, Oscar reveals why most leaders aren’t actually listening and how that creates systemic cultural challenges across teams.You’ll discover:Why listening is a skill, strategy, and daily practiceHow poor listening leads to wasted time, rework, and disengaged employeesThe 5 levels of listening and why most people never get past level oneSimple, practical ways to improve communication in meetings immediately, and make them more efficient (and shorter)How better listening reduces resistance to change and builds trustWhy employee feedback systems fail and how to fix themIf you’re a leader, manager, or anyone responsible for building a healthy workplace culture, this conversation will challenge how you think about communication and give you tools you can use right away.Remember: People don’t resist change. They resist not being heard.The Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast helps leaders improve work culture, communication, and business performance through real-world leadership strategies and practical insights. Click here to view the episode transcript. Learn more about training, coaching, and courses at https://vibrantculture.comConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/build-a-vibrant-culture-nicole-greer/For speaking inquiries: https://vibrantculture.com/speaker-kit-request/Download our training catalog: https://vibrantculture.com/catalog-request/Want to be a guest? Send your request to podcast@vibrantculture.com
• 8 Power Skills (Not “Soft Skills”) Every Leader Needs with Nanci Appleman-Vassil 01.04.2026 48min

  What if “soft skills” are actually the most powerful leadership skills you can have?In this episode, Nicole Greer sits down with leadership expert Nanci Appleman-Vassil to break down the 8 power skills every leader must have to build strong teams, improve communication, and create a thriving work culture.From reading the energy in a room to giving feedback that actually drives change, these leadership skills are not optional—they’re essential for leaders who want to show up with clarity, confidence, and real impact.If you’re a leader, manager, or business owner looking to improve engagement, strengthen communication, and build accountability on your team—this conversation is your playbook.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✔️ Why “soft skills” are actually power skills✔️ How to build a strong organizational culture✔️ How leaders communicate effectively✔️ How to improve team communication and accountability✔️ Leadership strategies that work in real businesses✔️ Practical approaches to project management and team performanceThe 8 Power Skills Every Leader Must Have:00:04:04 Reading the Room: Picking up on energy, body language, and engagement00:13:51 Giving Meaningful Feedback: Why telling isn’t feedback00:14:23 Addressing Issues in the Moment: Stop waiting, start leading00:17:25 Staying Curious Instead of Judgmental: Engage instead of label00:24:15 Building Self-Awareness: Understanding yourself and others00:30:53 Adapting Your Communication Style: Move beyond “this is just how I am”00:32:26 Creating Psychological Safety: Prevent disengagement and turnover00:36:19 Connecting Strategy to People: Align plans with real humansWant to build a stronger work culture, improve leadership, and create a thriving team? You’re in the right place.Connect with Nanci:18 Common Mistakes Small Business Owners Make: https://a.co/d/069ec1ZwNanci's Website: https://www.nanciapplemanvassil.com/APLS Group Website: https://aplsgroup.com/Nanci's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nanciapplemanvassil/APLS Group LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/281681/admin/dashboard/FREE DOWNLOAD: You're on the Workplace Stage https://talk.ac/nanci (Code: KIND)Learn more about training, coaching, and courses at https://vibrantculture.comConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/build-a-vibrant-culture-nicole-greer/For speaking inquiries: https://vibrantculture.com/speaker-kit-request/Download our training catalog: https://vibrantculture.com/catalog-request/Want to be a guest? Send your request to podcast@vibrantculture.comWatch Nicole’s TEDx Talk: https://youtu.be/SMbxA90bfXE
• 5 Roles Every Leader Must Play in Times of Disruption with Patrick Leddin, PhD 25.03.2026 55min

  Disruption isn't something to survive—it's something to leverage.In this episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole Greer sits down with leadership expert and co-author of Disrupt Everything and Win, Patrick Leddin, to unpack how leaders can stop reacting to change and start using it as fuel for growth.At the center of the conversation is a powerful idea: Great leaders don’t just respond to disruption—they choose the role the moment requires.You’ll be introduced to the 5 roles every leader must play in times of disruption:The Trailblazer, who takes initiative and moves toward changeThe Torchbearer, who brings others along and builds momentumThe Firefighter, who protects focus by saying “not now”The Fire Chief, who anchors the team in purpose and stabilityThe Tinder Gatherer, who slows things down to create clarity and better decisionsAlong the way, you’ll learn how to tap into your inner “fire” (purpose), apply the Positive Disruptor Loop, and build the kind of resilience that allows you—and your team—to thrive in uncertainty.If you’re leading through change, navigating challenges, or simply trying to make smarter decisions in a fast-moving world, this episode will give you the mindset and tools to not just handle disruption… but win through it.Vibrant Highlights:[03:28] Why Disruption Isn’t About Changing Everything - Sometimes the most powerful move is saying no and doubling down on what matters most.[13:58] The Positive Disruptor Loop - Disrupt → Discern → Behave → Achieve → Refine — the cycle that builds resilience and results.[28:31] The Anatomy of a Positive Disruptor - 16 behaviors across mindset, communication, courage, and action.[44:00] Reset the Room - One simple leadership move that can instantly shift energy and engagement.[48:42] A Personal Story on Disrupting Relationships - Why small intentional changes can deeply transform your most important connections.Connect with Patrick:Disrupt Everything and Win book: https://a.co/d/0hCqJePIFREE Download: jamespatterson.com/disrupt-downloadsWebsites: patrickleddin.com • jamespatterson.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickleddin/Also mentioned in this episode:The Path by Laurie Beth Jones https://a.co/d/03nMdLWNListen at vibrantculture.com/podcast or wherever you get your podcasts!Book Nicole to help your organization ignite clarity, accountability, and energy through her SHINE™ Coaching Methodology.Visit vibrantculture.comEmail: nicole@vibrantculture.comWatch Nicole’s TEDx Talk: https://youtu.be/SMbxA90bfXE
• 4 Keys to a Meaningful Life: Be Hopeful, Be Strong, Be Brave, Be Curious with Ruth Pearce 18.03.2026 55min

  What does it really mean to live a meaningful life?In this episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole Greer sits down with keynote speaker, executive coach, and author Ruth Pearce to explore the powerful mindset shifts that help people get out of their own way and start living with purpose.Drawing from her book, Be Hopeful, Be Strong, Be Brave, Be Curious, Ruth shares the four essential qualities that help individuals move from feeling stuck and uncertain to becoming confident, motivated, and future-focused.Together, Nicole and Ruth unpack how understanding your strengths, redefining “normal,” and cultivating curiosity can transform both your leadership and your life. You’ll also learn why hope is not just wishful thinking—it’s a strategic mindset built on vision, pathways, and action.If you’re looking for practical coaching insights to help you clarify your purpose, strengthen your leadership, and build a meaningful future, this conversation is packed with wisdom.Vibrant Highlights:04:30 – Why you should start with who you are - The power of identifying your strengths and challenging the stories you tell yourself.10:15 – Meaningless life vs. meaningful life - Exploring purpose, direction, and the questions that help people gain clarity.18:30 – Why “normal” is different for everyone - How redefining your personal baseline helps you understand yourself better.23:45 – The real definition of hope - Hope = Vision + Agency + Pathways.33:50 – Discovering and using your strengths - Why strengths include character, values, talents, and skills.44:30 – What bravery actually looks like - Why doing something despite fear is the true definition of courage.47:45 – The power of curiosity in leadership - How curious leaders unlock better ideas, creativity, and problem-solving.Connect with Ruth:Be Hopeful, Be Strong, Be Brave, Be Curious: https://a.co/d/0gRqFh00Website: https://aleverlongenough.org/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruth-pearce/Also mentioned in this episode:VIA Institute on Character https://www.viacharacter.org/The Path by Laurie Beth Jones https://a.co/d/0hWg3RxXTodd Kashdan https://toddkashdan.com/The Courage Quotient https://a.co/d/0cjFG1HTListen at vibrantculture.com/podcast or wherever you get your podcasts!Book Nicole to help your organization ignite clarity, accountability, and energy through her SHINE™ Coaching Methodology.Visit vibrantculture.comEmail: nicole@vibrantculture.comWatch Nicole’s TEDx Talk: https://youtu.be/SMbxA90bfXE
• 7 Shifts That Turn Learning & Development into a Strategic Partner with Jess Almlie 11.03.2026 40min

  Training alone won’t transform an organization—but the right 7 shifts in L&D just might.In this episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole Greer sits down with learning and talent development strategist Jess Almlie, founder of Almlie Consulting and author of L&D Order Taker No More! Become a Strategic Business Partner.Jess shares insights from her decades of experience helping organizations transform their learning and development functions from transactional training providers into strategic business partners. She explains why many L&D teams get stuck as “order takers,” how leaders can begin shifting that dynamic, and why aligning learning with business strategy is essential for driving real performance improvement.Nicole and Jess explore the cultural challenges organizations face around learning, the importance of measuring impact, and the small but powerful shifts that help L&D leaders increase their influence and deliver meaningful business results.If you're a leader, trainer, HR professional, or anyone responsible for developing people, this conversation will challenge the way you think about learning inside organizations—and inspire you to move from reactive training to strategic impact.Vibrant Highlights:00:00:32 – Nicole introduces Jess Almlie and her mission to help L&D leaders become strategic business partners.00:07:58 – The importance of creating a culture where learning is valued and employees actually want to grow.00:22:46 – Why both teams and organizations win when learning aligns with real performance needs.00:34:24 – How L&D professionals can begin building a true learning strategy.00:39:07 – Jess explains why the shift from order taker to strategist happens gradually, through small intentional moves.Connect with Jess:Book: https://a.co/d/0dllIdVAWebsite: jessalmlie.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessalmlie/Ready to build a culture where people feel valued, energized, and committed?Bring Nicole Greer, The Vibrant Coach, to your leadership team, organization, or conference to ignite clarity, accountability, energy, and results.Visit: vibrantculture.comEmail: nicole@vibrantculture.comWatch Nicole’s TEDx Talk: vibrantculture.com/videos
• From Delegation to Development: The Future of Leadership with Brad Federman 04.03.2026 46min

  Delegation is broken — and it’s costing you growth, engagement, and retention.On this week’s episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole sits down with Brad Federman, author of Never Delegate Again, and together they  dismantle outdated leadership thinking that no longer works in today’s world.Brad explains why company life cycles have shrunk, why skills now expire in just a few years, and why leaders must shift from “managing performance” to coaching development. He shares his Growth Matrix, his Five Stages of Change model, and a powerful Culture Character framework that reveals why so many organizations struggle.If you care about building a vibrant culture, retaining top talent, and staying relevant in an AI-driven world—this episode is a must-listen.Vibrant Highlights:04:44 – Why traditional delegation models (including the Eisenhower Matrix) are outdated in today’s fast-moving, specialized economy00:07:05 – Growth is the new psychological contract between employers and employees23:49 – Why most organizational change efforts fail (and how leaders sabotage them unintentionally)30:12 – The Five Stages of Change: No Way, Maybe, Get Ready, Act, Routine38:48 – The Culture Character Model: Balancing people and results to create a thriving organization42:45 – Two small leadership shifts that dramatically improve retention and performanceConnect with Brad:Book https://a.co/d/01Kovd2JWebsite https://www.bradfederman.com/Business: https://www.performancepointllc.com/Email: bfederman@performancepointllc.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradfederman/Business LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/performance-point-llc/Also mentioned on this episode:Marshall Goldsmith "Feedforward": https://youtu.be/tFX74GIxca4?si=jIMfzHazW8y1Mcv2The Path by Laurie Beth Jones: https://a.co/d/03uwtZ6PThe Tilt Model: https://www.tilt365.com/aboutIgnite your culture. Elevate your leaders. Activate your people.Nicole Greer delivers transformational keynotes and trainings that spark clarity, accountability, energy, and lasting results.Ready to light it up?Visit: vibrantculture.comEmail: nicole@vibrantculture.comWatch Nicole’s TEDx Talk: vibrantculture.com/videos
• Culture Shocked: Leadership Lessons from 100 Countries with Dean Foster 25.02.2026 57min

  What does a missing jar of marmalade in India reveal about global leadership?You might be surprised.In this episode of Build a Vibrant Culture, Nicole Greer sits down with cross-cultural business expert Dean Foster, author of Business Beyond Borders, to explore what he’s learned from working in more than 100 countries. From communication styles and time management to risk tolerance, information sharing, and workplace formality, Dean shares powerful stories that reveal how culture quietly shapes everything we do at work.If you lead a global team, work across time zones, or collaborate with people from different backgrounds — this conversation will expand your awareness and sharpen your leadership.Vibrant Highlights:[00:12:50] The Missing Marmalade StoryDean shares how ordering a croissant in India turned into a masterclass on indirect communication and hierarchy — and what it means for leaders managing global teams.[00:20:13] Direct vs. Indirect CulturesWhy Americans “say what they mean,” why some cultures don’t — and how misreading this can create serious workplace breakdowns.[00:23:19] Managing the Clock Across CulturesFrom strict deadlines to flexible time norms, Dean explains how history, climate, and agriculture shaped how cultures view punctuality and planning.[00:32:04] Information Sharing & Risk ToleranceSome cultures share everything. Others guard information as power. Dean explains how this connects to decision-making and comfort with risk.[00:54:51] The #1 Rule for Working Anywhere in the WorldDean’s final advice after decades of global consulting: Stay humble. You’re a guest — and leadership means adapting, not imposing.Connect with Dean:Book: Business Beyond Borders https://a.co/d/0eKdRaryOther books by Dean: bit.ly/4aNXar9Website: deanfosterglobal.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/dfainterculturalYouTube: youtube.com/deanfosterglobalIG: @deanfosterglobalPodcast: oopscultureshow.blubrry.netReady to build a culture where people feel valued, energized, and committed?Bring Nicole Greer, The Vibrant Coach, to your leadership team, organization, or conference to ignite clarity, accountability, energy, and results.Visit: vibrantculture.comEmail: nicole@vibrantculture.comWatch Nicole’s TEDx Talk: vibrantculture.com/videos
• Mindset + Metrics: How Heart-Centered Leadership Drives Real Results with Luca Romano 18.02.2026 50min

  What happens when an engineer, executive leader, and yoga instructor come together in one person?Transformation.In this powerful episode, Nicole Greer sits down with seasoned operations leader and business coach Luca Romano to explore what it truly means to build a vibrant culture — especially in high-pressure manufacturing environments. After experiencing burnout and a life-changing spinal cord injury, Luca redefined leadership for himself. Blending his engineering mindset with mindfulness and emotional intelligence, he now leads with clarity, courage, and purpose.Vibrant Highlights:00:02:33 — Vibrant culture is positive energy directed toward progress. Energy spent on fear, politics, or self-protection drains results. Culture puts people at the center and aligns behavior around shared values.00:14:00 — Courage is required to move beyond people-pleasing. It is better to fail on your own conviction than succeed while betraying your values. Fear-based leadership wastes energy and undermines performance.00:22:00 — Culture drives measurable business results. After implementing shared core values, structured communication, and EOS, on-time delivery improved from 51% to 91%.00:24:20 — Training is an investment, not a cost. Skipping development to “save time” only postpones problems. Investing in people strengthens retention and long-term performance.00:35:30 — Coaching in and coaching out requires clarity. When behavioral expectations are clearly defined, difficult conversations become structured and productive — sometimes separation becomes a gift.Connect with Luca:Website: manufacturing-coach.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luca-romano-mba-041b531/FB: https://www.facebook.com/luca.romano.505512IG: https://www.instagram.com/floaterone74/#Ready to build a culture where people feel valued, energized, and committed?Bring Nicole Greer, The Vibrant Coach, to your leadership team, organization, or conference to ignite clarity, accountability, energy, and results.Visit: vibrantculture.comEmail: nicole@vibrantculture.comWatch Nicole’s TEDx Talk: vibrantculture.com/videos
• Culture Always Wins: How Mint Hill Dentistry Built a 5-Star Team Experience with Dr. AJ Tremont & Taylor Plyler 11.02.2026 46min

  What does it really take to scale a business without sacrificing culture?In this episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole Greer sits down with Dr. AJ Tremont and Taylor Plyler of Mint Hill Dentistry to unpack how intentional leadership, servant mindset, and people-first systems have helped them grow four thriving dental practices—while maintaining a five-star experience for patients and employees.From shutting down operations for culture days (yes, really!) to using EOS, core values, and powerful storytelling exercises to build trust and connection, this conversation is a masterclass in what it means to lead with heart and still win in business.You’ll hear real stories about hiring for character, creating psychological safety, overcoming scarcity mindset, and why culture isn’t something you hang on the wall—it’s something you live every day.Vibrant Highlights:00:02:44 – Culture Always Wins: Dr. AJ Tremont explains why they willingly shut down operations and invested time and money into their people—because when culture is strong, everything else follows.00:07:20 – Core Values in Action (Not on a Wall): AJ and Taylor share how they actively use core values by nominating and recognizing team members who live them, turning values into daily behaviors instead of empty words.00:11:59 – Going Above and Beyond for Patients: A powerful story about a team member driving 25 minutes to help an elderly patient—showing what “being a difference maker” truly looks like in action.00:19:23 – The Exercise That Changed Team Relationships: The team uses a vulnerability-based storytelling exercise inspired by The Five Dysfunctions of a Team that deepened trust, empathy, and respect across roles.00:26:39 – Fail Fast and Lead with Heart: AJ and Taylor share their leadership philosophies: don’t fear failure, embrace hard conversations, and remember that servant leadership fuels both performance and profit.Connect with Dr. Tremont and Taylor:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aj-tremont-987115264/minthilldentistry.com (Mint Hill, NC)southerncharmdentistrync.com (Concord, NC)albemarledentistry.com (Albemarle, NC)Also mentioned on this episode:The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: https://a.co/d/0dEvm4mhAuthor Keith Cunningham: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Keith-J.-Cunningham/author/B00606AQZ2?ref=ap_…Ready to build a culture where people feel valued, energized, and committed?Bring Nicole Greer, The Vibrant Coach, to your leadership team, organization, or conference to ignite clarity, accountability, energy, and results.Visit: vibrantculture.comEmail: nicole@vibrantculture.comWatch Nicole’s TEDx Talk: vibrantculture.com/videos
• Culture Shock: How Microcultures Can Make or Break Your Organization with Lisa Hazen 04.02.2026 49min

  What happens when great people bring their old culture into your organization—and no one talks about it? In this episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole Greer is joined by Lisa Hazen, co-author of Culture Shock and founder of StoriTel, for a deep dive into the hidden force shaping organizations from the inside out: microcultures.Lisa draws on 25+ years in the biopharma industry to explain how microcultures form, why they’re not inherently bad, and how—when left unmanaged—they can quietly erode collaboration, innovation, and trust. Together, Nicole and Lisa explore how leaders can turn culture shock into a strategic advantage by intentionally shaping an agile, resonant employer brand.This conversation is packed with real-world examples, practical frameworks, and powerful insights for leaders navigating growth, mergers, high turnover, or constant change—whether you’re in biopharma or any people-driven industry. If you care about retention, resilience, and results, this episode is a must-listen.Vibrant Highlights06:45 – Microcultures form when people bring more than their resumes into a new organization; they bring shared habits, language, and ways of working that can subtly reshape culture.10:15 – Microcultures aren’t inherently negative and can drive fast productivity, but when left unmanaged they create silos, exclusion, and internal disconnect.13:45 – Resilience is not an innate trait but a learned skill, and coaching provides a critical anchor for employees navigating constant change and instability.18:30 – Building an agile, resonant employer brand requires identifying authentic cultural themes, intentionally evangelizing them, and continuously adapting as the organization evolves.44:15 – The cost of ignoring culture and microcultures is exponentially higher than the cost of investing in them, impacting innovation, retention, and long-term business health.Connect with Lisa:Culture Shock by Lisa Hazen & Kim Hazen:  https://a.co/d/dNSyIdzWebsite: https://www.storitel.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisahazenstoritel/LI Business: https://www.linkedin.com/company/back-bay-storitel/BONUS: Email nicole@vibrantculture.com to receive a FREE Change Readiness Assessment!Also mentioned in this episode:Who Moved My Cheese by Spencer Johnson: https://a.co/d/3i9zXc2The Danger Booth: https://www.thedangerbooth.com/Listen at vibrantculture.com/podcast or wherever you get your podcasts!Book Nicole to help your organization ignite clarity, accountability, and energy through her SHINE™ Coaching Methodology.Visit vibrantculture.comEmail: nicole@vibrantculture.comWatch Nicole’s TEDx Talk: https://youtu.be/SMbxA90bfXE
• The NAP Framework: How Rest Fuels Clarity, Energy & Results with Dr. Erin Wilson 28.01.2026 40min

  When was the last time you rested on purpose—and not just because your body forced you to stop?  If exhaustion were no longer a badge of honor, would you lead differently?In this vibrant and energizing conversation, Nicole Greer sits down with Dr. Erin Wilson, CEO of Design Ideal Consulting and co-author of Strategic Rest in Leadership: The NAP Framework. Together, they challenge hustle culture and unpack how intentional, strategic rest fuels clarity, creativity, decision-making, and healthier workplace cultures.Dr. Erin shares her personal wake-up call that led her to redefine rest, introduces the NAP Framework (Nurture, Assess, Prioritize), and offers practical, leader-tested ways to embed rest into daily work rhythms—without sacrificing performance. From no-meeting days to 50-minute meetings, micro-pauses, and redefining productivity, this episode is a must-listen for leaders who want sustainable success and a truly vibrant culture.Connect with Dr. Erin:Get the Book! Strategic Rest in Leadership: https://a.co/d/gPoTVTPWebsite: https://www.designidealconsulting.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drerinwilson/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DesignIdealConsultingYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PowerNAPLiveFREE Relationship Intelligence Checklist for Leaders:  https://www.designidealconsulting.com/freerqchecklistAlso mentioned in this episode:Dan Sullivan: https://www.strategiccoach.com/Margin by Dr. Richard Swenson: https://a.co/d/g5pR3Bm7 Types of Rest by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith: https://ideas.ted.com/the-7-types-of-rest-that-every-person-needs/Listen at vibrantculture.com/podcast or wherever you get your podcasts!Book Nicole to help your organization ignite clarity, accountability, and energy through her SHINE™ Coaching Methodology.Visit vibrantculture.comEmail: nicole@vibrantculture.comWatch Nicole’s TEDx Talk: https://youtu.be/SMbxA90bfXE