Evolving Your Workplace

Episodes

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  They’re Not Lazy — You’re Just Not Ready for Them 29.10.2026 44m

  What does Gen Z really want from the workplace—and why are traditional leadership approaches struggling to meet their expectations?In this episode of Evolving Your Workplace, host Carol Schultz sits down with Alice Sherman, CEO of HVS Executive Search, to discuss how organizations can attract, develop, and retain the next generation of talent.Alice's career journey is a story of growth from the ground up. After starting in hospitality operations, she joined HVS Executive Search and worked her way through the organization, identifying opportunities to improve recruiter training, developing her leadership skills, and eventually stepping into the CEO role.Drawing on her experience in executive recruiting and leadership, Alice explains why employers need to rethink how they manage Gen Z. Rather than lowering standards, organizations need to understand what good leadership looks like today—and create workplaces where people can contribute ideas, exercise judgment, collaborate, and feel connected to their work.Carol and Alice also discuss succession planning, the importance of developing future leaders internally, and why executive recruiting should be about more than filling an open position. They explore how ethical recruiting, strong relationships, and a thoughtful candidate experience benefit both organizations and the people they hire.In this episode, you'll discover:What Gen Z wants at work: Why collaboration, creative thinking, judgment, and meaningful relationships matter to younger employees.Why traditional leadership needs to evolve: How workplaces built around obedience can fail to develop the skills organizations need today.The importance of training: Why companies must establish structured training processes instead of expecting new employees to figure everything out on their own.How to attract and retain Gen Z talent: Why salary transparency, benefits, work-life balance, empathy, and open communication matter.Succession planning that works: How thoughtful leadership transitions prepare organizations for the future and help emerging leaders succeed.Growing into a CEO role: Alice's journey from an entry-level position to leading HVS Executive Search—and the value of learning from experienced mentors.Why recruiting should be relationship-driven: How ethical hiring and a positive candidate experience build trust with both clients and candidates.The problems with poor recruiting practices: How sending unsuitable candidates and creating a frustrating interview process can damage relationships and waste valuable time.The power of authentic leadership: Why warmth, curiosity, transparency, and genuine human connection can make a difference in business.Building a workplace people want to join: How leaders can balance profitability with creating an organization employees are proud to represent.Whether you're a CEO, HR professional, recruiter, hiring manager, or business owner, this conversation offers practical insights into modern leadership, talent acquisition, succession planning, and building a workplace where different generations can thrive.The takeaway? You don't need to lower your standards to lead Gen Z effectively. You need to build a workplace that develops talent, values people, and reflects what good leadership should look like.About the guest: Alice ShermanAlice Sherman is the CEO of HVS Executive Search, the executive recruiting division of HVS, a global hospitality consulting platform. Her work focuses on executive recruiting, succession planning, organizational structure, and leadership advisory for the hospitality, restaurant, travel, and related industries.Connect with Alice:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alicesherman5/Company: HVS Executive SearchAbout the host: Carol SchultzCarol Schultz is an organizational strategist and the host of Evolving Your Workplace, where she speaks with experts and business leaders about leadership, workplace challenges, organizational structure, and business growth.Connect with Carol:Website: https://verticalelevation.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolbschultz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EvolvingYourWorkplaceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/growgreatteams/Listen to Evolving Your WorkplaceSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/72jbAC9Hk4P0EH9wxW1vy4Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/evolving-your-workplace/id1562180951Want to be a guest on the show? Email cat.gloria@verticalelevation.com with your information.Follow Evolving Your Workplace on your preferred podcast platform, and leave a rating or review to help more listeners discover the show.
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  Shamed for Choosing Work 22.10.2026 30m

  What does it really take to build a successful business while raising a family? And how do you keep pursuing your ambitions without losing sight of your own well-being?In this episode of Evolving Your Workplace, Carol Schultz sits down with Nicole Centeno, founder of Splendid Spoon, to discuss the realities of entrepreneurship, motherhood, and leading a growing company while navigating the demands of family life.Nicole founded Splendid Spoon around two things she loves: the science of food and the pleasure of eating. Inspired by her own experience of becoming a mother while working full-time, she saw an opportunity to make nourishing, enjoyable food more convenient for busy people.But building a business is about much more than having a great idea. Nicole opens up about the challenges of growing a company alongside raising children, making difficult personal decisions, taking risks, and learning to become comfortable with uncertainty. She also shares practical lessons on prioritization, protecting focused work time, and recognizing that not every business challenge is an emergency.The conversation explores the additional pressures women often face as founders and leaders, including cultural expectations around motherhood, the fear of taking risks, and the importance of trusting yourself—even when the path forward is uncomfortable.In this episode, you'll discover:The inspiration behind Splendid Spoon: How Nicole combined food science, culinary passion, and a personal need for convenient nourishment to build her business.Motherhood and entrepreneurship: What it's like to grow a company while raising children and managing competing priorities.Why self-care matters: How taking care of yourself can help you show up more effectively for your family and your business.Making better decisions under pressure: Why stepping back from a perceived crisis can help founders think more clearly.The power of focused work: Nicole's approach to mandatory deep work and protecting at least three uninterrupted hours for important tasks.Getting comfortable with discomfort: Why risk tolerance, learning from mistakes, and embracing uncertainty are essential parts of entrepreneurship.The challenges women face in leadership: How cultural expectations and unequal support can affect women's ambitions and entrepreneurial journeys.Trusting yourself: Why staying true to your values can help you navigate difficult personal and professional decisions.Whether you're a founder, business leader, working parent, or aspiring entrepreneur, this conversation offers an honest look at the personal side of building a business—and a reminder that success doesn't require you to ignore your own needs.About Nicole CentenoNicole Centeno is the founder of Splendid Spoon, a food company built around making nourishing and enjoyable meals more convenient for busy people. Her entrepreneurial journey brings together her interests in food science, culinary creativity, and helping people make more thoughtful choices about what they eat.Connect with Guest Nicole Centeno:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolecenteno/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/niccentCompany: Splendid Spoon — https://www.splendidspoon.com/Connect With Host Carol Schultz:Find more information about our host Carol Schultz and her company at Vertical Elevation, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.Subscribe to Evolving Your Workplace for more conversations with business leaders and entrepreneurs about building stronger companies and creating healthier workplaces.#NicoleCenteno #SplendidSpoon #EvolvingYourWorkplace
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  How to use behavioral science to best target your buyer and market to them 15.10.2026 39m

  Most brands are trying to persuade people instead of understanding what actually makes them care. Kevin Perlmutter shows why the real competitive advantage is emotional insight—and how the brands that win are designed around how people want to feel. Carol Schultz sits down with Kevin, founder and chief brand strategist at Limbic Brand Evolution and author of Brand Desire, to unpack why traditional brand strategy often misses the mark. Kevin explains how his work in neuroscience and behavioral science reshaped the way he thinks about customer motivation, loyalty, and messaging—and why survey-based research and old-school “proof points” can keep companies stuck in their own assumptions. You’ll discover:Why emotion, not logic, is the biggest driver of brand loyaltyHow implicit association testing reveals subconscious responses that traditional surveys missThe difference between smart emotional marketing and manipulationWhy brand strategy must be built from customer insight, not internal opinionHow to create a brand idea that acts as a benefit and invitation, not an “about us” statementKevin shares the story of helping the ATT Performing Arts Center shift from “staging the amazing” to “yours to discover,” a simple change that opened the door to a broader audience and still guides the organization today. He also breaks down how B2B brands can shorten the sales cycle by speaking to human motivations, not just business features. This conversation also tackles the bigger picture: why brand strategy and business strategy need to work together, why product quality still matters, and why the best positioning comes from what your customers already feel, say, and return for. If you’re an entrepreneur, marketer, or leader trying to attract the right customers without sounding generic, manipulative, or forgettable, this episode gives you a sharper way to think about brand strategy—and a better way to build something people actually want.Connect With Host Carol SchultzFind more information about our host Carol Schultz and her company at Vertical Elevation, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.Connect With Guest Kevin PerlmutterFind out more about Kevin at Limbic Brand Evolution and LinkedIn, and find his book Brand DesireWant to be our next guest? Email cat.gloria@verticalelevation.com with your information.And of course, click "follow" to stay up to date on new episodes and leave an honest review/rating to let us know what you thought!
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  Build It for Yourself First — Growth Will Follow 08.10.2026 35m

  What if the fastest way to grow your business was to build tools for your own team first? Carol Schultz sits down with Socrates Bueno, founder and CEO of CVG Construction Management, to reveal how he turned an internal operational need into a lean, scalable business model that serves clients across the U.S. and Latin America. Socrates shares how CVG evolved from a traditional construction management firm into a company that also develops industry-specific software and AI tools, including IPM and MediaLounge. Those tools were born inside the business to solve real problems, then refined over years of live projects until they became a differentiator for other firms and developers. You'll discover:Why CVG pre-qualifies contractors before bidding, and how that protects quality as well as costThe real reason 95% of their business comes from referralsHow his team uses transparency, accountability, and real-time communication to build client trustWhy he believes companies should create leaders, not just manage employeesHow a remote-first, results-based culture survived COVID and became a competitive advantageCarol and Socrates also unpack the difference between wanting growth and being committed to it, the risks of finger-pointing in complex projects, and why the best client relationships are built when the owner feels like a true partner, not just a customer. This conversation is especially valuable if you're leading a service business, managing complex projects, or trying to scale without losing trust, culture, or control. If you want a practical look at how operational discipline, honest communication, and leadership development drive long-term growth, this one is worth your time.Connect With Host Carol SchultzFind more information about our host Carol Schultz and her company at Vertical Elevation, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.Connect with Guest Socrates BuenoFind out more about our guest Socrates Bueno and his company at CVG Construction Management and LinkedInWant to be our next guest? Email cat.gloria@verticalelevation.com with your information.And of course, click "follow" to stay up to date on new episodes and leave an honest review/rating, letting us know what you thought!
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  How NOT to lead your workplace: the AI adjustment every leader needs to make 01.10.2026 39m

  "AI isn't replacing human connection — it's making it more valuable than ever.", Morana MizrahiIn this episode, Morana Mizrahi, co-founder and COO of Rebillia Platform, shares insights on how AI is transforming business operations, strengthening leadership authenticity, and fostering better client relationships.This conversation explores why the most successful leaders in the AI era won't be the ones who automate everything, but the ones who lead with authenticity, build real relationships, and use AI to create more time for what matters most.Discover practical tips for leveraging AI to boost productivity and maintain genuine connections.We discussed:◼ Why AI should free people to build stronger relationships — not replace them◼ How authentic leadership is becoming the biggest competitive advantage in business◼ Why the future belongs to leaders who manage AI instead of letting AI manage them◼ How automation helped a startup grow without laying off a single employee◼ Why being more human—not more corporate—is the key to thriving in the AI era🎧 Find usSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/72jbAC9Hk4P0EH9wxW1vy4?si=b0eab40cecc343e3Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/evolving-your-workplace/id1562180951Connect With Host Carol SchultzFind more information about our host Carol Schultz and her company at Vertical Elevation, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.Want to be our next guest expert? Email cat.gloria@verticalelevation.com with your information.And of course, click "follow" to stay up to date on new episodes and leave an honest review/rating, letting us know what you thought!Connect with Morana MizrahiFind out more information about Morana and her company on LinkedIn and Rebillia Platform
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  Getting personal at work: use this tried and true technique to connect with employees 10.09.2026 34m

  In this week's episode of Throwback Thursday we revisit my conversations with Jimmy Rayford. The episode got so much great feedback that we thought it was necessary to revisit it. "People don't check their personal lives at the door—and pretending they do just makes it show up somewhere else." – Jimmy RayfordIn this week's episode, Carol Schultz sits down with Jimmy Rayford, CEO of Dealers Wholesale, to challenge the old-school belief that "work is work, personal is personal"—and to share the tried-and-true technique leaders can use to build real connection with their teams.Jimmy explains why suppressing what's happening in people's lives doesn't make it disappear—it just resurfaces in the work—and why the single most powerful move a leader can make is to model the openness they want to see. They dig into how simple rituals like "share something good" check-ins and Personal Growth Mondays turn ordinary meetings into genuine connection, why Jimmy embraced the role of "Chief Reassurance Officer" during COVID, and how a leader can build a culture of care without forcing anyone to overshare.The episode closes with candid talk on empowering your team, avoiding the founder-CEO bottleneck, and knowing when to give someone "enough rope"—plus Jimmy's parting advice on finding the environment that brings out your best work.Takeaways1. "Work is work, personal is personal" is outdated—people bring their whole selves to work whether leaders acknowledge it or not.2. You can't ask employees to be open and transparent while everything about you stays closed—modeling comes first.3. The most effective connection technique is simple: model the behavior you want to drive.4. Small, consistent rituals (like weekly "good news" shares) build deep familiarity over time.5. Personal Growth Mondays and deep-question prompts create space for real vulnerability—voluntarily.6. Timing matters: expect early adopters, late adopters, and never-adopters, and focus on whoever shows up.7. Vulnerability from a leader creates a "permission structure" for the whole organization.8. Smaller companies offer outsized impact—your decisions actually matter and you can see the results.9. Founder and CEO leaders risk becoming the bottleneck by involving themselves where they're not needed.10. Give people "enough rope"—but calibrate how much based on their track record and the stakes of the decision.Chapters00:00 Intro: Why "work is work, personal is personal" couldn't be further from the truth00:51 What Dealers Wholesale does & Jimmy's role as CEO02:38 Why the smallest company he's worked for became the best chapter of his career04:11 The hidden cost of bureaucracy and office politics in large organizations05:30 The former CEO who stayed on—and a 38-year lesson in humility and loyalty07:48 The death of the "company guy" and why companies aren't loyal anymore09:58 How getting older changed Jimmy's view on bringing your whole self to work11:24 Becoming "Chief Reassurance Officer" during COVID13:53 The tried-and-true technique: model the behavior you want to see14:53 Vulnerability in action: why leading through emotion builds trust21:19 "Share something good": how small check-ins build connection over time21:47 Personal Growth Mondays & the 365-question ritual22:46 Timing, adopters, and focusing on who shows up24:40 Why shared vulnerability makes leaders more open and sensitive30:58 Building a leadership team empowered to call you out31:27 Avoiding the founder-CEO bottleneck32:47 Giving people "enough rope" and situational leadership33:56 The one thing Jimmy would solve to unlock business growth35:58 Final thoughts: take a true inventory of what really matters to youConnect With Host Carol SchultzFind more information about our host Carol Schultz and her company at Vertical Elevation, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.Want to be our next guest expert? Email cat.gloria@verticalelevation.com with your information.And of course, click "follow" to stay up-to-date on new episodes and leave an honest review/rating letting us know what you thought!
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  Getting Funded With Foundry Partner Seth Levine 20.08.2026 39m

  Summer break just won't quit, so here's another edition of Throwback Thursday with one of Carol's favorite Venture Capitalists and a hell of a good guy. If you’re curious about the process of venture capital (VC) funding or looking to get funding, this episode is for you. Host Carol Schultz sits down with Seth Levine of the prestigious VC firm Foundry. Whether you're an eager founder, a startup dreamer, or just VC-curious, Seth cuts through the noise, sharing hard-won insights on when to actually seek funding, why VC money might not be as glamorous as you think, how to successfully pitch investors, and what sets standout founders apart. Carol and Seth also dig into the toughest founder challenges, from when to bootstrap versus raise capital, to smart hiring as you grow. Packed with practical advice, stories from the trenches, and candid wisdom about navigating the funding world, this episode will help you avoid the common pitfalls and make smarter choices for your company’s future. Tune in for a straight-talking look inside the journey to funding a business. Connect With Host Carol SchultzFind more information about our host Carol Schultz and her company at Vertical Elevation, LinkedIn, and Instagram.Want to be our next guest expert? Email cat.gloria@verticalelevation.com with your information.And of course, click "follow" to stay up-to-date on new episodes and leave an honest review/rating letting us know what you thought!
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  Creating a Culture People Don’t Want to Leave 13.08.2026 39m

  It's vacation time for us, so here's another Throwback Thursday.For leaders seeking guidance on building a winning culture, this one is for you.In this conversation Carol Schultz speaks with Jason Andrews, multiple time founder, expert in space travel, and the current Cofounder & CEO of Orbite.Carol and Jason discuss the intricacies of building a company that retains talent and the challenges of entrepreneurship. They also explore the importance of company culture, effective marketing strategies, and the financial aspects of running a startup.Jason shares insights from his journey with Orbite, emphasizing the need for vision, adaptability, and the right team to succeed in a rapidly evolving industry.This is an episode you won't want to miss.TakeawaysCreating a company that people don't want to leave is essential for success.Building a strong team and company culture is crucial for retention.Every entrepreneur faces challenges, and adaptability is key.Funding strategies can vary; organic growth is often beneficial.The future of space travel is becoming more accessible to the public.Effective marketing and customer engagement are vital for growth.Understanding your ideal customer profile is essential for targeting.Vision and mission drive the company forward and inspire the team.Entrepreneurship requires a unique mindset and resilience.Learning from failures is part of the entrepreneurial journey.Chapters00:00 Creating a Company People Don't Want to Leave01:11 The Vision Behind Orbit and Human Spaceflight03:18 The Challenges of Building a New Industry06:21 Employee Retention in Startups10:14 Qualities of a Successful Entrepreneur12:47 Funding Strategies for Startups17:15 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs19:20 Understanding Space Training Costs22:08 The Adventure of Space Training24:58 Overcoming Perceptions of Space Travel28:07 Marketing Challenges in the Space Industry30:25 Building a Mission-Driven Team32:43 Navigating Growth and Resource Limitations35:47 The Journey of Entrepreneurship40:41 Navigating Space Experiences and Virtual OperationsConnect With Host Carol SchultzFind more information about our host Carol Schultz and her company at Vertical Elevation, LinkedIn, and Instagram.Find out more about our guest, Jason Andrews, and his company at Orbite Space, LinkedIn, and InstagramWant to be our next guest expert? Email cat.gloria@verticalelevation.com with your information.And of course, click "follow" to stay up-to-date on new episodes and leave an honest review/rating letting us know what you thought!
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  What is Founder’s Syndrome? 07.08.2026 25m

  We're on a much needed vacation as we typically are in August, so it's time for Throwback Thursday. Curious to learn more about Founder’s syndrome, or working for someone who may have it? This episode is for you. Host Carol Schultz teams up with social impact entrepreneur Sophia Shaw to dive deep into the tricky dynamics of founder syndrome. From understanding why founders struggle to let go, to practical strategies for succession planning and building a culture that supports new leadership, the conversation is packed with real-world stories and actionable advice for both founders and their teams. Whether you’re just starting your business or looking for ways to future-proof your organization, you won’t want to miss these insights on evolving—without losing what makes your company unique. Hit play and start evolving your workplace today. Connect With Host Carol SchultzFind more information about our host Carol Schultz and her company at Vertical Elevation, LinkedIn, and Instagram.Want to be our next guest expert? Email cat.gloria@verticalelevation.com with your information.And of course, click "follow" to stay up-to-date on new episodes and leave an honest review/rating letting us know what you thought!
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  Suicide in the workplace 23.07.2026 37m

  One in four employees is seriously mentally distressed — and it's rarely about the person; it's about the workplace itself!This conversation dives into why workplace mental health is quietly collapsing, the hidden cost of untrained managers, and the simple systems — from tracked airtime to two-minute check-ins — that can turn a toxic culture around.We discussed:◼ Why depression rates tripled during the pandemic and never came back down◼ How one Gallup number predicts 70% of your team's engagement◼ The two simple questions that instantly rebuild trust with your team◼ Why fixing individuals is solving for the completely wrong problem◼ How one CEO's 30,000 handwritten notes turned a failing company around🎙️ Host: Carol SchultzLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolbschultz/Vertical Elevation: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vertical-elevation/🎤 Guest: Laura PutnamLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauraputnam/Motion Infusion: https://www.linkedin.com/company/various-schools-and-organizations/🎧 Find usYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EvolvingYourWorkplaceSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/72jbAC9Hk4P0EH9wxW1vy4?si=b0eab40cecc343e3Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/evolving-your-workplace/id1562180951Connect With Host Carol SchultzFind more information about our host Carol Schultz and her company at Vertical Elevation, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.Want to be our next guest expert? Email cat.gloria@verticalelevation.com with your information.And of course, click "follow" to stay up-to-date on new episodes and leave an honest review/rating letting us know what you thought!
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  Scaling a Workplace with No Employees 16.07.2026 41m

  A company with no staff, no payroll, and no traditional org chart — just AI models, subscriptions, and 300 hand-picked consultants!How a business scales with zero employees: AI-powered prospecting, brutal consultant vetting, deliberately thin 33% margins, virtual CIOs delivering 400% ROI, and why vendors are keeping the AI savings their clients deserve.We discussed: ◼ Why a firm deliberately keeps just 33% margin while competitors keep 60% ◼ How interviewing 800 consultants during COVID built a 300-person network ◼ The single interview question that exposes technologists who can't think like executives ◼ Why fractional leadership commonly delivers 400% ROI in the mid-market ◼ The "AI dividend" your suppliers are banking as margin instead of passing to you🎙️ Host: Carol SchultzLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolbschultz/Vertical Elevation: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vertical-elevation/🎤 Guest: Jeff RobertsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertsjeff/Innovation Vista: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovationvista/🎧 Find us YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EvolvingYourWorkplace Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/72jbAC9Hk4P0EH9wxW1vy4?si=b0eab40cecc343e3Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/evolving-your-workplace/id1562180951Connect With Host Carol SchultzFind more information about our host Carol Schultz and her company at Vertical Elevation, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.Want to be our next guest expert? Email cat.gloria@verticalelevation.com with your information.And of course, click "follow" to stay up-to-date on new episodes and leave an honest review/rating letting us know what you thought!
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  How the Federal Government Impacts Our Workplaces in 2026 25.06.2026 31m

  "Businesses don't fail because of what they do. They fail because of everything else." – Michael SakataIn this week’s episode, Carol Schultz sits down with Michael Sakata, President & CEO of the Maryland Transportation Builders and Materials Association (MTBMA), to discuss how federal policy decisions are impacting small businesses, contractors, and transportation firms across the country. The conversation centers on recent changes to disadvantaged business enterprise (DBE) programs, the uncertainty created by shifting regulations, and what business owners can do when the rules suddenly change.Michael explains how the removal of race-based criteria from DBE certification has created new questions for businesses that have relied on these programs for decades. Rather than focusing on politics, the discussion explores the practical realities facing contractors, engineers, and small business owners as they navigate evolving requirements, funding concerns, and changing government priorities. Carol and Michael also dive into the role of relationships in business success, why networking matters more than ever, and how organizations can remain resilient during periods of uncertainty.The episode closes with lessons on leadership, communication, membership growth, and the importance of staying engaged with industry associations and policymakers. Michael shares how MTBMA has more than doubled its membership under his leadership and why consistent communication remains one of the most important drivers of retention and long-term success.TakeawaysFederal policy changes can create significant uncertainty for small businesses.Changes to DBE certification programs are forcing many companies to reassess their strategy.Business owners should focus on impact rather than politics when evaluating policy decisions.Strong relationships often matter more than formal programs or certifications.Companies that stay engaged with industry groups are better positioned to adapt to change.Infrastructure remains one of the few areas that continues to receive bipartisan support.Consistency and predictability are critical for business growth and planning.Communication is one of the strongest drivers of member, customer, and employee retention.Successful organizations create value through networking, advocacy, and education.Leaders must focus on what they can control rather than reacting to every external change.Trade associations can give businesses a stronger collective voice with policymakers.Growth often comes from listening closely to members, customers, and stakeholders.Chapters00:00 Intro: How federal decisions impact everyday businesses01:05 Michael Sakata's role and the mission of MTBMA02:19 Changes to disadvantaged business enterprise (DBE) programs03:40 What the new certification landscape means for small businesses05:10 Why uncertainty creates challenges for business owners06:22 Relationship-building vs. government-supported opportunities08:19 The original purpose of DBE programs and ongoing debates10:30 Advice for businesses navigating regulatory changes11:44 How disadvantaged business status has changed13:38 Political perspectives and the impact on transportation businesses15:04 Why businesses need consistency to thrive17:35 What business owners can do when policies change18:04 Infrastructure as a rare bipartisan issue19:45 Michael's career journey into transportation advocacy20:36 Legislative wins and improving transportation safety22:14 Why trade associations can influence policy effectively23:54 The secret behind a 96%+ membership retention rate26:38 Creating value for members through networking and advocacy30:28 Collaboration between transportation organizations across states32:21 Managing change instead of being controlled by it34:02 How MTBMA more than doubled its membership36:10 Final thoughts and closing remarksConnect With Host Carol SchultzFind more information about our host Carol Schultz and her company at Vertical Elevation, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.Want to be our next guest expert? Email cat.gloria@verticalelevation.com with your information.And of course, click "follow" to stay up-to-date on new episodes and leave an honest review/rating letting us know what you thought!
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  3 things to include in Your Ideal Office Environment 19.06.2026 42m

  In this week's episode, Carol Schultz sits down with Beth Goff- McMillan, CEO of SKG and founder/CEO of FOLIO, to dig into how office design has completely transformed since COVID—and why most companies are stuck in what Beth calls a "vortex of confusion" about what their workspace should even be.Beth shares 30 years of industry insight on the shift from rigid cubicle layouts to fully open offices to today's hybrid chaos, and explains why the real question leaders need to ask isn't "what furniture do we buy" but "why do we even need an office." They get into what makes employees actually want to come back in (hint: it's not ping pong tables), the most expensive and most overlooked design mistakes companies make, and how a simple employee survey can save a business tens of thousands of dollars. The episode wraps with a look at FOLIO, the tech platform Beth built to drag a notoriously slow-moving industry into the SaaS era.TakeawaysMost leaders are stuck on "what" to put in their office instead of asking "why" they need an office at all.Return-to-office policies alone don't drive engagement or productivity—you need clear KPIs tied to purpose.Employee surveys (before AND after a redesign) can prevent massively expensive, unused investments.Noise and acoustics should be the #1 design priority post-COVID—people need more visual/sound barriers, not fewer.Gimmicks like ping pong and shuffleboard tables rarely get used and often signal a lack of real design intent.Storage and file cabinets are some of the most expensive—and most unnecessary—line items in office design."Resi-mercial" design (home-like textures, plants, varied seating) makes employees feel more connected and productive.Large conference rooms often go underused—flexible lounge spaces can replace them entirely.Workplace design decisions involve far more stakeholders than people expect: C-suite, facilities, HR, IT, and legal.The furniture/design industry is still behind on technology—and AI-driven tools are starting to close that gap.Chapters00:00 Intro: How office spaces have transformed since COVID01:49 What SKG actually does (workplace strategy, design, furniture procurement)03:10 30 years of office evolution: from Dilbert cubicles to fully open floors05:33 The "vortex of confusion"—why nobody has a playbook anymore07:07 Shifting the conversation from "what" to "why"09:24 Three things every workspace needs to succeed post-COVID11:29 "I wanted to earn their commute"—how design changed employee behavior12:48 Why noise and acoustics should be priority #114:21 Dress codes, client expectations, and reading the room16:17 Two things to leave out of your office (gimmicks & excess storage)18:41 Bringing "resi-mercial" design into the workplace23:11 Who SKG actually meets with—from CEOs to facilities to legal25:19 The survey that saved a client from a costly coffee bar mistake28:21 Redesigning SKG's own HQ: what worked and what didn't33:04 The privacy/acoustics fail—and how they fixed it36:47 Why Beth joined SKG and what keeps her there 11 years later39:03 Folio: building the first SaaS tool for the furniture dealership industry43:11 Current bottlenecks: training talent in a fast-changing industry45:00 Final thoughtsConnect With Host Carol SchultzFind more information about our host Carol Schultz and her company at Vertical Elevation, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.Want to be our next guest expert? Email cat.gloria@verticalelevation.com with your information.And of course, click "follow" to stay up-to-date on new episodes and leave an honest review/rating letting us know what you thought!
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  Transforming the workplace through self-awareness and delegation 04.06.2026 31m

  “Lead yourself before you lead others.” – Jane MonroeIn this week’s episode, Carol Schultz sits down with Jane Monroe, founder of Embrace the Grape Beverage Catering, to explore one of the most overlooked leadership skills: self-awareness. What started as a conversation about leadership quickly became a masterclass on blind spots, delegation, personal growth, and building teams that can lead themselves.Jane shares the unexpected story of how a bride’s wedding problem led her to launch a completely new business during the 2008 financial crisis. From there, she introduces her framework for leadership cohesion, breaking down the four versions of ourselves—the known self, blind self, hidden self, and mystery self—and explains how understanding each one can transform the way we lead.Carol and Jane discuss why many leaders struggle with control, how delegation creates stronger organizations, and why hiring people who compensate for your weaknesses is a competitive advantage. They also dive into trust, employee empowerment, succession planning, and the importance of balancing logic with intuition to become a more whole-brained leader.The episode closes with practical lessons for leaders looking to build high-performing teams, uncover their blind spots, and create workplaces where accountability starts from within.Takeaways• Self-awareness is the foundation of effective leadership.• Blind spots can limit growth until someone helps uncover them.• Great leaders learn to lead themselves before leading others.• Growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone.• Delegation allows leaders to focus on their strengths.• Hiring for your weaknesses creates stronger teams.• Employees perform better when given ownership instead of micromanagement.• Different perspectives often produce better outcomes than one leader working alone.• Strong cultures are built on trust, communication, and accountability.• Encouraging employees to “manage up” creates healthier organizations.• Leadership exists at every level—not just in management positions.• Balancing emotional intelligence with logical thinking leads to better decisions.Chapters00:00 Intro: Why self-awareness separates great leaders from everyone else01:11 Meet Jane Monroe & the story behind Embrace the Grape02:19 The bride who accidentally created a business opportunity04:29 Turning blind spots into entrepreneurial breakthroughs07:01 The four selves: known, blind, hidden, and mystery09:37 Why growth requires getting comfortable being uncomfortable11:54 Leading yourself before leading others13:51 A powerful framework for humility and leadership15:58 Learning to let go: delegation and control17:03 Hiring for your weaknesses instead of your strengths18:13 Diversity of thought and avoiding groupthink19:15 How delegation unlocks team growth20:05 Empowering employees through trust and ownership21:41 Giving people opportunities to exceed expectations22:41 When employees redesign your plans for the better23:09 Managing up: why leaders need feedback too24:05 Building a culture of accountability with part-time teams25:38 Hiring experienced professionals and maintaining low turnover26:39 Supporting employees through major life transitions27:35 Succession planning when family doesn't want the business29:12 Whole-brain leadership: balancing emotion and logic31:38 Final thoughts & closing remarksConnect With Host Carol SchultzFind more information about our host Carol Schultz and her company at Vertical Elevation, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.Want to be our next guest expert? Email cat.gloria@verticalelevation.com with your information.And of course, click "follow" to stay up-to-date on new episodes and leave an honest review/rating letting us know what you thought!
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  Creating Ownership in your Employees 21.05.2026 33m

  "Don't ask what I would do. Ask what's best for the patient." – Amit Gir, MDIn this week's episode, Carol Schultz sits down with Amit Gir — physician, entrepreneur, and CEO of Phox Health — to dig into one of the most underrated leadership challenges: creating a culture where employees take real ownership, instead of waiting to be told what to do. Amit shares how he built a remote-first healthcare logistics company across 12 states and two continents, almost entirely by learning when to let go — and who to let run.Amit explains why the best leaders learn every inch of the business before delegating it, how to tell the difference between micro-feedback and micromanagement, and why he has a strict rule of never taking credit for a good idea. They also get into the messier side of leadership — what happens when someone doesn't show ownership, how fear-based cultures quietly kill companies, and why giving employees "the rope" is the only way to find out who will climb and who won't. The episode closes with Amit's core belief: when the mission is bigger than the manager, ownership stops being a personality trait and starts becoming company culture.TakeawaysLearn the business deeply before you hand it off — you can't manage what you don't understand.Hire people who can teach you something, not just execute your ideas.The best hires are the ones who eventually do the job better than you could.Passing ownership means giving a rough playbook — then getting out of the way.Never own a good idea. Only own the bad outcomes.Micro-feedback is about speed, not control — the faster the feedback, the faster the growth.Fear-based leadership creates silence, not performance.When the mission drives decisions — not the founder — ownership becomes instinct.A culture of feedback has to be modeled by the CEO first, every single day.Remote teams can scale — but only when built with intention, not just cost savings.Chapters00:01 Intro: The real cost of employees who wait for permission01:27 What Fox Health does and why it exists02:22 From medical school to startup — Amit's founder origin story05:20 What ownership actually looks like on Amit's team08:35 The Atlanta hire — no resume, no healthcare background, full ownership10:31 Giving employees the rope — risk, trust, and letting go11:13 Why you should hire people who can replace you12:24 The one instruction Amit gives every new hire13:02 When ownership doesn't show up — and how to act fast14:26 The credit rule: he never owns a good idea15:06 Micro-feedback vs. micromanagement — where the line is17:40 Leading by example when no one's watching18:12 How to build a culture of feedback from the top down19:21 Love vs. fear — which one actually builds better teams22:08 Running a global remote team across the US, India, and Scotland24:52 Gender dynamics in a global workforce25:10 Why Fox Health ended up 50%+ female — by accident28:46 Turning time zone gaps into a competitive advantage32:35 Final thoughts: hire with purpose, not just for priceConnect With Host Carol SchultzFind more information about our host Carol Schultz and her company at Vertical Elevation, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.Want to be our next guest expert? Email cat.gloria@verticalelevation.com with your information.And of course, click "follow" to stay up-to-date on new episodes and leave an honest review/rating letting us know what you thought!
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  The Necessity of Shedding and Rethinking Your Brand 14.05.2026 33m

  "If you don't plan for where your customers are moving, you're not going to have a business." – Melinda PowelsonIn this week's episode, Carol sits down with Melinda Powelson, CEO of Match Engine, to explore what brand survival really looks like when the industry you built your business on starts disappearing beneath your feet. From a Denver recycling company founded just after the first Earth Day to one of the earliest lead generation platforms on the internet, Match Engine's story is a masterclass in knowing when to pivot — and having the courage to actually do it.Melinda breaks down why so many businesses get left behind when industries shift, why watching trends and data is non-negotiable for long-term survival, and how her company is already preparing for the decline of paper shredding by moving into medical waste, electronic recycling, and AI-powered sales tools. Carol and Melinda also dig into the tension between embracing AI and protecting the human touch in customer relationships, why office paper shipments have dropped 36% since COVID, and what the Yellow Pages and Kodak teach us about ignoring the writing on the wall.The conversation also covers family business succession, founder syndrome, why 70–80% of family-run businesses fail between the first and second generation, the real difference between wanting something and committing to it, and why hiring people with a tolerance for change may be the single most important thing a leader can do right now.TakeawaysBusinesses that fail to track industry trends risk becoming the next Kodak or Yellow Pages.Office paper shipments in the U.S. have dropped 36% since COVID — document-heavy industries must adapt.Medical waste and electronic recycling are growth verticals as paper shredding declines.AI search is reshaping lead generation, and businesses that ignore it will fall behind.Using AI to enhance your team's performance is fundamentally different from using it to replace people.Customers in certain demographics still strongly prefer speaking to a human over a bot.Family business succession fails 70–80% of the time between the first and second generation.The baton handoff only works when the original founder is willing to fully let go.Commitment — not just wanting — is what separates entrepreneurs who make it from those who don't.Hiring for change tolerance is as important as hiring for skill.Women leaders may have a natural advantage in delegation and trust-based team building.A subscription revenue model offers stability that a pure lead-generation model cannot.Chapters00:00 Intro: Office paper is down 36% — is your business paying attention?01:09 Introducing Melinda Powelson and Match Engine01:58 How it all started: Tri Our Recycling and the first Earth Day02:34 Building a website in 1995 before Google existed03:38 The birth of Shred Nations and early lead generation04:09 Why the internet business was losing $20K a month — and how they fixed it04:46 The fundamentals of pivoting: platform economics and customer value06:19 Advice for leaders who know they're falling behind07:09 "Fish where the fish are" — and the fish have moved07:32 Why AI search is the next frontier for lead generation09:37 Defining risk: changing what works today for an uncertain tomorrow10:26 Match Engine's AI philosophy: enhance people, don't replace them11:31 Why boomers won't talk to bots — and why that matters12:28 Salesforce's AI hiring reversal as a cautionary tale13:12 The value of people and hiring for change tolerance13:57 How Melinda entered the family business (she was an English major)15:09 The gradual baton handoff from father to daughter16:16 Why family business succession fails 70–80% of the time17:16 The personal commitment that made the difference18:48 Eight years as CEO — and the three and a half that changed everything19:23 Why CEOs need peer groups — and how hard they are to find22:11 Founder syndrome and why women may be better at letting go24:24 Planning your own exit from day one26:19 Building a new team and saying hard goodbyes27:27 Vision first, then team, then adapt28:26 Industry shift: paper down, medical waste and e-recycling up30:04 The Yellow Pages and Kodak lesson30:56 Revenue targets and the move toward a subscription modelConnect With Host Carol SchultzFind more information about our host Carol Schultz and her company at Vertical Elevation, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.Want to be our next guest expert? Email cat.gloria@verticalelevation.com with your information.And of course, click "follow" to stay up-to-date on new episodes and leave an honest review/rating letting us know what you thought!
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  How to Be a Non Commodity in a Commodity Driven World 07.05.2026 34m

  “People don’t buy from logos—they buy from people.” – Rachel GogosIn this week’s episode, Carol Schultz sits down with Rachel Gogos, founder and director of strategy at brandiD, to unpack what it really takes to stand out in a world where nearly every business feels interchangeable. From AI-generated websites and generic branding to personal positioning and founder-led marketing, Rachel explains why businesses that feel human are winning trust while “commodity brands” are getting ignored.Rachel breaks down why so many companies fail to connect online despite spending money on websites, SEO, and content. She explains why founders themselves are often the biggest differentiator in a business, why audiences are becoming increasingly skeptical of AI-generated content, and how businesses can build stronger relationships by making customers feel seen instead of constantly talking about themselves. Carol and Rachel also discuss the growing importance of authenticity, messaging clarity, customer psychology, and why businesses must stop relying on shortcuts if they want long-term growth.The conversation also explores personal branding myths, why introverts can still build powerful brands, how LinkedIn differs from other platforms, and why consistency across websites, podcasts, social media, PR, and messaging is essential for modern businesses trying to survive in crowded markets.TakeawaysThe founder is often the strongest differentiator in a business.Customers increasingly want authentic, human brands.AI-generated branding can feel emotionally empty and mechanical.Businesses fail when they focus too much on themselves instead of customer pain points.Personal branding is not just for extroverts or influencers.Strong messaging starts with understanding the customer first.Websites alone don’t generate growth—marketing and positioning matter.Consistency across platforms builds stronger trust and authority.Many businesses abandon marketing strategies too early.SEO, copywriting, and brand positioning all work together as one ecosystem.Founder-led content performs especially well on platforms like LinkedIn.Differentiation comes from understanding what competitors are missing.Chapters00:00 Intro: Standing out in a commodity-driven world02:35 Why founders are the biggest differentiator03:37 Rachel Gogos on building brandiD and helping businesses grow online04:29 Why outdated websites and weak messaging hurt brands05:19 Budget mistakes businesses make early on06:29 The problem with AI-generated websites and branding07:50 Why authentic brands build stronger trust08:12 Why founders should become the face of the business10:38 Branding mistakes companies make too early11:07 Why customer-focused messaging matters11:28 The danger of constantly changing marketing strategies12:37 Why audiences are getting tired of AI-generated content13:39 Rachel’s entrepreneurial journey and starting brandiD15:36 Personal branding vs. business branding16:26 Why people buy from people17:45 Combining founder branding with company branding19:29 Building a full marketing ecosystem around a website21:58 Word-of-mouth, Google, and personal branding as growth channels23:25 Why many industries are becoming commoditized25:53 Carol’s SEO and AEO growth strategy experience28:02 Finding the right talent in SEO and marketing31:38 Separating your business from competitors32:40 How a cigar brand successfully differentiated itself35:15 Building brand trust through consistency and communityConnect With Host Carol SchultzFind more information about our host Carol Schultz and her company at Vertical Elevation, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.Want to be our next guest expert? Email cat.gloria@verticalelevation.com with your information.And of course, click "follow" to stay up-to-date on new episodes and leave an honest review/rating letting us know what you thought!
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  Three key tools to evolve your workplace 30.04.2026 30m

  “If you’re not growing, you’re dying.” – Brent W. RempeIn this week’s episode, Carol Schultz sits down with Brent Rempe (President & CEO of First Alliance Credit Union) to unpack what actually drives workplace evolution—and why most companies fail to make their values meaningful. Brent shares how his team redefined their mission, vision, and values after realizing the old ones didn’t resonate, and how simplifying them into something tangible changed the direction of the organization.Brent explains why having too many values makes them forgettable, how organizations can embed values into hiring and performance systems, and why alignment matters more than raw output. They explore how behavioral interviews reveal real character, why pairing HR with hiring managers improves decision-making, and how growth can expose weaknesses inside a team. The conversation also touches on leadership realities—like imposter syndrome—and why purpose and storytelling are critical to keeping employees engaged. The episode closes with a practical look at how companies can create workplaces where people feel connected to the impact of their work, not just the job itself.TakeawaysMission, vision, and values only work if they are simple and actionableToo many values make culture harder to understand and applyValues should be embedded into hiring, performance, and daily decisionsBehavioral interviews help uncover genuine alignment—not rehearsed answersHR involvement improves hiring consistency and reduces biasGrowth without alignment can create internal frictionEmployees stay engaged when they feel their work has real impactStorytelling helps teams connect to purpose and meaningEven experienced leaders deal with imposter syndromeStrong culture creates momentum, not just complianceChapters00:03 Intro: What it means to evolve a workplace04:13 Rethinking mission, vision, and values05:14 Why simplicity in values matters07:33 The three core tools: mission, vision, values08:17 Embedding values into hiring and performance09:10 How to interview for alignment10:28 The role of HR in better hiring decisions15:58 Defining the ideal member and growth focus18:05 Looking beyond credit scores: human-centered decisions20:26 Growth challenges and team development26:19 Imposter syndrome among leaders31:25 Purpose, storytelling, and employee motivationConnect With Host Carol SchultzFind more information about our host Carol Schultz and her company at Vertical Elevation, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.Want to be our next guest expert? Email cat.gloria@verticalelevation.com with your information.And of course, click "follow" to stay up-to-date on new episodes and leave an honest review/rating letting us know what you thought!
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  Splitting time between companies - is it possible to grow? 22.04.2026 36m

  “If you’re the linchpin… it gets really hard.” – Greg MooreIn this week’s episode, Carol Schultz sits down with Greg Moore (Founder & CEO of Fit3D and WAIR) to unpack the reality of running two companies at the same time—and whether it’s actually possible to grow both without becoming the bottleneck.Greg explains how his businesses operate under one umbrella but function as completely separate entities, each demanding different teams, strategies, and attention. He breaks down the core challenge founders face when splitting time: growth slows the moment you become the center of every decision (“linchpin”). The conversation explores why building systems, delegating responsibility, and structuring time intentionally are critical if you want both companies to scale.They also dive into the trade-offs most founders ignore—how dividing attention can limit growth, why one company could flourish faster with full focus, and why Greg admits he wouldn’t start two companies at once again unless they were properly capitalized. The episode closes with a practical look at how he manages both today through time blocking, communication systems, and separating strategy from execution roles.TakeawaysSplitting time between companies is possible—but not without trade-offsGrowth stalls when the founder becomes the operational bottleneckSystems and delegation are essential to avoid being the linchpinOne company can often grow faster with undivided focusRunning two businesses requires structured time blocks and communicationFounder-led roles (like sales) make splitting time even harderProper capitalization changes everything when managing multiple companiesWithout systems, you’re managing chaos—not scaling businessesChapters00:06:29 The core challenge: leading two companies under one umbrella00:06:57 Can you split time without teams competing for attention?00:07:17 Adapting leadership: companies adjust to limited founder time00:07:55 The reality: planning, communication, and constant coordination00:08:13 Why your time is always split—and never enough00:12:04 Founder lesson: why Greg wouldn’t start two companies again00:12:44 The linchpin problem—and how it limits growth00:13:05 When companies depend on each other financially00:13:21 The 3 conditions required to run multiple companies successfully00:21:54 Weekly workflow: balancing strategy vs execution across both companies00:24:07 Working “in” vs working “on” the businessConnect With Host Carol SchultzFind more information about our host Carol Schultz and her company at Vertical Elevation, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.Want to be our next guest expert? Email cat.gloria@verticalelevation.com with your information.And of course, click "follow" to stay up-to-date on new episodes and leave an honest review/rating letting us know what you thought!
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  Throwback Thursday: What Workplace Sexual Harassment Really Looks Like 16.04.2026 28m

  “If something feels wrong, trust your gut.” – Brittany StevensIn this week’s episode, Carol Schultz sits down with employment attorney Brittany Stevens (Partner at Phillips & Associates) to unpack the realities of sexual harassment, workplace discrimination, and power dynamics—and what leaders can do to create workplaces where people feel safe speaking up.Brittany explains how harassment is defined under the law (and why it often differs from what people assume), why so many cases come down to evidence and “totality of circumstances,” and how fear of retaliation keeps employees silent—especially when the harasser holds power. They discuss what strong workplace policies and training should actually include, why some organizations make it hard to report, and how employees can protect themselves when a company is focused on protecting itself. The episode closes with practical guidance for both leaders and employees on building safer systems, documenting issues, and knowing when to seek confidential legal advice.TakeawaysSexual harassment isn’t always “obvious”—many cases are subtle and pattern-based.Legal definitions of harassment/discrimination vary across federal, state, and city laws.Power imbalances (boss vs. employee) make reporting feel risky and unsafe.Fear of retaliation is one of the biggest reasons people stay silent.Documentation and internal complaints can significantly strengthen a case.Many companies fail by not having clear reporting policies or trusted processes.Leaders must train managers not only on behavior—but on how to respond to complaints.Discrimination can happen anywhere—industry, company size, and role don’t matter.Some terminations get “hidden” behind restructuring or reductions in force.Consulting a law firm can be a confidential way to understand your options.Chapters00:00 Intro: The taboo topic—sexual harassment & workplace safety00:49 What Brittany’s firm does (employee-side discrimination law)02:19 Why the firm was founded & what motivates this work02:50 Defining harassment vs. what people think harassment is04:28 Harassment isn’t always sexual: hostile work environments & protected classes05:15 Evidence, documentation, and why cases are fact-dependent06:16 Power dynamics: why “just say no” isn’t realistic07:43 What victims can do when they fear repercussions08:25 Why policies and reporting systems often fail (or don’t exist)10:40 Vetting employers: red flags, lawsuits, and research before accepting jobs11:13 DEI changes and what may shift over time12:01 Discrimination happens everywhere (yes—even “good” companies)13:00 What leaders should do: training, reporting, investigations, real support15:54 Women vs. men: patterns Brittany sees in harassment and discrimination cases16:46 Disability/medical termination & “restructuring” as a cover18:35 How Phillips & Associates evolved and expanded over time20:05 Growth bottlenecks: why jurisdiction/laws matter21:21 Why expand into less employee-friendly states like Florida22:58 Client trust: the importance of fast support and connection23:54 Internal training: listening, empathy, and handling emotional calls26:10 Choosing a path: quiet resolution vs. litigation27:03 How to find the firm & their contingency model29:24 Final thoughts: protecting yourself when the company protects itselfConnect With Host Carol SchultzFind more information about our host Carol Schultz and her company at Vertical Elevation, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.Want to be our next guest expert? Email cat.gloria@verticalelevation.com with your information.And of course, click "follow" to stay up-to-date on new episodes and leave an honest review/rating letting us know what you thought!