the Learn-It-All™ podcast

This episode is part of Mastering the Business of Storytelling, a Learn-It-All™ Mini-Series exploring how great leaders move people to action through story.Level up your storytelling—and your leadership—in this must-listen episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast. Host Damon Lembi welcomes Matthew Dicks, acclaimed storyteller, author, teacher, and nine-time Moth Grand Slam champion, to unpack the “why” and “how” behind memorable stories that win hearts, minds, and deals. From actionable strategies for business leaders to the surprising lessons bad storytellers offer, this episode busts myths about what makes a story “work.” Plus: the secrets to a killer opening, why vulnerability trumps data, and Matthew’s acclaimed “Homework for Life” tool to help you capture story-worthy moments in everyday life. If you want to boost your impact as a business leader, sales pro, or communicator, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom and real-world examples. In this episode, you’ll learn: The 3 essential elements every great story needs (and why they matter in business) Strategic ways to open a talk and instantly hook your audience How sharing failures and vulnerability make you memorable—and trustworthy The biggest mistakes boring storytellers make (and how to learn from them) Why personal connection outsells products, and how to “story sell” in every meeting How “Homework for Life” helps capture meaning from everyday moments Smart tips for creating suspense, surprise, and credibility in any setting Why leaders need to stop relying on bios—and start with stories Timestamps: 00:00 – The power of leveling up your storytelling skills quickly  02:06 – Matthew’s aha moment on why leaders need stories  03:24 – 3 main building blocks of memorable stories  06:38 – The value of competition, Moth victories, and peer recognition  09:00 – Learning from bad storytellers: watching, flipping, and avoiding mistakes  11:35 – Why your opening matters more than your ending  13:36 – How to instantly “trigger” story mode in your audience’s brain  17:26 – Why most storytellers start too soon (and how to find the right beginning)  19:24 – Getting technical people and scientists out of the “how” trap  22:04 – Why people buy humans, not products: Trevor Devine’s windows story  26:53 – How to demonstrate empathy and listen deeper than content matching  27:23 – Matthew’s 100% close rate as a wedding DJ (and the storytelling secret)  33:25 – Vulnerability in sales: sharing your mistakes builds trust  35:32 – Domino’s Pizza turnaround—a masterclass in crisis storytelling  40:17 – The “pickle story”: specificity and context in storytelling  44:30 – Creating surprise and suspense in everyday presentations  46:59 – Tips for using information exclusion to hook audiences (the suspense formula)  50:31 – Storyworthy’s “Homework for Life”: capturing stories from your everyday  56:23 – The single biggest lesson Matthew learned from decades as a teacher About Matthew Dicks  Matthew Dicks is an award-winning storyteller, novelist, elementary school teacher, and renowned coach to leaders across Fortune 500 companies. He’s the bestselling author of Storyworthy and Story Sell and has won the Moth Grand Slam nine times, making him a legend in the world of competitive storytelling. Matthew teaches storytelling workshops and gives keynotes for clients including Google, Microsoft, and Slack, helping people turn ordinary moments into extraordinary connections and results. Learn more at MatthewDicks.com and connect on LinkedIn. Resources Referenced: Matthew Dicks on LinkedIn Storyworthy (Matthew’s book on personal storytelling) Story Sell (Matthew’s book on business storytelling) Homework for Life App TEDx Talk: Homework for Life MatthewDicks.com “Jolt Effect” by Matt Dixon (book link) Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Get ready for a powerful, laughter-filled deep dive into workplace happiness and mental health. In this episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, host Damon Lembi sits down with keynote speaker, sales expert, and Work Happy founder Greg Kettner, who shares how his experiences as a comedian (including a transformative encounter with Robin Williams) shaped his mission to make mental health an everyday leadership conversation. They unpack why burnout and loneliness quietly hurt even at the top, how humor unlocks trust and retention, and why leaders must prioritize empathy without losing their edge. Greg shows that creating a workplace where people really want to show up isn’t just about perks or pay—it’s about connection, authenticity, and small acts of kindness. You’ll walk away with actionable tools to spark more joy at work, lead with vulnerability, and help your team not just chase happiness, but create it. Whether you’re a CEO, manager, or individual contributor, this episode offers hard-hitting advice and inspiring stories for anyone ready to build more engaging, human-first organizations. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why empathy and vulnerability are leadership superpowers in today’s culture How humor—with or without a joke-telling skill—creates trust and retention The difference between chasing happiness vs. making space for “happier” Concrete ways leaders can destigmatize mental health and foster psychological safety Surprising ROI of prioritizing employee wellbeing (including retention and performance!) The quickest way to turn around a bad day—and why serving others works The untold dangers of loneliness for CEOs and founders—and how to build your support system How to use time-blocking and positive rituals for daily mental health boosts Why small moments of kindness change teams—and change lives Timestamps: 00:00 – The CEO’s role in creating a fun, engaging culture 00:23 – Meet Gregg Kettner: comedian turned workplace happiness expert 01:32 – Robin Williams’ advice—make people laugh, it's magical 02:09 – Greg’s transformative story with Robin Williams 07:52 – What would work look like if we were happier? 10:20 – When the grass isn’t greener: reflecting before leaving a job 12:28 – Why the goal is “happier,” not happiness—and how to get there 13:53 – “Put your mask on first”: Why leaders need their own support 16:50 – Serving others: the fastest way to boost your own mood 18:05 – How to create psychological safety for mental health at work 22:07 – Empathy, boundaries, and HR: how leaders walk the line 25:42 – Greg’s top happiness-building tools (and why to stop chasing “happy”) 27:52 – Meditation for leaders: starting small, practicing daily 29:52 – Time-blocking—and how to engineer “happy breaks” at work 31:18 – Stress is rising: how leaders can help teams cope 32:57 – Workshops, keynotes, and fun training for happier culture 35:58 – Ask your staff—what perks actually help make work joyful? 40:55 – Greg’s most rewarding mental health impact story 44:14 – Comedy and compassion: making a difference in tough moments 45:41 – Kindness, connection, and what leaders must do now 47:17 – 40,000+ strong: The Humor Lab community About Greg Kettner Greg Kettner is an acclaimed keynote speaker, workplace happiness advocate, podcast host, and the founder of Work Happy, an organization dedicated to helping leaders build mentally healthy and engaging workplaces. Leveraging his career as a professional comedian (opening for the likes of Robin Williams and Norm Macdonald), Greg now blends humor, stories, and research-backed tools to tackle loneliness, burnout, and disengagement—especially among leaders and their teams. His mission: making mental health a non-negotiable part of every workplace conversation.  Resources & Mentions: Greg Kettner’s website (Work Happy) Greg on LinkedIn The Humor Lab Facebook Group SmartLess Podcast Headspace meditation app Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Whether in the military or business, the strongest teams are built on continuous learning, open communication, and a shared sense of purpose. In this action-packed episode, Damon sits down with Clarence Dingman, President of Defense Markets at PingWind, to uncover the leadership principles that drive high-performing organizations. Drawing from his Special Forces career and experience leading a dual-culture company through rapid growth and a major merger, Clarence provides a playbook for leaders at every level—whether you’re stepping up to a big new role or uniting teams after an acquisition. His stories highlight the power of active listening, building trust, and leaning into discomfort as a growth opportunity. If you want tactical strategies on culture, onboarding, and empowering your teams—even in tough times—this episode delivers. From military lessons to boardroom breakthroughs, get ready to learn what the best leaders keep doing—even after they reach the top. In this episode, you’ll learn: The importance of anchoring company culture around lifelong learning (and how Clarence uses Michelangelo’s “And yet, I am still learning” to drive growth) How to transition from being a doer to a resource-driven leader—and why empowerment beats micromanagement Clarence’s firsthand playbook for merging two companies and uniting different cultures after a major acquisition Why empathy and active listening are crucial for problem-solving and retention at scale What to do when top performers clash with company values—and the hidden costs of tolerating toxic talent Actionable tips on onboarding, employee engagement, and making feedback a two-way street—even as your team grows into the hundreds  Timestamps: 00:00 – Why environment matters more than the perfect job offer 01:36 – The business case for “always learning” as a cultural value 05:12 – Clarence’s military journey: from infantry to Special Forces 08:36 – Accelerated learning: transferring military lessons to business 11:00 – How empathy and active listening create win-win outcomes 12:18 – Taking the leap: stepping into a challenging new leadership role 14:56 – Advice for stepping outside your comfort zone 16:49 – Navigating a merger: uniting two established cultures 17:46 – Clarence’s approach to building trust and communication post-acquisition 19:41 – Biggest pain points in scaling: change management and uncertainty 21:09 – Learning to let go: moving from doer to resource agent 24:03 – How to become a hero-maker (not just a hero) as a leader 25:05 – Penguin’s employee-centric culture and retention strategies 27:29 – Building core values with bottom-up input (not just top-down) 30:54 – What to do when you need culture buy-in—or a culture do-over 34:13 – How to handle high-performing but toxic team members 37:51 – Penguin’s people-first onboarding process 41:58 – Breaking down leadership barriers to get authentic feedback 43:54 – Clarence’s leadership philosophy and final advice for listeners  About Clarence Dingman Clarence Dingman is President of Defense Markets for PingWind, a leading DC-based provider of IT and mission support services to federal and defense agencies. Clarence’s career began as an Army infantry officer before he moved into Special Forces, serving 11 years and bringing direct expertise in leadership, unconventional missions, and culture-building under pressure. After partnering with PingWind’s founder and fellow veteran, Aaron Moak, Clarence now leads organizational growth, cultural integration post-merger, and large-scale talent development. He is passionate about creating learning organizations founded on empathy, openness, and mission-focused results.  Resources & Mentions: PingWindWebsite: https://www.pingwind.com/about Clarence on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarence-dingman-48028730/ Book: How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie Michelangelo’s quote “And yet, I am still learning” (featured as a core value) PingWind’s LinkedIn page  Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Tap into hidden wisdom and unlock breakthrough learning—no matter your title. In this dynamic episode, Damon Lembi sits down with Jeff Wetzler, co-founder of Transcend, former Chief Learning Officer at Teach for America, and author of Ask: Tap Into The Hidden Wisdom of People Around You For Unexpected Breakthroughs in Leadership and Life. Jeff unpacks why even the smartest leaders miss crucial insights, how defensiveness blocks learning, and why the answers to your toughest problems are closer than you think. With stories from his own career, actionable tools, and research-backed advice, Jeff shares his Five Step ASK Approach—an adaptable playbook for building trust, surfacing blind spots, sparking genuine dialogue, and designing action plans that actually work. From elite leadership traps to the art of high-quality questions, this episode is overflowing with practical wisdom for anyone who wants to lead, listen, and learn at the next level. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why top leaders often fail at learning—and how to avoid the “know-it-all” trap The biggest barriers that keep people from honestly sharing what leaders need to hear Jeff’s real-world examples (including his own missteps) and how the ASK Approach could have changed outcomes The Five Steps of the ASK Approach, including: choosing curiosity, making it safe, posing quality questions, listening to learn, and reflecting/reconnecting What quality questions sound like—and how they unlock hidden ideas and energy in your team Actionable prompts and strategies to cultivate trust, safety, and psychological resilience—so people tell you the real story How closing the feedback loop cements learning and strengthens your culture Timestamps: 00:00 – Why high achievers can struggle more with deep learning 03:15 – The Know-It-All vs. Learn-It-All leader mindset 04:52 – Jeff’s personal story: missing key signals as a leader 07:32 – Core barriers that prevent honest feedback (fear, time pressure, lack of psychological safety) 10:12 – Recent missteps & lessons as a leader 14:03 – How to signal that you value people’s input 16:28 – The power of the “What’s your reaction?” question 19:31 – Why great insights rarely come unprompted—leaders must ask 20:16 – The ASK Approach: Five steps for breakthrough conversations 22:31 – Step 1: Choose curiosity—why it’s the gatekeeper to learning 24:31 – Practical ways to reclaim your curiosity as an adult 28:27 – Using AI to challenge your own assumptions 29:29 – Step 2: Make it safe—how leaders build psychological safety 33:12 – Steps investors and CEOs can take to cultivate candor 34:36 – Radiating resilience: Showing you can “handle the truth” 36:38 – Step 3: Pose quality questions (with examples to use) 39:18 – The trap of “Does that make sense?”—better alternatives 41:38 – Asking for headlines, digging deeper, and hearing real stories 42:45 – Step 4: Listen to learn (not just to respond) 45:12 – Pulling the thread: How therapists and leaders get to the real issue 45:57 – Paraphrase and test: The magic strategy for clarity and trust 47:01 – Step 5: Reflect and reconnect—why closing the loop matters 49:04 – The impact of follow-up and closing feedback surprises 50:07 – Where to connect with Jeff and get free resources 50:31 – Damon’s challenge: Go into every conversation ready to learn  About Jeff Wetzler Jeff Wetzler is a seasoned organizational learning expert, co-founder of Transcend, and author of Ask. With over 25 years of experience, including as Chief Learning Officer at Teach For America, Jeff has helped leaders and teams unlock blind spots, build trust, and discover hidden insights that drive performance and breakthrough change. His work blends academic research, real-world consulting, and lived leadership lessons. Learn more on Jeff’s website and connect with him on LinkedIn. Resources & Mentions: Jeff’s website: askapproach.com Jeff’s book: Ask: Tap Into The Hidden Wisdom of People Around You Jeff on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jeffwetzler Craig Dowden (mentioned): LinkedIn Tools referenced: Ladder of Understanding, AI tools: ChatGPT, Claude, question storming methods by Hal Gregersen & Marilee Adams  Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

In this dynamic episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, Damon Lembi sits down with Juliana Sommer, founder and CEO of Priority Architectural Graphics, to talk about how bootstrapping, self-awareness, and vulnerability fuel long-term leadership success. Juliana shares her journey from making small electrical labels to building one of California’s leading architectural signage companies—all without changing jobs for three decades, right in the heart of San Francisco’s ever-evolving business culture. The conversation explores assertive leadership, overcoming imposter syndrome, using behavioral assessments for team effectiveness, lessons learned from recessions, and adapting to the rise of AI in traditional industries. Whether you’re a founder, a new manager, or craving more meaning in your career, this episode is filled with wisdom, actionable frameworks, and candid stories about what it really takes to lead well through thick and thin. In this episode, you’ll learn: What “assertive leadership” really means—and why most people drift toward aggression or passivity How vulnerability can be a superpower for leaders (and the difference it made in Juliana’s early years) The power and pitfalls of “shape-shifting” in leadership—and how to avoid burning out your team How behavioral assessments like DISC, Predictive Index, and Myers-Briggs boosted team self-awareness and performance Practical strategies for surviving downturns—from COVID and the dot-com crash to the Great Recession Why gratitude and self-reflection are essential antidotes to the “comparison trap” and imposter syndrome How being AI-ready can make a traditional business future-proof (and what that looks like in signage and construction) Timestamps: 00:00 – Three tracks of leadership: aggressive, passive, assertive 02:15 – 30 years bootstrapped: starting in 1995 and staying in one company 04:46 – Juliana’s family roots in construction and how Priority Architectural Graphics was born 08:25 – First experiences with Learnit and how upskilling changed Juliana’s trajectory 09:41 – Landing the first big state contract and overcoming imposter syndrome 12:42 – Leaning on family for support, vulnerability, and grounding 15:11 – Assertiveness as the “magic middle” of leadership (and how boundaries matter) 17:34 – Why passive leadership fails and how assertiveness sets direction 19:43 – Juliana’s evolution as a leader: moving from passive to assertive, and learning through experience 21:31 – Fast-tracking self-awareness: behavioral assessments for team and leadership 25:26 – The exhausting trap of “shape-shifting,” strengths, and the DISC framework 29:02 – Surviving downturns: lessons from COVID, dot-com, and the Great Recession 31:16 – Merging companies and finding opportunity in crisis 34:11 – Leading through stress: balancing internal panic and outward stability 37:04 – The critical role of trusted mentors and vulnerability in hard times 37:56 – Staying motivated: love for the work, team, and entrepreneurship after three decades 39:30 – Advice for finding work you love—patience, team dynamics, and impact 42:22 – “Don’t just point out the hole”: A framework for bringing problems and solutions to your boss 45:13 – How ambitious employees stand out: ownership, suggestions, and filling the gap 46:01 – The “what if” of Bay Area careers and lessons from staying the course 48:26 – Overcoming the comparison trap: gratitude as the anchor 50:15 – Preparing for AI: staying open, adapting, and bridging the digital divide 51:55 – What AI will change in project delivery, transparency, and client service 54:37 – Legacy: advancing women in AEC and evolving industry culture for the next generation About Juliana Sommer Juliana Sommer is the founder and CEO of Priority Architectural Graphics, a top architectural signage firm based in San Francisco. Raised in a family of entrepreneurs, Juliana bootstrapped her company—from engraving labels in a tiny room to leading large-scale projects at local landmarks like SFO Airport and multifamily housing developments. For 30 years, she’s steered her business through turbulent markets, tech disruptions, and industry transformation, all while advocating for greater inclusion of women in architecture, engineering, and construction.   Resources & Mentions: Priority Architectural Graphics: prioritygraphics.com Juliana Sommer’s LinkedIn: Juliana Choi Sommer DISC Assessment Predictive Index Myers-Briggs Type Indicator Learnit Pat Lencioni’s Working Genius (recommended leadership tool) Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

From million-dollar mistakes to leading one of America’s largest law firms, this episode with Tim Lupinacci is a masterclass in practical leadership, influence, and everyday impact. Damon sits down with Tim to explore the core ideas from Tim’s widely praised book, Everybody Leads, and to unpack what real-world leadership looks like for professionals at every level—not just those with fancy titles or corner offices. Tim’s candid stories (including being called an “idiot” by a mentor), hard-won lessons, and actionable tools lay out a blueprint for how anyone can own their career, build their influence, and create resilient, thriving teams. With honesty and vulnerability, Tim details his journey from “stumbling into law school” to becoming CEO and Chairman of Baker Donaldson. Along the way, the conversation dives into imposter syndrome, self-mastery, consistency, the power of curiosity, and why influence beats formal authority every time. From cascading vision across thousands to practical daily habits, you’ll leave this episode fired up to lead with more intention—wherever you are. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Tim’s early career mistake became the spark for a lifetime of leadership growth Powerful ways to redefine leadership as influence and everyday impact—not just hierarchy Why vulnerability and curiosity are Tim’s go-to habits for self-leadership (and how he builds these muscles) Simple, repeatable tips for daily self-mastery and growth—even with a packed schedule The four traits that decades of research show the best leaders have in common How to cascade organizational purpose and vision from the top down (and bottom up) What “leadership aroma” means—and why every interaction counts Tim’s view on using storytelling, gratitude, and encouragement to build culture and drive team buy-in Real strategies for handling imposter syndrome, setbacks, and owning your impact at work Timestamps: 00:00 – Tim’s definition of leadership: influence and impact 00:51 – Tim’s million-dollar mistake and Bob’s tough mentorship 04:46 – How Tim handles mistakes as CEO (and builds resilience) 06:48 – Tim’s journey to CEO: building teams and pouring into others 09:06 – Imposter syndrome and the “soundtracks” in your head 13:00 – Leadership transparency, feedback, and culture 17:35 – What does it mean to be a leader? (Everyday influence) 21:09 – The role of curiosity in personal leadership 23:43 – Quick tips to build daily curiosity 26:35 – Tim’s daily disciplines for self-mastery 29:24 – Four most-admired leadership traits—what research says works 31:44 – How to find your North Star values as a leader 33:57 – AI, vision, and strategic planning for the future 38:12 – Cascading vision and purpose across a huge organization 41:14 – Leadership aroma: why every interaction matters 43:31 – Modeling behavior—why leaders are “always on stage” 44:59 – A few words can change careers: examples of encouragement 47:44 – Giving life vs. taking it: our responsibility as leaders 49:29 – Churchill’s dinner table diplomacy (and building authentic connections) 51:40 – What Tim learned as a podcast host (curiosity in action) 53:09 – One more tip for team leadership: don’t take yourself too seriously (have fun!) 54:52 – Tim’s legacy: practical encouragement for everyday leaders 56:12 – Where to connect with Tim and Everybody Leads nonprofit  About Tim Lupinacci Tim Lupinacci is Chairman and CEO of Baker Donaldson, one of the top 100 largest law firms in the United States. A lifelong “leadership junkie,” Tim’s journey spans decades of resilience and impact—from early career setbacks to steering a 1400-person organization. Tim is the author of Everybody Leads, a book dedicated to empowering professionals at every level to embrace influence, purpose, and fulfillment. He also founded the nonprofit Everybody Leads to share practical, positive leadership tools. Tim is passionate about making leadership accessible—and showing that anyone can own their impact at work, at home, and in the community. Resources & Mentions: Website: Everybody Leads Website: Baker Donaldson LinkedIn: Tim Lupinacci Tim’s book: Everybody Leads (Amazon) Tim’s nonprofit: Everybody Leads Tim’s podcast: Everybody Leads Podcast John Maxwell, 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership Leadership Challenge, Kouzes & Posner Ryan Holiday, The Daily Stoic Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Mission-driven leadership is more than a tactic—it's a calling. In this episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, Damon sits down with Jason Menzo, CEO of Foundation Fighting Blindness, for a candid conversation about building high-performing teams, driving medical breakthroughs, and leading with authenticity. Jason reveals what it takes to pivot from the private sector to the nonprofit world and shares the moonshot mission guiding his organization: delivering treatments and cures for blinding diseases. With nearly $1 billion raised and groundbreaking advances in gene therapy, Jason’s story is packed with lessons for anyone driven by purpose and impact. From finding the right people for your team to navigating massive goals and building a culture of trust, this episode offers actionable takeaways for leaders in every field—plus hope for the millions affected by inherited retinal diseases. Whether you want to up-level your hiring, create more belonging, or just hear an inspiring story of resilience, you’ll leave with new tools and renewed motivation. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Jason transitioned from corporate leadership to running a world-changing nonprofit The power of authenticity—and why letting people show up as themselves boosts happiness and performance Strategies for onboarding, interviewing, and building high-caliber, collaborative teams What to do when your team members aren’t the right fit (and how empathy and responsibility intersect) How Foundation Fighting Blindness funds research, drives innovation, and fosters community—for patients and families nationwide The role of AI, venture funding, and creative talent deployment in accelerating medical breakthroughs How to balance moonshot ambitions with everyday wins—keeping hope alive while driving real results  Timestamps: 00:00 – Jason on raising the bar at Foundation Fighting Blindness 00:30 – The mission and moonshot goals: delivering cures for blinding diseases 02:49 – Why authentic workplaces outperform others 04:00 – Linking happiness, authenticity, and productivity 05:30 – Jason’s journey: from Michigan furniture salesman to CEO 07:58 – Why vision research became Jason’s passion 10:04 – Key differences between private sector and nonprofit leadership 12:45 – Jason’s first 90 days: listening tour and change management 14:51 – How to push back and set boundaries with boards/shareholders 17:14 – Building high-caliber, collaborative teams (and fighting organizational silos) 20:46 – The interview process: transparency and culture fit 23:54 – When a hire misses the mark: motivational vs. cultural fit 26:36 – Moving people into the “right seats” on the bus 27:59 – Creativity in talent deployment: a real-life turnaround story 31:37 – Balancing empathy with organizational responsibility 34:03 – Dealing with the stress of mission-driven leadership 36:41 – Breaking moonshot goals into actionable, realistic milestones 39:02 – Foundation Fighting Blindness: key initiatives and impact 41:38 – The RD Fund and the baton metaphor for drug development 44:23 – Recent wins: transformative gene therapy breakthroughs 48:25 – Navigating the challenge of gene-specific treatments 50:40 – The accelerating role of AI in blindness research 52:42 – How Jason inspires his team (and leadership secrets from his CHRO) 56:04 – How you can get involved with Foundation Fighting Blindness About Jason Menzo Jason Menzo is CEO of Foundation Fighting Blindness, the world’s leading organization driving treatments and cures for blinding diseases. With over 20 years in vision research and leadership roles at both major corporations and startups, Jason combines deep expertise in eye care, patient advocacy, and nonprofit management. Under his leadership, the foundation has nearly $1 billion invested, a global impact on blindness research, and groundbreaking programs supporting both scientists and affected individuals. The mission: deliver real treatments and cures, while building a high-performing, authentic team. Resources & Mentions: The Orange Frog (book) StrengthsFinder (book/assessment) Foundation Fighting Blindness RD Fund National Institutes of Health – National Eye Institute Jason Menzo on LinkedIn Foundation Fighting Blindness Events  Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Can better meetings fuel massive transformation in your work culture—and even give you back hours every week? In this energizing episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, Damon Lembi sits down with Mamie Kanfer Stewart, host of The Modern Manager podcast, author, and leadership coach, to answer that question (spoiler: yes!). The conversation tackles the untapped ROI of running effective meetings, why managers—not just executives—are the heartbeat of organizations, and how the right systems unlock professional development time for everyone. Mamie shares practical tools, from crafting Personal Operating Manuals to leveraging AI for better note-taking and recaps, and offers her best techniques for improving feedback, building trust, and making meetings matter. Whether you’re drowning in unproductive calls or leading hybrid teams, this episode is brimming with real-world strategies to free up your calendar, engage your team, and drive better results. In this episode, you’ll learn: What really makes managers the “unsung heroes” of organizational success The crucial difference between managing and leading—and why you likely do both How to use a Personal Operating Manual to connect with diverse team members 3 ways to make feedback safer, more useful, and more routine The single biggest mistake to avoid in meetings (and how to fix it fast) Actionable steps to leverage AI and tech tools for meetings—without losing the human touch The ROI case for investing in better meetings (including how to talk to your CFO!) Timestamps: 00:00 – Why the fastest way to buy back time is fixing your meetings 01:40 – Why managers are the lifeblood of organizations 02:43 – Can you be both a manager and a leader? 04:10 – The biggest challenges facing modern managers (AI, diversity, hybrid work) 06:35 – Using Personal Operating Manuals for team alignment 10:21 – The art and science of receiving feedback 13:40 – 3 practical ways to invite upward feedback as a manager 17:11 – How meetings drive engagement (or crush it) 18:21 – When to have a meeting vs. just send an update 19:56 – Pre-work: the tool that transforms meeting ROI 22:03 – Nailing clear outcomes and knowing when a meeting is successful 23:42 – Avoiding the classic meeting mistake: missing the decision maker 27:31 – How to calculate the actual dollar cost of bad meetings 29:57 – Are virtual brainstorms as valuable as in-person? 32:14 – AI notetakers: hype vs. reality in meetings 35:31 – What “AI-ready” means for the modern manager 40:17 – Staying future-ready: How to keep learning when you’re super busy 41:15 – The ripple effect of better meetings on team culture and personal growth 43:44 – How hybrid and tech have changed “good meetings” since 2017 46:26 – Lessons from parenting you can use to manage teams better 48:33 – Where to connect with Mamie Kanfer Stewart  About Mamie Kanfer Stewart Mamie Kanfer Stewart is passionate about helping people thrive at work. She is the host of The Modern Manager podcast, author of Momentum: Creating Effective, Engaging and Enjoyable Meetings and Founder of Meeteor, a training firm focused on productive meetings. In addition, Mamie is an executive coach and trainer who works with entrepreneurs and managers to build the mindset, skills and habits they need to successfully manage themselves and their teams so everyone can be their best selves and do their best work.  Resources & Mentions: The Modern Manager Podcast Mamie’s book: Momentum: Creating Effective, Engaging and Enjoyable Meetings Meteor – Mamie’s meeting resources Miro and Mural (for virtual brainstorming) Myers-Briggs Type Indicator Mamie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mamieks/  Mamie on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheModernManager  Mamie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mamiekanferstewart/ The Modern Manager Website: https://www.themodernmanager.com  Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Vision, decisions, and leadership clarity—the ingredients for a team that executes, trusts, and innovates. In this episode, Damon invites Ross Romano—leadership coach, communications expert, and co-founder of the Be Podcast Network—into the Learn-It-All hot seat for an honest conversation on leading with values, making tough calls, and helping teams get unstuck. Ross shares stories from his coaching work with startup founders, corporate leaders, and education professionals, revealing why organizations falter (hint: it’s not always about execution) and how matchmaking between vision and action creates lasting results. Together, Damon and Ross break down value propositions, “third options” beyond binary thinking, and the three key traits every leader needs to build trust and loyalty. From defining clarity in chaotic industries to the unique burnout and motivation challenges facing education leaders, this episode is packed with actionable tools, candid advice, and inspiring stories for anyone facing a high-stakes leadership pivot. In this episode, you’ll learn:Why moving from “vision” to “decision” trips up even seasoned leaders—and how to fix it The three “cons” of trustworthy leadership (conscientiousness, constancy, consistency) A simple method for finding and refining your organization’s value proposition How to escape the “should I stay or should I go” trap with creative career pivots Why not losing passion, but feeling unable to make a difference, drives education pros out—and how leaders can change that Ross’s playbook for empowering teams as organizations scale How the Be Podcast Network builds impact and connection in education and leadership communities Timestamps: 00:00 – Why you always reserve the right to change your mind as a leader 01:28 – The challenge of translating vision into decisions 03:43 – Why most leadership mistakes start with a fuzzy vision 05:50 – Step one: clarifying audience pain points and values 08:53 – Finding real differentiators in a crowded market 11:36 – How often organizations should reassess their value prop 14:22 – Ross’s journey into education and impact 18:12 – Corporate vs. education leadership coaching: core challenges 21:28 – A “third option” career coaching success story 27:52 – The three traits of leaders people want to follow 31:08 – Where leaders struggle most (and Ross’s surprising answer) 33:36 – Founders, delegation, and letting go of control 37:34 – Why education leaders leave—leadership and burnout 42:15 – Ross’s magic wand: public opinion and resources in education 47:27 – Community in schools—and what we all can do better 48:01 – Building and growing the Be Podcast Network 55:08 – Ross’s proudest impact for startups and storytelling 59:09 – Key takeaway: What if it works? 01:00:20 – Where to connect with Ross Romano 01:01:21 – Final thoughts: Advocating for yourself as a leader About Ross Romano Ross Romano is a leadership coach, communications strategist, and co-founder of the Be Podcast Network, a powerhouse of 50+ shows serving education and leadership audiences. With deep experience coaching mid-career professionals, startup founders, and enterprise leaders, Ross specializes in helping teams and organizations get unstuck by aligning values, vision, and team dynamics. He’s passionate about impact in education, coaching corporate pivoters, and building communities for changemakers.  Resources & Mentions: Ross Romano’s LinkedIn Ross’s Show: The Authority  Ross’ Show: Sideline Sessions. Book: Decisive by Chip & Dan Heath Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

The future of work is changing fast—and managers are at the heart of that transformation. In this energizing episode, host Damon Lembi sits down with Elena Agaragimova, co-founder and CEO of ShiftWell, to break down what it takes to thrive as a manager in today’s workplace. From advocating for yourself to building a true learning culture, Elena shares candid advice, powerful frameworks, and practical strategies for creating teams that innovate, continuously grow, and stay ahead of the curve. They explore how organizations can set middle managers up for success, why curiosity and critical thinking are foundational in the AI era, and how to foster a holistic approach to learning and wellbeing—making every member of your team more engaged and resilient. Plus, Elena unveils ShiftWell, her pioneering tech platform, and discusses why future-proofing your company means investing in learning at every level. Packed with fresh insights, actionable tips, and big-picture perspective, this episode is essential listening for anyone passionate about redefining leadership in a rapidly evolving world. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why middle managers are so often “dropped” into leadership without the right support—and what to do about it The critical skills needed for managers in the age of AI (hint: curiosity and problem-solving top the list) How to build—and prove—the value of a true learning organization (it's more than just LMS and training) Elena’s holistic approach to performance: integrating wellbeing, social connection, and continuous feedback How ShiftWell uses tech (and an AI coach named Clara) to personalize learning and help managers close the gap between potential and performance What questions senior leaders should be asking before promoting someone to management Practical, ROI-driven strategies for advocating for your own growth—and why taking ownership of your career is non-negotiable Timestamps: 00:00 – Advocate for yourself: what new managers need most 01:23 – Why learning culture is key to company survival 02:27 – Middle manager realities: no time to learn, what to do 04:46 – Dropping high performers into management: risks and solutions 06:46 – Is the company really responsible for your development? 07:49 – How to screen future leaders: skills and questions 10:38 – Elena’s journey: higher ed to corporate learning 13:11 – Turning learning into business results: the “future team” concept 16:46 – What makes a learning organization (beyond tools and LMS) 20:09 – Creating space for learning: practical systems 22:36 – Quick wins for learning on a shoestring budget 24:06 – Must-have AI skills for managers 27:03 – AI: opportunities, fears, and the power of curiosity 29:39 – Holistic learning: why wellbeing and environment matter 31:51 – Introducing ShiftWell: personalized learning meets real ROI 35:30 – How ShiftWell’s AI coach, Clara, supports managers and teams 41:09 – ROI for CFOs and execs: measurable impact from learning tech 44:32 – Will employees actually talk to AI coaches? 45:59 – Wonder and achievement: battling burnout with intentional learning 48:09 – The power of “wonder walks”: creating space to think 49:36 – Elena’s vision: what company transformation looks like with ShiftWell 51:46 – Elena’s final takeaway: Intentional learning = real impact 53:17 – Where to connect with Elena 54:02 – Outro: Take ownership & stay curious  About Elena Agaragimova Elena Agaragimova is co-founder and CEO of ShiftWell, a human-centered tech platform transforming workplace performance and wellbeing. With over 15 years of experience in higher education, corporate learning, and entrepreneurship, Elena has influenced thousands through her innovative coaching, facilitation, and consulting. Her passion for building scalable solutions, nurturing young talent, and driving sustainable engagement shines through. Elena also hosts the Shift with Elena podcast.  Resources & Mentions: ShiftWell – Elena’s tech platform for personalized learning and wellbeing Elena on LinkedIn Elena’s YouTube Channel Gallup Report on Engagement (referenced in the episode) Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates.