Welcome to "The Best of Build A Vibrant Culture!" While Nicole takes a short summer break to receive her Certified Speaking Professional (CSP®) designation, please enjoy this vintage episode from 2023. We'll see you next week!

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Ever been told you’re “too sensitive” to lead? Think again!

In this throwback episode, Heather Dominick shows how highly sensitive leaders are reshaping the future of work. If you’ve ever felt “different” as a leader, this episode proves it’s your greatest strength! Heather reveals the 12 powerful traits of highly sensitive leaders and how to harness them to lead with empathy, vision, and impact—without burnout.

Being “different” isn’t a weakness—it’s the future of leadership. Learn how to lead with heart, harness your strengths, and inspire transformation in your team and organization.

Highlights from this episode:

[00:03:00] What It Means to Be Highly Sensitive – Heather explains how only 20% of people are born with this unique wiring and why it’s a hidden leadership advantage.

[00:08:00] The 12 Strengths of Highly Sensitive Leaders – From intuition to deep listening, discover the traits that turn sensitivity into a superpower.

[00:16:00] Creativity and Vision in Leadership – Heather shares how highly sensitive leaders bring innovative, out-of-the-box solutions to the table.

[00:24:00] Deep Thinking for Big Impact – Learn why quiet time and reflection are critical for effective, transformative leadership.

[00:33:00] Creating Cultures of Justice and Inclusion – How highly sensitive leaders champion fairness and belonging within their organizations.

Buy Heather's book, Different: The Highly Sensitive Leadership Revolution, here: https://a.co/d/1NS6XoW

Connect with Heather:
Website: https://www.businessmiracles.com/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/businessmiracles

Also mentioned in this episode:
The Highly Sensitive Person by Elaine Aron: https://a.co/d/hQdTqw6
Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill: https://a.co/d/1QZ1WWM

Listen today at vibrantculture.com/podcast or your favorite podcast app!

Welcome to "The Best of Build A Vibrant Culture!" While Nicole takes a short summer break to receive her Certified Speaking Professional (CSP®) designation, please enjoy this vintage episode from 2023. We'll see you next week!

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We’re throwing it back to November 2023 for an unforgettable conversation with Dr. Carrie Graham, Adult Learning Strategist, consultant, and champion for creating learning-driven workplace cultures.

In this lively episode, Nicole and Dr. Carrie dive deep into how organizations can transform their training from “check-the-box” sessions into engaging, retention-boosting, skill-applying learning experiences that stick. Whether you’re a leader, HR professional, or lifelong learner, this episode will ignite your passion for developing people and building a culture where learning thrives.

Highlights from this episode:

[00:04:15] From Average Student to Learning Strategist – Dr. Carrie shares her journey from struggling student to champion of adult learning and how anyone can change their relationship with learning.

[00:18:30] Why People-First Training Wins – Discover how putting employees at the center of learning drives buy-in, attention, and long-term results.

[00:27:00] The ERA Model Unpacked – Engagement, Retention, Application: Dr. Carrie reveals her 3-step approach for creating training that actually sticks.

[00:36:50] The CEO Who Showed Up – A powerful story of a leader who transformed a mandatory training into a meaningful cultural moment just by being present.

Connect with Dr. Carrie Graham:
Website: https://www.drcarriegraham.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarriegraham/

Listen today at vibrantculture.com/podcast or your favorite podcast app!

This episode is a celebration—literally! Joel Zeff brings his signature humor and insight to the mic, showing us why fun isn’t a frivolous extra—it’s a fundamental part of vibrant leadership and team success. Nicole and Joel dive into what it really means to lead with passion, how celebration fuels performance, and why your workplace desperately needs more "Ta-Da!" moments. From his unforgettable "magic harmonica" story to his formula for sparking creativity and connection, Joel shares why choosing fun might just be the smartest decision a leader can make.

Whether you’re managing a team or managing yourself, this episode will have you laughing, learning, and thinking differently about what makes a workplace truly thrive.

Highlights from this episode:
[00:03:52] The Ta-Da Principle: Why celebration at work builds confidence, sparks motivation, and leads to better performance—no confetti required.
[00:06:41] Appreciation + Opportunity = Magic: Joel reveals his winning formula for creating team engagement and eliminating "Bye-Bye People."
[00:17:02] The Magic Harmonica Moment: How losing a job (with a harmonica in hand) led Joel to discover his purpose—and the power of choosing your attitude.

[00:30:38] Defining YOUR kind of fun – (hint: it’s different for everyone)

FREE DOWNLOAD from Joel:
Visit www.joelzeff.com and sign up for his email list or send him a quick note, let him know you were listening to the Build a Vibrant Culture podcast, and Joel will send you a free chapter of his book!

Connect with Joel:
Buy his book: https://a.co/d/9IRSv4N
Website: https://www.joelzeff.com/
YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCHHkzviQLQB9wSiQx4zuf0Q
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelzeff/

Listen today at vibrantculture.com/podcast or your favorite podcast platform!
Learn more about Nicole Greer, the Vibrant Coach: https://www.vibrantculture.com/

In this powerful episode of Build a Vibrant Culture, Nicole Greer welcomes Jim Collison—CliftonStrengths Community Manager at Gallup—for an energizing and practical conversation about building strengths-based cultures. Jim shares real-world insights from his journey, coaching advice, and why focusing on what’s right with people is a game-changer for engagement, wellbeing, and performance.

Together, Nicole and Jim unpack the philosophy behind CliftonStrengths, why it's more relevant than ever, and how leaders and individuals can name it, claim it, and aim it in life and work. They also discuss:

[00:01:07] The difference between talents and strengths—and how to use both. Jim explains the origin of CliftonStrengths and how talent themes become strengths through awareness and application.

[00:03:00] How to create psychologically safe environments for strengths to thrive. Jim emphasizes the importance of safe spaces where strengths can be honored, beyond just understanding them.

[00:14:06] Why leaders and followers must take responsibility for culture.
Jim discusses why culture-building isn’t just on leaders—everyone has a role in creating engagement and collaboration.

[00:21:31] Ways to integrate your strengths into life—even if your organization isn’t on board. Jim shares how individuals can apply their CliftonStrengths personally, including practical tools like journaling and coaching.

[00:29:13] How to reframe and work around your bottom 5 strengths. A story about a woman upset about her #34 theme—and Jim’s advice for building systems and support around lesser talents.

[00:22:37] Practical tools and habits to keep your strengths top of mind daily.

From post-it notes and wall art to project planning and feedback loops, Jim gives easy ways to embed strengths into daily life.

Connect with Jim:
Email: jcollison@live.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jimcollison
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JimCollison

Listen at vibrantculture.com/podcast or wherever you listen to podcasts!
Learn more about Nicole Greer, The Vibrant Coach, at vibrantculture.com.

What if your team’s best innovation is stuck behind a lie - like “I’m not creative”? In this episode, Nicole Greer sits down with Melissa Dinwiddie, author of The Creative Sandbox Way: Your Path to a Full-Color Life, to smash that myth and uncover the truth: creativity is your birthright—and it’s the key to building a vibrant, energized culture.

Melissa shares her personal journey from self-doubt to singing jazz, thriving as an artist in Silicon Valley, and coaching leaders at Google, Facebook, and Salesforce. She introduces her 10 transformative guideposts to unlock innovation, break through fear, and help people across all industries build their own “Creative Sandbox.” Whether you lead a team, launch ideas, or build culture, this episode will give you the tools—and the mindset—to turn possibility into reality.

Vibrant Highlights:

[00:06:54] – The lie of “I’m not creative”—and how most people are wounded out of creativity in childhood.

[00:25:48] – “Think Quantity, Not Quality”: Why messy first drafts and crappy pots are the secret to innovation.
[00:29:38] – Tiny and daily wins: how 15 minutes a day changed Melissa’s creative life—and can spark your next big thing.
[00:33:21] – “Take the riskier path” — If you’re not risking, you’re not innovating. Even Coca-Cola took big swings!
[00:36:57] – Dismiss the Gremlins: How to spot the sneaky voices of fear and self-doubt—and send them off for a pedicure.
[00:43:22] – Self-awareness + self-compassion = the key to everything good. (Golden formula alert!)

Melissa's Book: https://a.co/d/76rgugO

FREE Download -  Impact Innovation Checklist: https://bit.ly/bvcpthankyou

Connect with Melissa:
Website: https://melissadinwiddie.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissadinwiddie/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MelissaDinwiddie
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_creative_life/

Also mentioned in this episode:
Art & Fear by David Bayles & Ted Orland: https://a.co/d/bJJ5Q9Y
Taming Your Gremlin by Rick Carson: https://a.co/d/arACGUq
The Human Condition by Thomas Keating: https://a.co/d/6wNXGqU
Self-Compassion by Kristin Neff: https://a.co/d/4tyG8Ie

Listen at vibrantculture.com/podcast or wherever you listen to podcasts! 
Learn more about Nicole Greer, The Vibrant Coach, at vibrantculture.com

In this exceptionally vibrant episode of The Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole Greer sits down with Taylor Scott—author, keynote speaker, and former Disney leader—to explore how hospitality principles can transform leadership. With decades of experience at Disney, Gaylord, and The Cosmopolitan, Taylor shares practical wisdom from his bestselling book, Lead with Hospitality, and previews his upcoming leadership fable, Give Hospitality. Together, they discuss the emotional power of connection, the practice of empathy, and the critical difference between doing and leading. Taylor’s insights are a masterclass in how to make people feel seen, valued, and inspired at work. 

You’ll learn:

• Why the best leaders think like hospitality pros
• How to build emotional connection before offering feedback
• Why empathy is a learnable skill every leader needs
• How kindness, time, and significance create a contagious culture

Highlights from this episode:
[00:05:02] – Why emotional connection—not instruction—is the true start of leadership.
[00:12:00] – Taylor explains how emotional resonance drives behavior.
[00:22:47] – Why leaders can (and should) learn how to practice empathy & create connection.
[00:30:33] – Unpacking Taylor's LEAD acronym, a practical framework for servant leadership from the front lines of hospitality.
[00:38:14] – Taylor reveals the true power of encouragement, significance, and being "seen" at work.

Taylor's book: https://a.co/d/eUZYFmm

Connect with Taylor:
Taylor's website: https://leadwithhospitality.com/
Email: taylor@leadwithhospitality.com
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tscott1502/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/tscott1502

Also mentioned in this episode:
Authors Chip Heath & Dan Heath: https://heathbrothers.com/
Switch by Chip Heath & Dan Heath: https://a.co/d/d0Hh8cx
The Happiness Hypothesis by Jonathan Haidt: https://a.co/d/bM2UA13
The Fred Factor by Mark Sanborn: https://a.co/d/abZnJ3D

We are grateful to T Scott for bringing his passion for leadership and workplace culture to the Build a Vibrant Culture podcast! 
Listen today at vibrantculture.com/podcast or your favorite podcast app!

Buckle up—this week's episode lights the fuse on culture-changing conversations, showing you how a single powerful question can ignite an entire organization! In this episode, Nicole Greer sits down with powerhouse duo Cheri Torres and Jackie Stavros, co-authors of Conversations Worth Having, to explore how the practice of Appreciative Inquiry (the other AI) can transform your workplace culture—one conversation at a time.
Together, they share practical tools like the SOAR framework and the 5D cycle, explain how to “flip and frame” any problem into a growth opportunity, and reveal the neuroscience behind positive conversations. Packed with real-world stories from healthcare, manufacturing, and education, this episode shows you how to shift meetings from draining to energizing—starting with a single generative question.
Whether you lead a team, run a business, or want to communicate more effectively, this episode will equip you with simple but powerful practices that create clarity, connection, and real results.

Highlights from this episode:
[00:03:10] What Is Appreciative Inquiry? Jackie defines Appreciative Inquiry as "the other AI"—a strength-based approach that focuses on what's working, what was, and what could be.
[00:14:14] Generative Questions Unlock Human Potential. Learn what makes a question “generative” and how it invites energy, ideas, and inclusion.
[00:22:21] Name It, Flip It, Frame It. The core technique for reframing challenges into conversations worth having, illustrated with a hospital case study.
[00:39:05] Introducing SOAR. The SOAR model (Strengths, Opportunities, Aspirations, Results) is presented as a practical alternative to SWOT analysis.
[00:46:52] The Neuroscience of Conversation
Cheri explains how threat-based conversations shut down the brain—and how positive engagement lights it up.

Get the book here: https://a.co/d/hNaQysC

CWH Foundations Course: https://www.conversationsworthhaving.today/foundations
**Use coupon code VIBRANTCULTURE and get 30% off the course! Expires 8/31/25**

Also mentioned in this episode:
FeedForward concept, Marshall Goldsmith: https://www.marshallgoldsmith.com/post/try-feedforward-instead-of-feedback
Appreciative Inquiry, David Cooperrider: https://a.co/d/esUdQ3x

Connect with Cheri & Jackie:
Website https://www.conversationsworthhaving.today/
Cheri LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/cbtorres/
Jackie LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackie-stavros-0b45824/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/cwhtoday/

Listen today at www.vibrantculture.com/podcast or your favorite podcast platform!
Learn more about Nicole Greer, the Vibrant Coach: https://www.vibrantculture.com/

In this energizing episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture podcast, Nicole Greer sits down with creativity expert and leadership consultant Dr. Amy Climer, author of Deliberate Creative Teams: How to Lead for Innovative Results. Together, they unpack what makes teams truly innovative and how leaders can clear the path for creativity.

You’ll discover Amy’s three-part model for team innovation, why most brainstorming fails, and how to use a proven, research-backed creative problem-solving process that actually works. Plus, Amy shares real-world stories—from manufacturing floors to city council chambers—where creative thinking transformed results.

Get ready to spark your team’s creativity, eliminate idea killers, and finally make innovation part of your everyday culture.

Highlights from this episode:

• [00:07:07] – What creativity actually means (hint: novelty + value).
• [00:12:49] – The Deliberate Creative Teams model: Purpose, Team Dynamics, and Creative Process.
• [00:27:27] – The four-stage creative problem-solving process: Clarify, Ideate, Develop, Implement.
• [00:35:29] – Creativity and change management: how they’re tightly intertwined.
• [00:37:54] – Clearing the path for creativity by eliminating meetings, tasks, and outdated processes.
• [00:47:33] – Final nugget: “Be deliberate to be creative. It will not happen by accident.”

Get Amy's book, Deliberate Creative Teams: https://a.co/d/cGgRt9D

Also mentioned in this episode:
Your Creative Power by Alex Osborn https://a.co/d/j8aICLI

Connect with Amy:
Website: https://climerconsulting.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyclimer/
X: https://x.com/bbeilman

Listen today at www.vibrantculture.com/podcast or your favorite podcast platform!
Learn more about Nicole Greer, the Vibrant Coach: https://www.vibrantculture.com/

In this episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole Greer sits down with Bryon Beilman, CEO of iuvo Technologies and author of Leadership at the Edge. Bryon introduces his innovative "Hyperloop Mindset"—a high-speed, low-friction approach to culture and leadership that propels business forward. Together, they unpack how to hire A+ players, empower leaders at every level, and embed change into your weekly rhythms.

Bryon shares how his award-winning IT consulting firm builds culture intentionally, supports employee growth, and maintains excellence through transparency, feedback, and strategic delegation. Whether you're scaling a business or coaching emerging leaders, this episode is packed with practical tools for leading from the edge.

Highlights from this episode:

[00:04:43] – What is the Hyperloop Mindset? A metaphor for building a business that moves at high speed with low friction—emphasizing simplicity, speed, and continuous improvement.

[00:06:29] – Hire the Best People (Don’t Settle). Great hiring isn’t about filling seats—it’s about aligning with values, culture, and long-term fit.

[00:09:08] – Culture-Driven Interviewing. Final interview includes a passion presentation to assess cultural fit and authenticity—any employee can veto a candidate.

[00:13:36] – Eagles Know Eagles. Why employee referrals and constant recruiting are cornerstones of hiring success.

[00:17:25] – Let Go to Scale. Managers must transition to coaches, letting go of control and empowering others to think, act, and own results.

[00:21:54] – Make Time for Change. Change shouldn't be reactive. It must be scheduled and embedded into the rhythm of the business.

[00:24:29] – Entrepreneurial Energy Lives in Everyone. Leaders must cultivate this spark and build cultures where innovation and ownership thrive.

Get Bryon's book, Leadership At The Edge: https://a.co/d/91fLxn2

Also mentioned in this episode:
Traction by Gino Wickman https://a.co/d/bcpV5fL
Good to Great by Jim Collins https://a.co/d/apHCLtE

Connect with Bryon:
Website: https://beilman.com//
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bbeilman/
X: https://x.com/bbeilman

Listen today at www.vibrantculture.com/podcast or your favorite podcast platform!
Learn more about Nicole Greer, the Vibrant Coach: https://www.vibrantculture.com/

What if innovation wasn’t just for Research & Development? What if every employee had permission—and a process—to contribute game-changing ideas? In this episode of Build a Vibrant Culture podc, Nicole Greer sits down with Ben Bensaou, professor, innovation expert, and author of Built to Innovate, to explore the systems, habits, and cultural practices that embed innovation into a company’s DNA.

Together, they dive into:

• What it means to build an “innovating engine” alongside an “execution engine”
• How global companies like Bayer and WL Gore institutionalize innovation
• Why giving employees “permission” is a non-negotiable for an innovative culture
• The power of listening not only to the voice—but the silence—of the customer
• Why small ideas can spark massive organizational transformation

If you’re a leader wondering how to shift your culture from status quo to breakthrough thinking, this episode is your blueprint.

Connect with Ben!
Book: https://a.co/d/7JOb1ZU
Email: ben.bensaou@insead.eduLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-m-bensaou/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/people/Ben-M-Bensaou/100075875050792/
X: https://x.com/BenBensaou
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@benm.bensaou7167

Learn more about Nicole Greer, the Vibrant Coach: https://www.vibrantculture.com/

What if the secret to building a vibrant culture starts with redesigning your own life? In this episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture  host Nicole Greer sits down with visionary Ryan Rigterink, author of Redesign Life, to explore how purpose, passion, and personal transformation can shape both individual lives and organizational culture. A tech entrepreneur and thought leader in human-centered AI, Ryan shares the powerful framework behind his Redesign Life process and how leaders can tap into their people’s potential through reflection, alignment, and intention.

Together, Nicole and Ryan unpack the six core habits for redesigning life, discuss how talent ecosystems and AI are reshaping leadership, and offer actionable strategies for helping people move from burnout to brilliance. Whether you're leading a team or redefining your personal mission, this episode is full of inspiring insights and practical takeaways to help you ignite purpose and lead with clarity.

Highlights from this episode:

[04:49] – From Toxic to Thriving: Ryan’s journey through burnout, reinvention, and purpose management.

[10:55] – Superhero vs. Zombie Mindset: How imagination and choice impact our life path.

[15:00] – The Six-Step Framework: Prepare, Discover, Understand, Fit, Focus, Balance.

[22:22] – Turn to Wonder: Cultivating curiosity as a leadership and life skill.

[46:59] – Passion Is Strategy: Why igniting passion is the most underutilized success tactic in organizations.

Ryan's book: Redesign Life by Ryan Rigterink: https://a.co/d/5lFryDQ

Also mentioned in this episode:
The Path by Laurie Beth Jones: https://a.co/d/3veka2O
The Ultimate Secret to Getting Absolutely Everything You Want by Mike Hernacki: https://a.co/d/imOE4VN
Unique Ability 2.0 by Strategic Coach (created by Dan Sullivan): https://a.co/d/3q6YvT5
Good to Great by Jim Collins: https://a.co/d/1nUqFpI
Books by Howard Thurman: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Howard-Thurman/author/B000APVW8Y?ref=ap_rdr&a…
Darryl Bellamy's website: https://fearlessinside.com/
The Fearless Revolution by Sandy Gledhill: https://a.co/d/bx54yli

Connect with Ryan:
Website: https://www.leadersops.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-rigterink-1596107/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ryan.rigterink

Listen today at www.vibrantculture.com/podcast or your favorite podcast platform!
Learn more about Nicole Greer, the Vibrant Coach: https://www.vibrantculture.com/

In this episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture podcast, Nicole sits down with people-first HR leader Carrol Ostendorf to talk about building leadership from the inside out. Carrol shares her bold vision for Delta |v| University, a homegrown development platform that’s energizing engineers, elevating young talent, and reinforcing culture across five states. With a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu and a heart for people, Carrol brings humor, insight, and a blueprint for HR teams that want to make real impact.

From onboarding and recognition to mentorship and retention, this conversation is packed with actionable wisdom for building a vibrant, people-centric workplace.

Vibrant Takeaways from this episode:

[00:09:00] Why Engineers Are Geeking Out Over Training: It’s not just training—it’s ownership. Carrol reveals how involving technical teams in content creation has transformed engagement.

[00:12:00] People Are the Product: Discover why recognizing the value of people—not just process—is the real driver of Delta |v|’s culture and retention.

[00:18:00] Cohort Culture & Live Learning: Hear about Delta |v|’s unique leadership cohort model and why creating connection across states is a game-changer.

[00:24:30] Rethinking Recruiting: Carrol shares a fresh, relational approach to hiring that emphasizes transparency, trust, and the power of proximity. 

[00:34:00] How to Handle Mistakes Like a Leader: A candid story of an error—and how owning it with grace and accountability turned into a leadership moment.

Connect with Carrol:
Website: https://www.deltavinc.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrolostendorf/

Listen today at vibrantculture.com/podcast or your favorite podcast platform!
Learn more about Nicole Greer and Build A Vibrant Culture: https://www.vibrantculture.com/

Welcome to the Build A Vibrant Culture Podcast, where clarity, energy, and results collide! This week, Nicole Greer dives into the world of compensation with Jason Smith, Principal Compensation Consultant at Gallagher's Compensation and Rewards Consulting practice. With a career journey that started behind the bar at Applebee’s and led to becoming a recognized expert in compensation strategy, Jason is here to pull back the curtain on the complex world of pay structures, transparency, and fairness.

In this high-energy conversation, Jason shares how to balance internal equity with market competitiveness, the critical difference between pay equity and pay equality, and the evolving trends in compensation strategy post-pandemic. Whether you’re an HR leader, business owner, or team leader, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you pay your team right.

Highlights from this episode:

1. [00:09:52] Pay Equity vs. Pay Equality Explained: Jason clearly defines the difference between pay equity (eliminating wage disparities) and pay equality (ensuring no discrimination). Understanding these concepts is critical for fair compensation practices.
2. [00:19:08] Evolution of Compensation Strategy Post-Pandemic: Jason discusses how compensation strategies have evolved over the last five years, from remote work challenges to pay transparency becoming an industry standard.
3. [00:27:41] Navigating Pay Transparency Laws: Jason provides practical advice for HR professionals preparing for pay transparency regulations, including the importance of maintaining accurate and up-to-date salary ranges.
4. [01:03:31] Don’t Try to Do It All Yourself: Jason’s closing advice to HR professionals is powerful—don’t be afraid to ask for help. Whether navigating compensation strategies, compliance, or pay transparency, experts can provide the support you need.

Connect with Jason:
Email: jason_smith@ajg.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/compenjason/

Listen today at www.vibrantculture.com/podcast or your favorite podcast platform!
Learn more about Nicole Greer, the Vibrant Coach: https://www.vibrantculture.com/

What happens when you combine mentorship, emotional intelligence, and people-first leadership? You get the award-winning culture of Novant Health Rowan Medical Center. In this episode, Nicole Greer, the Vibrant Coach, sits down with two transformational healthcare leaders: Kendra Bowman, Radiology Manager and engagement award-winner, and Gary Blabon, President and COO of Novant Health Rowan Medical Center.

Together, they dive into what it really takes to create a workplace where people thrive—from remembering names to empowering frontline workers to rise into leadership. With heart, humor, and wisdom, Kendra and Gary share stories of growth, resilience, and the power of seeing potential in others.

Whether you're in healthcare or any high-impact industry, this conversation will ignite your passion for leadership with purpose.

Highlights from this episode:

[04:36] – “Be Better Tomorrow Than You Are Today” – Kendra reveals her personal leadership philosophy rooted in resilience, growth, and mentoring those who may not have had a strong foundation.

[08:47] – "Listening and Taking Action:" Kendra shares how simple acts of presence and empathy led to the highest employee engagement score in Novant’s Greater Charlotte region.

[20:43] – “You Should Run the Practice”: Gary tells the emotional story of the unexpected mentor who first saw leadership potential in him—and how it changed the trajectory of his life.

[28:05] – “Care for Your Team First” – Gary challenges the traditional patient-first model by emphasizing the importance of investing in your team before you can deliver exceptional patient care.

[33:57] – “It’s the Connections”: Gary reveals the real “secret sauce” to career growth—and it’s not just talent. It's about respect, relationships, and showing up for people.

Connect with Kendra:
Email:  kdbowman@novanthealth.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendra-bowman-a9a914266/

Connect with Gary:
Email:  gablabon@novanthealth.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-a-blabon-42835676/

Listen today at vibrantculture.com/podcast or your favorite podcast platform!
Learn more about Nicole Greer, the Vibrant Coach: https://www.vibrantculture.com/

What if the secret to stronger teams, better performance, and real engagement isn’t a new system—but a more human approach to leadership? In this powerful episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole Greer sits down with Genevieve Retzlaff, a certified transformational coach and organizational development expert with a background as colorful as her insights—including a stint with Cirque du Soleil! Genevieve brings her passion for people and performance to the forefront as she breaks down what it means to lead with a human-centric mindset in today’s workplace.

Together, Nicole and Genevieve dive into why the traditional command-and-control model of leadership is outdated, and how the best leaders today are those who are self-aware, emotionally intelligent, and willing to adapt. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or a new team leader, this conversation will inspire you to pause, reflect, and take actionable steps toward leading with more heart, clarity, and vision.

Highlights from this episode:

[00:02:22] – Self-Awareness is Step One - Genevieve’s assessment tool helps leaders reflect on their mindset, behavior, and impact.

[00:13:00] – Ask for Feedback to Build Trust - When leaders invite honest feedback, it fosters connection, builds trust, and creates a ripple effect.

[00:34:52] – Coach, Don’t Command - Adopting a coach-like leadership style elevates individuals and the entire team.

Take Genevieve's assessment here: https://www.grow-better-together.com/blog/leadership-selfassessment

Genevieve's website: https://www.grow-better-together.com/

Find Genevieve on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/genevieve-retzlaff/

Also mentioned in this episode:

CliftonStrengths® 34: https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/403127/cliftonstrengths-34-report.aspx

Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman: https://a.co/d/6EC4GMq

Listen today at vibrantculture.com/podcast or your favorite podcast platform!
Learn more about Nicole Greer, the Vibrant Coach: https://www.vibrantculture.com/

Are your hiring practices building a vibrant culture—or inviting lawsuits? What if you could create a workplace people never want to leave? In this episode of Build a Vibrant Culture, Nicole Greer sits down with Adam Kemper, founder of The Workplace Law Firm, to unpack the full employee lifecycle—from attracting top talent to letting someone go—with practical legal advice every business leader needs. With humor, clarity, and loads of real-world experience, Adam reveals the dos, don’ts, and downright dangerous HR moves companies make. Whether you're a business owner, HR leader, or culture-focused executive, this conversation delivers powerful strategies to protect your business and elevate your people.

In this episode, Nicole and Adam discuss how to write legally sound and attractive job postings; the best way to onboard and retain top talent; why performance conversations should never be a surprise; and so much more!

Vibrant Takeaways from this episode:

[00:04:20]  Think of your employment ad as an "opportunity ad". Adam explains how job ads create a company’s first impression and how language, aesthetics, and compliance set the stage for attracting top candidates legally.

[00:12:31]  The Golden Rule of Interviewing. Adam breaks down why staying laser-focused on qualifications—and steering clear of personal questions—keeps you legally safe and ethically sound.

[00:20:43]  “You can’t unsee what you see.” Learn the risks of screening candidates on social media and why partnering with reputable vendors for background checks is critical.

[00:33:33]  Recruitment Never Ends. Hiring isn’t the finish line—retention is. Proactive engagement and feedback fuel long-term employee success and reduce turnover.

[00:51:45]  How to Fire with Integrity (and Without Lawsuits). Before you let someone go, Adam explains why timing, transparency, and legal counsel make all the difference.

Connect with Adam:
Website: https://theworkplacelawfirm.com/
Email: akemper@theworkplacelawfirm.com
Phone: (561) 805-3529
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WorkplaceLawFirm
IG: @adkthegreat
X: @kemperlaborlaw
YouTube: @TheWorkplaceLawFirm
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-kemper-b9599349/

Listen today at vibrantculture.com/podcast or your favorite podcast platform!
Learn more about Nicole Greer, the Vibrant Coach: https://www.vibrantculture.com/

Are your internal emails building trust—or fueling confusion? Is poor communication quietly killing your company culture? In this vibrant conversation, host Nicole Greer sits down with Alejandra Ramirez, a seasoned internal communication strategist and founder of Ready Cultures. With two decades of experience and a passion for creating thriving organizational cultures, Alejandra shares her signature "3H Framework"—Head, Heart, and Hands—a powerful approach for crafting clear, connected, and actionable internal messages.

Together, Nicole and Alejandra dive deep into the importance of communication as a culture-building tool, explore how to establish trust and alignment across teams, and offer real-life stories, practical tips, and ready-to-use tools. Whether you're rolling out a new system, navigating change, or just tired of seeing those dreaded one-letter replies to thoughtful emails (yes, we're talking about that infamous “k”), this episode will inspire you to level up your messaging game and build a more vibrant, connected workplace.

Vibrant Takeaways from this episode:

[00:04:40] Craft with intention: Every message should clarify the facts (head), connect emotionally (heart), and direct next steps (hands).

[00:22:26] Communication builds trust: Transparency isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about showing you care and sharing what you know.

[00:30:33] Process matters: Good communication requires not just good words, but a thoughtful system for how and where messages are delivered.

[00:34:46] The 3H Framework works beyond email: Whether you’re speaking at a town hall or dropping a quick Slack message, applying Head, Heart, and Hands ensures your message lands with clarity and impact.

FREE DOWNLOAD from Alejandra:
https://www.readycultures.com/3h-framework

Connect with Alejandra:
Website: https://www.readycultures.com/
Email: alejandra@readycultures.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malejandraramirez/

Also mentioned in this episode:
Change by John Kotter https://a.co/d/5kgfYT9
Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman https://a.co/d/5kgfYT9

Listen today at vibrantculture.com/podcast or your favorite podcast platform! Learn more about Nicole Greer, the Vibrant Coach: https://www.vibrantculture.com/

In this episode, Nicole sits down with Karl Sakas, a seasoned leadership advisor and operations expert for creative businesses, to explore his latest book, Calm the Chaos. They dive into what it really takes to lead a thriving business or agency without losing your mind—or your weekends. Karl shares powerful insights about managing your energy, delegating intentionally, building strong teams, and yes, surviving meetings that could’ve been emails. He also tackles:

• Why leaders must prioritize their own well-being (and how Karl learned the hard way)
• How to stop being the bottleneck in your business
• Creating a culture that balances warmth with competence
• A hilarious take on “swoop and poop” leadership
• Why bad meetings are the enemy (and how to fix them)

Whether you run an agency, a hospital, or a small business, you’ll walk away with practical strategies to stop spinning your wheels and start leading with focus and purpose.

Highlights from this episode
[07:53] Take Care of Yourself First. “Put on your own oxygen mask before helping others.” Karl shares how his team staged an intervention about his workload—and how that wake-up call changed everything. Start here if you feel burnout creeping in.
[14:19] Stop Being the Sole Answer Person. Delegation isn’t a bumper sticker—it's a complex process. Karl breaks down how to stop being the "go-to" for everything and why that mindset limits your team and your growth.
[24:48] Create the Work Environment You Always Wanted. High warmth, high competence. Karl unpacks a powerful framework to help leaders build culture intentionally. Plus, the difference between being a good boss and just being “nice.”

Karl's book: https://sakasandcompany.com/lp/calm-the-chaos-book/

Connect with Karl:
Karl's website: https://sakasandcompany.com/
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlsakas/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/karlsakas/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/karlsakas
X: https://x.com/KarlSakas

Other books mentioned in this episode:
The Human Brand https://a.co/d/1Yu76uU
Radical Candor https://a.co/d/2S9FwV4
Traction https://a.co/d/4LHm4RG

We are grateful to Karl for bringing his passion for leadership and workplace culture to the Build a Vibrant Culture podcast! Listen at vibrantculture.com/podcast or your favorite podcast app!

In this energizing episode of Build A Vibrant Culture, host Nicole Greer sits down with virtual assistant guru and author Melissa Smith to demystify the world of virtual assistants (VAs). Whether you’re an overwhelmed entrepreneur, a high-performing exec, or someone just tired of doing it all, Melissa offers empowering advice on how the right VA can give you time back, increase your energy, and even save your sanity.

From the myths of delegation to the magic of friction-free productivity, Melissa breaks it all down with warmth and wisdom. Plus, she shares exactly how to find, hire, and build a lasting relationship with your ideal VA. (Spoiler: You don’t need another “you”—you need your complementary opposite.)

She’s the author of Hire the Right Virtual Assistant and Become a Successful Virtual Assistant, and she's got the receipts—20+ years of experience, a top 10 inspiring woman in business, and a 98% VA match success rate.

Highlights from this episode:
[00:02:46] You don’t need to be a pro delegator to hire a VA—just have a clear vision. “If you can share your vision, expectations, and walk through things once, the right VA will take it from there.”
[00:06:01] Your productivity problem is actually an energy problem. Tasks that drain your energy are stealing your momentum. A VA can handle the friction points—like sending newsletters or booking meetings—so you stay in your zone of genius.
[00:34:50] You need someone who complements you. The perfect VA isn’t a clone of you. They’re someone who loves what you loathe and thrives where you stall. That’s the magic of a powerful partnership.

Melissa's books:
Hire the Right Virtual Assistant
Become a Successful Virtual Assistant 

FREE COMPLIMENTARY WORKBOOK: https://thepva.com/complimentary-workbook/

Connect with Melissa:
Website: https://thepva.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissasmiththepva/

Email: melissa@thepva.com

Also mentioned in this episode:

Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals

Unique Ability® 2.0: Discovery - Define Your Best Self
The ONE Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth About Extraordinary Results
Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap...And Others Don't 

Listen today at vibrantculture.com/podcast or your favorite podcast platform!

Please leave us a 5-star review and drop a love note for Melissa in the comments!

Learn more about Nicole Greer, the Vibrant Coach: https://www.vibrantculture.com/

What happens when you walk into a workplace filled with chaos? In this episode, Nicole sits down with the powerhouse author, leadership expert, and former deputy mayor, Irma J. Neal, for a jaw-dropping conversation about Leading in Chaos — the title of her book and the essence of her leadership journey.

Irma shares real, raw stories from her time leading a government department in Washington, D.C. under extreme dysfunction—and how she brought it back to life with structure, empathy, and fearless leadership. From handling fish-frying, gossiping, couch-surfing chaos to confronting political pressure and addiction in the workplace, Irma drops 20 powerful management insights you won’t want to miss.

Key Highlights from this episode:

[00:03:04] – Why every leader should lead with love, empathy, and vision

[00:09:13] – How there's always somebody who is benefiting from the chaos of a dysfunctional workplace

[00:14:05] – Why administrative assistants are your most powerful allies in navigating organizational power

[00:32:18] – How coaching misfits into becoming strong contributors pays off big

[00:41:22] – Just because you solved a problem once doesn’t mean it won’t return

Irma's book: Leading in Chaos
FREE RESOURCE: Self Assessment for a Thriving Workforce

Connect with Irma:
website: www.onyx2rise.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/irma-j-neal-082739118/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leadinginchaos/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/LeadingInChaos/

Also mentioned in this episode:

Life’s Little Instruction Book by H. Jackson Brown

Who Moved My Cheese? by Spencer Johnson, MD

Don’t Forget:

• Like what you heard? Leave us a 5-star review and drop a love note for Irma in the comments!
• Listen today at vibrantculture.com/podcast or your favorite podcast platform!
• Learn more about Nicole Greer, the Vibrant Coach: https://www.vibrantculture.com/