Have you ever felt like you didn’t deserve your seat at the table — even after earning it? Then it’s time to meet the “Imposter Monsters” and learn how to slay the beasts within!Â
From teller to trailblazer, Nanci Wilson’s journey proves that unexpected turns lead to extraordinary destinations. In this vibrant and hilarious conversation, Nicole and Nanci unpack the five “Imposter Monsters” that sabotage confidence and success — and teach you how to quiet them once and for all.
Nanci’s infectious humor and heartfelt honesty will inspire you to rewrite your story, own your worth, and remember that perfection isn’t the goal — progress is.
Vibrant Highlights:
[00:08:59] Heart & Hustle University: Creating Your Own Diploma
When life doesn’t hand you credentials, make your own! Nanci shares how she founded “Heart & Hustle University,” proving that grit, growth, and experience matter more than letters after your name.
[00:15:29] The Soloist Monster: Why Asking for Help Makes You Stronger
“If I have to ask for help, I’m a fraud.” Sound familiar? Nanci and Nicole dismantle this lie, reminding leaders that collaboration is courage — and culture thrives when everyone brings their strengths to the table.
[00:19:15] The Overachiever Trap: Redefining Success as Rest
Overachievers, this one’s for you! Nanci reveals that true success isn’t endless hustle — it’s knowing when to pause, breathe, and celebrate small wins. No warm cookies for burnout!
Connect with Nanci:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nanci-wilson-cude-ccufc-932720103/
Email: nanci@luminate.coop
Also mentioned in this episode:
CliftonStrengths Finders https://vibrantculture.com/assessments/#clifton
Listen at vibrantculture.com/podcast or wherever you get your podcasts!
Book Nicole to help your organization ignite clarity, accountability, and energy through her SHINE™ Coaching Methodology.
Visit vibrantculture.com
Email: nicole@vibrantculture.com
Watch Nicole’s TEDx Talk: https://youtu.be/SMbxA90bfXE
What if the biggest threat to your company culture isn’t strategy — it’s the jerks at work? In this lively and insightful episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole welcomes back Rich Salon, affectionately known as "Rich the HR Guy." Together, they explore the hilarious yet hard-hitting truths in his new book, The One Minute Jerk at Work.
Rich breaks down the damage caused by “jerk-like behavior” — from absenteeism and turnover to eroded trust and toxic workplaces — and offers practical strategies for turning things around. With humor and humanity, Rich introduces memorable personas like “Backstabbing Brian,” “Pessimistic Pete,” and “Shirking Sherry,” illustrating the real impact of poor behavior on culture, morale, and brand reputation.
Nicole and Rich discuss how leaders can confront difficult employees with courage and compassion, using one-on-one conversations and HR partnership. They explore tools like the “No Jerk Rule,” stay interviews instead of exit interviews, and reflective practices that build stronger, kinder teams. The episode closes with an inspiring message: anyone can change — even the office jerk — when given awareness, feedback, and grace.
Vibrant Highlights:
[00:02:46] – Rich explains the real impact of “jerk-like behavior” on trust, productivity, and profits.
[00:12:19] – The courage to deliver “tough love” and how it raises your leadership stature.
[00:23:56] – “Institute the No Jerk Rule” — a simple framework for creating a respectful workplace.
[00:28:49] – The power of reflection in leadership: learning from the biggest jerks you’ve met.
Connect with Rich:
Rich's book, The One-Minute Jerk at Work: https://a.co/d/fOEbr2h
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-salon-sphr-shrm-scp/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/rich.salon.12
IG: https://www.instagram.com/richthehrguy/
X: https://x.com/BusOwnConnect
Also mentioned in this episode:
The Stay Interview by Richard Finnegan: https://a.co/d/iGIa7BP
Listen at vibrantculture.com/podcast or wherever you get your podcasts!
Book Nicole to help your organization ignite clarity, accountability, and energy through her SHINE™ Coaching Methodology.
Visit vibrantculture.com
Email: nicole@vibrantculture.com
Watch Nicole’s TEDx Talk: https://youtu.be/SMbxA90bfXE
What does it take to lead with heart, humor, and hope? In this joyful and deeply meaningful episode, Nicole Greer, the Vibrant Coach, sits down with Rabbi Mike Moskowitz of Temple Shir Shalom in Detroit—her former coaching client and longtime friend—to explore how spiritual leadership, organizational systems, and a values-driven vision can create thriving, connected communities.
From Traction and 10-year plans to bar mitzvahs, Portugal pilgrimages, and “dancing in the aisles,” Rabbi Mike shows that leadership is about service, joy, and showing up for others. Together, he and Nicole unpack what every leader—whether in a temple, business, or nonprofit—can learn from building a vibrant culture of belonging, hope, and gratitude.
Vibrant Highlights:
[00:04:30] Building a Faith-Based Culture Using Traction: Rabbi Mike explains how his temple adopted Traction to operate like a well-run business—balancing growth with intimacy and purpose.
[00:18:35] “Save You a Seat”: Radical Inclusion in Action: A touching story about welcoming a child with special needs and the ripple effect of compassion in community culture.
[00:30:29] Leading Through Crisis and Conflict: Rabbi Mike reflects on responding to the Israel conflict with empathy, presence, and unity—what it means to lead without all the answers.
[00:44:29] Servant Leadership and the Joy of Watching Others Shine: Rabbi Mike shares his philosophy of leadership as service—and the fulfillment of watching others exceed their own expectations.
[00:47:30] The Power of Lifelong Learning: Rabbi Mike’s final message: never stop learning for learning’s sake—because growth fuels every vibrant culture.
Connect with Rabbi Mike:Website:Â
https://www.shirshalom.org/
Email: mikem@shirshalom.org
FB: https://www.facebook.com/michael.moskowitz.79
X: https://x.com/rabbimlm
IG: https://www.instagram.com/michaelmoskowitz/
LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-moskowitz-4242a248/
Also mentioned on this episode:
Traction by Gino Wickman: https://a.co/d/8OjLo0R
Book Nicole to help your organization ignite clarity, accountability, and energy through her SHINE™ Coaching Methodology!
> Visit vibrantculture.com
> Email: nicole@vibrantculture.com
> Watch Nicole’s TEDx Talk: https://youtu.be/SMbxA90bfXE
What if your team’s potential was greater than you ever imagined—and all it took to unlock it was clarity, candor, and courage? In this episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole Greer sits down with George Pesansky, operational-excellence leader, performance coach, and author of Superperformance. Together they dive deep into the systems and mindsets that turn average teams into superperformers.
From the Dunning-Kruger Effect to the Golden Hour, George offers a roadmap for leaders who want to maximize results without micromanaging. You’ll learn how to build clarity, break free from the prison of expectations, and create an “improvement factory” that keeps your organization evolving. This conversation is packed with truth-telling, humor, and actionable insights you can use right away—whether you lead a manufacturing floor, a finance team, or a fast-growing business.
Vibrant Episode Highlights
[00:03:00] Start with Yourself, Then Scale It — George explains why true performance begins at the individual level before it can cascade to the team and organization.
[00:11:48] The Golden Hour — The powerful practice of studying success instead of just fixing problems.
[00:27:20] Utility Over Value — Why your ability to execute (“utility”) matters more than what you know (“value”).
[00:35:13] The Ugly Baby Technique — How to tell the truth about your projects and create a culture where feedback fuels excellence.
[00:48:52] Find the Friction, Lower the Temperature — Discover your team’s “hot spots” by following the superhero who always saves the day.
Connect with George:
George's book, Superperformance: https://a.co/d/cS40yGX
George's website: https://georgepesansky.com/
Company Website: https://myblendedlearning.com
Capacity 2 Care (fill out Contact Me form): https://myblendedlearning.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deliberateimprovement/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/georgepesansky/
X: https://x.com/SuperPerformnz
FB: https://www.facebook.com/george.pesansky
Also mentioned in this episode:
Mindset by Carol Dweck: https://a.co/d/4yol2lv
The 7 Habits of Highly Successful People by Stephen Covey: https://a.co/d/fwD3T7V
Change by John Kotter: https://a.co/d/esyKWkL
Servant Leadership by Robert Greenleaf: https://a.co/d/itSginC
Listen at vibrantculture.com/podcast or wherever you listen to podcasts!
Learn more about Nicole Greer, The Vibrant Coach, at vibrantculture.com.
Are you capturing the real heart of your culture—or hiding behind polished posts? This week, Nicole Greer sits down with Corey Perlman, bestselling author of Authentically Social and founder of Impact Social Media. Together they explore how leaders, HR pros, and entrepreneurs can use social media to showcase the humans behind the brand, attract top talent, and authentically engage customers.
Corey shares his proven framework—five practical principles to help you stop chasing algorithms and start building community. From his “capture instead of create” mantra to his reminder that “the algorithms favor the bold,” you’ll learn how to humanize your brand, build belonging, and make your culture visible to the world.
Nicole and Corey swap vibrant stories—from bandanas and drum circles to hinge videos that went viral—and prove that authenticity, humor, and humanity are your greatest marketing tools.
Vibrant Highlights:
[00:04:00] Authentically Human: Corey explains how showcasing the “faces, voices, and stories that breathe life into your brand” builds community and culture.
[00:08:20] The Shiny Penny Syndrome: Focus your energy—don’t chase every new platform; master the one where your audience lives.
[00:25:00] Talk About Baristas, Not Coffee: Humanize your brand by spotlighting your people, not just your products.
[00:29:40] More Funny, More Money: Why humor and lighthearted content can make your culture magnetic.
[00:32:30] Be Down with OPP (Other People’s Posts): Engage, comment, and share—because every digital high-five fuels your culture and reach.
Connect with Corey:
Corey's book: https://a.co/d/9uKfmhBCorey's speaking website: https://coreyperlman.com/
Corey's business website: https://impactsocialmedia.com/
LinkedIn (personal): https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreyperlman/
LinkedIn (business): https://www.linkedin.com/company/impactsocialmedia/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/coreyperlman
IG: https://www.instagram.com/coreyperlmanspeaks/
X: https://www.X.com/CoreyPerlman
Listen at vibrantculture.com/podcast or wherever you listen to podcasts!
Learn more about Nicole Greer, The Vibrant Coach, at vibrantculture.com.
What if every single person in your organization—no matter their title—stepped into a starring leadership role? In this episode of Build a Vibrant Culture, Nicole Greer welcomes Lasada “LP” Pippen, a powerhouse keynote speaker and the author of It’s Just Not Common Sense. Once a computer engineer, LP now inspires audiences with The Climb, his signature keynote that equips leaders and teams with the mindset to rise higher, personally and professionally.
Nicole and LP unpack six powerful principles—Trust, Preference, Perspective, Problem, Moment, and Contentment—that transform the way we lead and the cultures we build. Along the way, they dive into how to replace fear with psychological safety, why principles outlast policies, and how to embrace curiosity, change, and trust at every level of an organization.
If you’re ready to see problems as opportunities, reset your perspective, and build a culture rooted in trust, this conversation is your roadmap to climbing higher and creating a vibrant workplace.
Vibrant Highlights:
[00:02:30] What “leadership at every level” really means
[00:11:15] Trust as the foundation of culture (and why it matters more than love)
[00:20:05] The Preference Principle: freedom to work your way
[00:40:10] The Moment Principle: why “now” is the best timeframe
[00:44:37] Nicole and LP’s final recap of the six principles for building a vibrant culture
Connect with LP:
Website: https://www.lasadapippen.com/home
Book: https://www.lasadapippen.com/book-store
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lasada-pippen-keynote/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LasadaPippen
X: https://www.x.com/lasadapippen
Also mentioned in this episode:
Positive Intelligence by Shirzad Chamine: https://a.co/d/65htxO2
Paralympian David Brown: https://www.teamusa.com/profiles/david-brown
TedTalk "How to Start a Movement" by Derek Sivers: https://www.ted.com/talks/derek_sivers_how_to_start_a_movement?utm_campaign…
Listen at vibrantculture.com/podcast or wherever you listen to podcasts!
Learn more about Nicole Greer, The Vibrant Coach, at vibrantculture.com.
What if laughter was the secret ingredient to stronger teams, safer workplaces, and unforgettable training? On this episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole Greer welcomes Robb Patton—a professional pilot, stand-up comedian, and co-founder of Highbrow Safety Werks—who proves that humor isn’t just for fun, it’s for performance.
Robb reveals how playful parody videos, jokes in the cockpit, and even Lego mini-figures can transform “mandatory training” into memorable learning. From building psychological safety to breaking down barriers in serious industries, Robb shows leaders and HR pros how to use levity to lift culture. You’ll leave inspired with practical tips, contagious laughter, and a fresh perspective on how humor helps teams soar.
Vibrant Highlights:
00:02:49 – Why humor and learning belong together—even in serious industries.
00:14:25 – Emotional intelligence and the role of humor in leadership.
00:22:03 – Why laughing at ourselves strengthens culture and trust.
00:38:32 – Practical tips: misdirection, “rule of three,” and callbacks.
00:43:11 – How AI can help leaders bring humor into training.
Connect with Robb:
Robb's Book, The Plane That Prolly Could: https://a.co/d/dfYHWri
Website: https://www.highbrowsafety.com/
LinkedIn (business): https://www.linkedin.com/company/highbrow-safety-werks/posts/?feedView=all
LinkedIn (personal): https://www.linkedin.com/in/robb-patton-49a3b310/
Also mentioned on this episode:
Humor, Seriously by Jennifer Aaker & Naomi Bagdonas: https://a.co/d/gCiQ7vH
Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman: https://a.co/d/4uoFaxW
Do It Yourself Funny by G.Campbell, T.Gard, and M.Mayfield: https://funnieru.com/
Radical Candor by Kim Scott: https://a.co/d/1ni1sQy
Crucial Conversations by Joseph Grenny et al: https://a.co/d/6H0QKVf
Listen at vibrantculture.com/podcast or wherever you listen to podcasts!
Learn more about Nicole Greer, The Vibrant Coach, at vibrantculture.com.
What if the secret to a thriving culture wasn’t about playing it safe, but about helping people be brave? In this episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, host Nicole Greer sits down with Marine Corps veteran, keynote speaker, and bravery scientist Jill Schulman to explore her new book, The Bravery Effect. Jill reveals how fear shows up at work — from staying silent in meetings to avoiding tough conversations — and how leaders can help their teams cross the bridge from where they are to where they want to be.
Together, Nicole and Jill break down the three keys to building your “bravery muscle”: developing a courageous mindset, taking bold action, and curating a brave tribe that calls you to higher ground. Expect practical strategies, science-backed tools, and a healthy dose of inspiration. Whether you’re leading a team, growing your career, or simply trying to face your next big challenge with confidence, this episode is your invitation to run toward fear and transform it into growth.
Vibrant Highlights:
02:44 – Blowing Things Up (Literally): Jill’s combat engineering background and transition to business leadership
08:39 – Everyday Acts of Bravery: Speaking up, asking for promotions, having hard conversations
12:18 – The Habit of Being Brave: From Bandura’s self-efficacy research to Roy Baumeister’s “attack the day” strategy
23:10 – Building Your Bravery Muscle: How repeated action rewires your brain and strengthens courage
33:32 – Growth Mindset + Stress Mindset: How believing it’s possible fuels action and resilience
38:27 – Embrace the Suck: Turning stress into character-building fuel
Connect with Jill:
Jill's book, The Bravery Effect: https://a.co/d/6f8NymU
Website: https://www.jillschulman.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillaschulman/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jillschulman/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jillschulman?si=OLp_zRLNANAiidSy
Also mentioned in this episode:
The One Minute Manager by Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson: https://a.co/d/b4REjLc
Positive Psychology in a Nutshell by Ilona Boniwell: https://a.co/d/dBcNyHR
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck: https://a.co/d/8FyyErZ
The Upside of Stress by Kelly McGonigal: https://a.co/d/3aTqDqy
Rethinking Positive Thinking by Gabriele Oettingen: https://a.co/d/5bXJXNS
Listen at vibrantculture.com/podcast or wherever you listen to podcasts!
Learn more about Nicole Greer, The Vibrant Coach, at vibrantculture.com.
Ready to unleash the hidden greatness in your leaders? In this electrifying episode of Build a Vibrant Culture, Nicole Greer sits down with Greg Smith, General Manager of Franklin Covey’s Executive Coaching Practice, whose coaching success rate blows past 97%! Greg brings over 25 years of experience guiding leaders at powerhouse companies like Walmart, Deloitte, and Disney. Together, Nicole and Greg crack open what really happens when coaching becomes the engine for building a culture where leaders thrive — and why coaching is THE secret weapon for preventing those painful leadership derailments.
Nicole and Greg dive deep into the magic of assessments, the game-changing question every leader must answer (“What’s it like to experience you?”), and the frameworks that turn good leaders into great ones. You’ll discover how to harness process tension (yes, that’s a good thing!), raise your self-awareness, and lead with energy, courage, and clarity. This episode will leave you inspired to invest in coaching — for yourself, for your team, and for the future of your organization.
Vibrant Highlights:
[02:18] Coaching & Culture: Greg explains why leaders must “eat, drink, and sleep” their company’s culture and how coaching helps them align with it
[07:22] The Big Question: Nicole shares the powerful coaching question, “What is it like to experience you?” and how it transforms leaders’ self-awareness
[16:22] Defining Coaching: Greg distinguishes coaching from mentoring, consulting, and advising—and why only 50% of so-called “coaching” achieves results
[23:23] Framework for Change: Greg breaks down Franklin Covey’s four-stage coaching process: alignment, data, coaching, and transition
[45:51] Process Tension: Learn how to create accountability and sustainable behavior change by making your goals visible to your stakeholders
Connect with Greg:
Website: franklincovey.com/coaching
Greg's Article: Â The Four Secrets to Managing Executive Transitions: https://www.fastcompany.com/91352305/how-to-successfully-manage-executive-transitions-management-executive-tarnsitions
LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregsmith-fc/
LinkedIn Corporate: https://www.linkedin.com/company/franklincovey/
Also mentioned in this episode:
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey: https://a.co/d/cjDUcJ0
What Got You Here Won't Get You There by Marshall Goldsmith: https://a.co/d/8YxQ20Y
The First 90 Days by Michael Watkins: https://a.co/d/7jtXQEk
Hope Is Not a Strategy by Sirisha Bamidipati & Harish Kumar: https://a.co/d/1pCgMiQ
Listen at vibrantculture.com/podcast or wherever you listen to podcasts!
Learn more about Nicole Greer, The Vibrant Coach, at vibrantculture.com.
Are you ready to bring energy, engagement, and excellence to your leadership? In this lively conversation, we unpack practical tools for coaching, mentoring, and managing that create a truly vibrant culture. You'll discover how to ignite your team's motivation, implement systems that actually work, and show up as the kind of leader others love to follow.
We’ll dive into real-world stories, share a few laughs, and explore the mindset shifts that turn ordinary workplaces into thriving communities. Expect actionable strategies you can put into practice the moment you finish listening—everything from improving communication to inspiring accountability. This episode will leave you fired up, focused, and ready to transform your team culture into one that shines with purpose, passion, and performance.
Vibrant Highlights:
03:15 — Nicole breaks down the difference between a boss and a leader (and why it matters).
09:42 — The power of storytelling to shift culture and inspire action.
16:58 — A simple coaching question that gets people thinking (and moving).
22:30 — How to create systems that support—not stifle—your team’s creativity.
28:55 — The “next step” every leader should take to keep their team energized.
Connect with Mary:
Website: https://www.constantcontact.com/
LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryrusterholz/
LinkedIn Corporate: https://www.linkedin.com/company/constant-contact/
Also mentioned in this episode:
The Culture Code: https://a.co/d/e18GrIs
Good to Great: https://a.co/d/jhVCqDD
Listen at vibrantculture.com/podcast or wherever you listen to podcasts!
Learn more about Nicole Greer, The Vibrant Coach, at vibrantculture.com.
What if the secret to better leadership wasn’t doing exactly what’s asked—but uncovering what’s really needed? In this episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture podcast, Nicole Greer welcomes Bill Shander, author of Stakeholder Whispering, educator, and data storytelling expert. Bill reveals how leaders can shift from reactive execution to strategic impact by slowing down, asking the right questions, and uncovering hidden needs. Together, Nicole and Bill dive into the power of fast vs. slow thinking, the Socratic method, and the role of empathy and curiosity in building trust. You’ll learn practical tools like the Five Whys and active listening to help you transform workplace conversations into meaningful progress. If you’re ready to sharpen your leadership and strengthen your culture, this conversation will show you how to whisper your way to success!
Vibrant Highlights:
[00:03:06] What is a stakeholder? – Bill defines the broad meaning of “stakeholder” and why the word is both problematic and essential.
[00:06:12] Not fully baked ideas – Why leaders often ask for the wrong “cake” and how whispering uncovers what’s really needed.
[00:08:17] Fast vs. slow thinking – Drawing from Daniel Kahneman’s research, Bill explains why slowing down leads to better decisions.
[00:12:16] The Socratic method & puzzlement (aporia) – How asking thoughtful questions creates insight and clarity for stakeholders.
[00:43:35] The Five Whys – Bill shares how this tool digs past surface requests to reveal the true root cause of the request.
Bill's Book, Stakeholder Whispering: https://a.co/d/bNFQ6w4
Download a free digital preview (scroll to bottom of page): https://billshander.com/books/#:~:text=free%20digital%20preview
Connect with Bill:
Website: https://billshander.com/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/billshander/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BillShander
Also mentioned in this episode:
Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman: https://a.co/d/6MnHI70
Listen at vibrantculture.com/podcast or wherever you listen to podcasts!
Learn more about Nicole Greer, The Vibrant Coach, at vibrantculture.com.
Thanks for checking us out and we hope to see you right here each Wednesday for a new episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture podcast!
What if your company’s benefits package could do more than check a box—what if it could shape your culture, empower your people, and transform your bottom line?
In this energizing episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole Greer is joined by Stacy Edgar, co-founder and CEO of Venteur, to explore the powerful connection between employee benefits and workplace culture. Together, they dive into how personalized, flexible healthcare options—like ICHRA—can signal core values, improve retention, boost morale, and even lower costs. With vivid stories from companies who are doing benefits differently and insights into how individual agency transforms employee wellness, this conversation is a must-listen for leaders ready to build vibrant, people-first organizations. Whether you're in HR or simply want to take control of your own healthcare journey, this episode will shift your thinking and inspire you to lead with intention.
Vibrant Highlights:
[00:03:00] How a benefits package sends a value signal to employees
[00:07:36] "Checkbox culture" vs. intentional benefits strategy
[00:10:39] Wellness perks as cultural signals that attract the right people
[00:17:22] The power of choice: how a 27-year-old redefined his benefits
[00:25:10] Real-life impact: a car dealership saves costs and boosts participation
Connect with Stacy:
Website: https://www.venteur.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacyedgar/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@venteurhealth
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/venteurhealth/
X: https://x.com/VenteurHealth
Listen at vibrantculture.com/podcast or wherever you get your podcasts!
Learn more about Nicole Greer, The Vibrant Coach, at vibrantculture.com.
In this high-energy conversation, Nicole Greer sits down with Karen Ball, Senior Fellow at ProSci and author of The ADKAR Advantage, to uncover the secret to making change stick — in individuals, teams, and entire organizations. With over 40 years in change leadership, Karen shares inspiring stories, practical tools, and a proven framework for moving people from “Why change?” to “We did it!” Whether you’re leading a massive transformation or coaching one person through a shift, this episode delivers the clarity, process, and mindset you need to make change make sense — and make it last.
Highlights from this episode:
[00:06:00] Karen explains the ADKAR model — Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability, and Reinforcement — and why change success happens at the individual level first.
[00:12:00] Real-life success story: Graham’s journey from non-swimmer to confident swimmer using ADKAR as his personal roadmap.
[00:27:00] Why active and visible sponsorship is the #1 factor in change success — and how leaders can step into the role.
[00:33:00] Scaling change from one person to an entire organization by building capability and maturity in change management.
[00:42:00] Karen’s final nugget: “ADKAR makes change make sense” — creating a clear, adaptable framework for any transformation.
Connect with Karen:
Buy her book: https://a.co/d/dfEdiVs
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenball26/
Listen today at vibrantculture.com/podcast or your favorite podcast platform!
Learn more about Nicole Greer, the Vibrant Coach: https://www.vibrantculture.com/
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!
•••
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!
~~~
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 -Â 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!Â
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.Â
You’ll learn:
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!Â
Listen today at vibrantculture.com/podcast or your favorite podcast app!