The Corporate Couch: Work Stories I Only Tell My Friends

Mark Mears is back on The Corporate Couch to talk about his brand-new book, LOVE@WORK: Creating Communities of Purpose and Belonging for Revolutionary Growth in a New World of Work. In his follow-up to The Purposeful Growth Revolution, Mark makes a bold claim: the key to transforming business isn’t strategy or systems, it’s love. Before you call HR, hear him out. Mark breaks down his new “LOVE” model for leadership: Listen graciously to build trust. Observe generously to invest in others. Value gratefully to show appreciation. Empower generatively to help people grow. We discuss why traditional “command and control” management no longer serves modern organizations, the importance of language in shaping community (vs. culture), and how belonging, not hierarchy, creates stronger teams. Mark also shares stories from his hospitality and marketing career, his belief in the “power of four,” and why he’s declared 2025 “The Year of Love.” This conversation is a reminder that putting the human back in human resources isn’t just a nice idea; it’s a business imperative.   Here is the Amazon Link for Mark's book: Love @ Work

What does leadership look like when hierarchy takes a back seat to humanity? That’s the question Minette Norman (see her bio below) has spent her career answering. As the former Vice President of Engineering Practice at Autodesk, she led more than 3,500 engineers across the globe, proving that empathy, trust, and courage can drive performance just as powerfully as process and technology. Today, as a consultant, speaker, and author, Minette helps leaders create environments where people feel safe to speak up, collaborate, and innovate. In this conversation, Minette and I explore: Why emotions are data and how leaders can use that insight to make better decisions. The challenges and rewards of leading large, distributed teams. How her book, The Psychological Safety Playbook, equips leaders to build trust and openness. The lessons behind her second book, The Boldly Inclusive Leader. Why the future of leadership depends on listening, not managing. Minette’s perspective is candid, insightful, and deeply practical. She reminds us that the strongest leaders don’t rely on hierarchy; they rely on humanity, courage, and connection.   This episode is brought to you by... Ever wish your company updates could be less "quarterly earnings report" and more "late-night talk show"? At Pelaccio & Partners, we're revolutionizing internal communications with podcasts that employees actually want to listen to. Imagine podcast episodes that make your employees laugh while staying informed. Our founder, Jeff Pelaccio, doesn't just create podcasts; he creates conversations that break through the noise. Whether you're a growing startup or a massive corporation, we turn your company's story into audio gold. Leadership becomes human. Remote teams feel connected. Your message cuts through the clutter. Jeff is happy to share his insights on improving your culture, increasing employee engagement, and retention. You can contact him via LinkedIn or schedule a Zoom call via this link - 15-minute call with Jeff. About Minette: Minette Norman is an author, speaker, and leadership consultant who previously spent decades leading global technical teams in the software industry. She has extensive experience leading internationally distributed teams and believes that when groups embrace diversity in all its forms, breakthroughs emerge, and innovation accelerates. Her most recent position before starting her consultancy was as Vice President of Engineering Practice at Autodesk. Responsible for influencing more than 3,500 engineers around the globe, she focused on state-of-the-art engineering practices while nurturing a collaborative and inclusive culture.  Minette is a keynote speaker on inclusive leadership, psychological safety, collaborative teams, and empathy. Named in 2017 as one of the “Most Influential Women in Bay Area Business” by the San Francisco Business Times and as “Business Role Model of the Year” in the 2018 Women in IT/Silicon Valley Awards, Minette is a recognized leader with a unique perspective. Minette is the author of The Boldly Inclusive Leader and the co-author of The Psychological Safety Playbook.

In this eighth Special Edition of It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere, Marc Shaffer and I raise a glass to reflect on his whirlwind first month after the launch of his debut book, One For All: How to Systemize Kindness, Grow Your Network, and Support Others Like It’s Your Job. We talk about what he’s learned since releasing the book, from reading his own audiobook (“harder than it sounds”) to connecting with students at KU and Mizzou and maybe even starting a friendly campus competition. Marc also shares how he uses templates, CRMs, and even AI to stay on top of hundreds of introductions and follow-ups, proving that connection and consistency can coexist. The conversation takes a personal turn as we talk about Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the passing of Marc’s mother, and his father’s ongoing health journey. We also dive into the power of one-on-one conversations, why he tracks “friendly coffees,” and how joining peer and faith-based business groups has reignited his sense of purpose. It’s a conversation about gratitude, growth, and the systems and people that make it all work.   Pull up a chair (and maybe a pink shirt), it’s always 5 o’clock somewhere!   This episode is brought to you by Searcy Financial. Your financial future begins with a simple question: Where do you want to be? At Searcy Financial, we help successful individuals and families through our mission to simplify your financial journey, empowering you to enjoy life and wealth on your terms. The question sparks a conversation that goes beyond numbers, helping us understand what truly matters to you and the kind of financial plan that aligns with your life goals. It also allows us to identify potential challenges and opportunities so we can proactively address them. The outcome is a plan that empowers you to acquire, grow, and preserve your wealth. Searcy Financial is gearing up to celebrate 50 years of service. Don’t miss out on any of the excitement! To sign up for information on Marc’s book, “One for All,” including where to buy and exclusive website content, or to sign up for the Searcy Financial Wealth Matters email newsletter, use the links below: - Marc's Book "One for All": Keep Me Updated! - "Wealth Matters" newsletter: Sign Me Up!   The opinions expressed herein are those of certain Searcy Financial Services, Inc. personnel and are subject to change without notice. The opinions referenced are as of the date of publication and are subject to revision due to changes in the market or economic conditions and may not necessarily come to pass. Any opinions, promotion, endorsement, projections, or forward-looking statements expressed herein are solely those of the author, may differ from the views or opinions expressed by other areas of the firm, and are only for general informational purposes as of the date indicated. Searcy Financial Services, Inc. was not compensated, nor are there material conflicts of interest that would affect the given statement.

Claude Silver (see her bio below) is rewriting the rules of leadership as the world’s first Chief Heart Officer at VaynerX. Reporting directly to Gary Vaynerchuk, she’s built a culture rooted in empathy, belonging, and emotional intelligence, proving that leading with heart drives both humanity and performance. In our conversation, Claude shares: The story behind her unconventional career path, from Outward Bound instructor to Gary Vee’s #2. The inspiration behind her new book, Be Yourself at Work, and why it’s a roadmap for authentic leadership. How emotional optimism, bravery, and efficiency can change the way teams perform. Why she doesn’t hire for “culture fit” and what she looks for instead. How to lead across generations with grace, not entitlement. Claude also opens up about her early struggles with self-doubt and dyslexia, how a 93-day wilderness expedition changed her life, and why “being yourself” isn’t a cliché, it’s a competitive advantage. It’s one of my favorite conversations, which is filled with honesty, humanity, and heart from one of the most influential voices in modern leadership.   This episode is brought to you by... Ever wish your company updates could be less "quarterly earnings report" and more "late-night talk show"? At Pelaccio & Partners, we're revolutionizing internal communications with podcasts that employees actually want to listen to. Imagine podcast episodes that make your employees laugh while staying informed. Our founder, Jeff Pelaccio, doesn't just create podcasts; he creates conversations that break through the noise. Whether you're a growing startup or a massive corporation, we turn your company's story into audio gold. Leadership becomes human. Remote teams feel connected. Your message cuts through the clutter. Jeff is happy to share his insights on improving your culture, increasing employee engagement, and retention. You can contact him via LinkedIn or schedule a Zoom call via this link - 15-minute call with Jeff.   About Claude: Claude Silver is the world’s first Chief Heart Officer at VaynerX, where she’s redefining leadership with empathy, emotional intelligence, and heart. Her mission: create cultures where people feel safe enough to be themselves and brave enough to grow. As a speaker, podcaster, and LinkedIn voice on modern leadership, Claude inspires leaders to lead with humanity and proves that belonging fuels performance. During her tenure, Vayner has scaled from 400 to 2,000 people across 11 countries. She also helped lead VaynerMedia to win Adweek’s 2022 “Breakthrough Agency of the Year.” Claude was once told she “thinks too much with her heart.” Today, she calls that emotional optimism, and it’s her leadership superpower. Her path hasn’t followed a script. Claude founded an outdoor adventure and surf company in San Francisco, became an Outward Bound instructor, and immersed herself in transpersonal psychology, Buddhist teachings, and the study of human potential. Before joining Vayner, she held executive roles at global advertising agencies, including JWT London, JWT San Francisco, and Publicis. Claude has been honored with Campaign US’s Female Frontier Award, Adweek’s “Changing the Game” Award, and Adweek’s 2025 Mother of the Year. She’s been featured in The New York Times, Forbes, Fast Company, Inc., and The Wall Street Journal, and regularly speaks on stages around the world about culture, emotional leadership, and the future of work.    

Kristina and Matt Loftus two of the three co-founders of Rhoback are partners in life and in business. As the first married couple to appear together on The Corporate Couch, they share how a college friendship, a Rhodesian Ridgeback named Bunker, and a camper full of polo shirts became the foundation for one of the fastest-growing activewear brands in the country. In this conversation, we cover: How Rhoback was born during business school brainstorming sessions and inspired by their high-energy dog, Bunker. The early “Under Armour meets Vineyard Vines” vision that shaped their brand (and using ignorance as a superpower). How Kristina learned Shopify, coding, and Photoshop to build the business from scratch while selling gear up and down the East Coast in a camper. The lessons of humility and grit that carried them through tough startup years, including one memorable highway surfboard incident. How they’re building a family, a company, and a culture rooted in partnership not ego. From golf stories with Steph Curry to guerrilla marketing stunts on Nantucket, the Loftuses bring humor, authenticity, and hustle to every chapter of Rhoback’s journey. This episode is a masterclass in teamwork, trust, and building something meaningful together.   This episode is brought to you by... Ever wish your company updates could be less "quarterly earnings report" and more "late-night talk show"? At Pelaccio & Partners, we're revolutionizing internal communications with podcasts that employees actually want to listen to. Imagine podcast episodes that make your employees laugh while staying informed. Our founder, Jeff Pelaccio, doesn't just create podcasts; he creates conversations that break through the noise. Whether you're a growing startup or a massive corporation, we turn your company's story into audio gold. Leadership becomes human. Remote teams feel connected. Your message cuts through the clutter. Jeff is happy to share his insights on improving your culture, increasing employee engagement, and retention. You can contact him via LinkedIn or schedule a Zoom call via this link - 15-minute call with Jeff.   To learn more about Rhoback, Kristina, and Matt: Rhoback: https://rhoback.com/pages/our-story Kristina: linkedin.com/in/kristina-loftus-638a9222 Matt: linkedin.com/in/matthew-loftus-91b92721

Kelly Byrnes (see her bio below) has built a career helping leaders strengthen organizations from the inside out. As the Founder and CEO of Voyage Consulting Group—and a former Chief Talent Officer, professor, and author—she’s spent decades guiding executives through the intersections of culture, leadership, and change. In this conversation, Kelly shares: The surprising lessons she learned from her improv training in Chicago (and how it helps in the boardroom). Why the best leaders still send handwritten notes and how authentic connection drives business success. How her early days at Sprint (T-Mobile) shaped her passion for culture and leadership. Why companies can’t “buy” culture with perks and technology, it has to be built intentionally. Her take on AI’s role in leadership, teaching, and the future of work. From stories about making cookies for coworkers at 2 a.m. to helping executives uncover what’s really driving (or derailing) performance, Kelly blends warmth, wisdom, and wit. She reminds us that culture isn’t an initiative; it’s the outcome of how people treat each other every day.   This episode is brought to you by... Ever wish your company updates could be less "quarterly earnings report" and more "late-night talk show"? At Pelaccio & Partners, we're revolutionizing internal communications with podcasts that employees actually want to listen to. Imagine podcast episodes that make your employees laugh while staying informed. Our founder, Jeff Pelaccio, doesn't just create podcasts; he creates conversations that break through the noise. Whether you're a growing startup or a massive corporation, we turn your company's story into audio gold. Leadership becomes human. Remote teams feel connected. Your message cuts through the clutter. Jeff is happy to share his insights on improving your culture, increasing employee engagement, and retention. You can contact him via LinkedIn or schedule a Zoom call via this link - 15-minute call with Jeff.   About Kelly: Kelly Byrnes is the Founder and CEO of Voyage Consulting Group, helping leaders strengthen their organizations through culture and talent strategy. A former Chief Talent Officer and MBA professor at Rockhurst University, she's advised 75+ organizations and coached 200+ executives. Kelly co-founded Culture Matters, hosts the Leadership Book of the Month broadcast, and recently released The Basics of Gen AI: The Essential Guide for Business Leaders and Professionals. Her work has been featured in Harvard Business Review, The Wall Street Journal, and Forbes. She was named one of the region's Most Influential Women and inducted into the Kansas City Business Hall of Fame.

In this bonus edition of The Corporate Couch, recorded live at the Heartland Digital Asset Exchange conference, we explore the intersection of blockchain and traditional finance. Join us as we delve into the insights of seven distinguished leaders in digital assets and Web3, including: - Esther George, former president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City - Danny Baer, Director of Wealth and Asset Management at Meanwhile - - John Squire, General Partner at Blockchange Ventures - Anthony Bassili, President of Coinbase Asset Management - Michael Cantu, Managing Director of Stellar Forge Capital - Gary Cardone, Managing Partner of Card1 Digital Ventures - Heidi Lehman, Founder of Heartland Digital Asset Exchange. Discover how these pioneers are shaping the future of finance and what it means for the average investor. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on innovation, regulation, and the evolving landscape of digital assets.   This episode is brought to you by... Ever wish your company updates could be less "quarterly earnings report" and more "late-night talk show"? At Pelaccio & Partners, we're revolutionizing internal communications with podcasts that employees actually want to listen to. Imagine podcast episodes that make your employees laugh while staying informed. Our founder, Jeff Pelaccio, doesn't just create podcasts; he creates conversations that break through the noise. Whether you're a growing startup or a massive corporation, we turn your company's story into audio gold. Leadership becomes human. Remote teams feel connected. Your message cuts through the clutter. Jeff is happy to share his insights on improving your culture, increasing employee engagement, and retention with you. You can contact him via LinkedIn or schedule a Zoom call via this link - 15-minute call with Jeff.

Some companies are born in boardrooms. Others, like Bungii, start over beers at a college bar. Ben Jackson (see his bio below), co-founder and CEO of Bungii, was a college senior at Kansas State when he and a friend came up with a simple idea: “tap a button, get a truck.” Nearly a decade later, that idea has grown into a breakthrough last-mile delivery platform dubbed “DoorDash for big and bulky items.” Under Ben’s leadership, Bungii has expanded into more than 90 major U.S. metros, forged partnerships with Walmart and Best Buy, and earned him recognition on Forbes 30 Under 30 and as an Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year. In this episode, Ben shares: How a text from a friend, a beat-up Ford Ranger, and a "Nancy" cocktail in Kansas State's Aggieville started it all. The painful (and hilarious) early lessons of raising capital and building an app from scratch. How COVID nearly crushed the company and how quick thinking and grit turned crisis into growth. Why he believes persistence and curiosity matter more than IQ. How he balances being a husband, dad of three, and CEO of a fast-growing logistics company. From the chaos of college start-up life to the discipline of scaling a national brand, Ben’s story is equal parts entrepreneurial rollercoaster and masterclass in resilience.   This episode is brought to you by... Ever wish your company updates could be less "quarterly earnings report" and more "late-night talk show"? At Pelaccio & Partners, we're revolutionizing internal communications with podcasts that employees actually want to listen to. Imagine podcast episodes that make your employees laugh while staying informed. Our founder, Jeff Pelaccio, doesn't just create podcasts; he creates conversations that break through the noise. Whether you're a growing startup or a massive corporation, we turn your company's story into audio gold. Leadership becomes human. Remote teams feel connected. Your message cuts through the clutter. Jeff is happy to share his insights on podcasting with you. You can contact him via LinkedIn or schedule a Zoom call via this link - 15-minute call with Jeff. About Ben: Ben Jackson is the co-founder and CEO of Bungii, a last-mile delivery platform known as “DoorDash for big and bulky items.” But instead of a Prius delivering fast food, Bungii sends pickup trucks hauling items like TVs, tires, pallets, and buckets of paint. Under Ben’s leadership, Bungii has secured partnerships with the nation’s largest retailers and logistics providers and expanded into more than 90 major U.S. metros. His entrepreneurial success has earned recognition from Forbes’ 30 Under 30 and, most recently, the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year award.

Greg Hamann’s (see his bio below) story starts on a Maine farm, stacking hay until 11 p.m. as a 12-year-old, and working in his family’s masonry and concrete business before eventually becoming CEO of a precast company. Along the way, he learned the value of hard work, humility, and the importance of thinking before acting, advice passed down from his father that still guides him today. In this conversation, Greg and I dive into: Lessons from leading a company through the 2008–2009 recession and turning it around. Why scaling a business shouldn’t mean “losing your soul” and how to do it differently. The role of Predictive Index assessments in leadership, hiring, and even M&A deals. How generational shifts are reshaping manufacturing and why younger workers value freedom of time as much as money. His new venture, Bison Biocomposites, and how hemp-based products could change the construction industry. From leadership lessons to innovation in concrete (and beyond), Greg brings real-world grit and executive-level insight, reminding us that at every stage, whether you’re baling hay, running a plant, or advising private equity groups, it’s still all about people.   This episode is brought to you by... Ever wish your company updates could be less "quarterly earnings report" and more "late-night talk show"? At Pelaccio & Partners, we're revolutionizing internal communications with podcasts that employees actually want to listen to. Imagine podcast episodes that make your employees laugh while staying informed. Our founder, Jeff Pelaccio, doesn't just create podcasts; he creates conversations that break through the noise. Whether you're a growing startup or a massive corporation, we turn your company's story into audio gold. Leadership becomes human. Remote teams feel connected. Your message cuts through the clutter. Jeff is happy to share his insights on podcasting with you. You can contact him via LinkedIn or schedule a Zoom call via this link - 15-minute call with Jeff.   About Greg: Greg Hamann- entrepreneur, executive advisor, and founder of Truliance Consulting. Greg grew up working on a Maine farm and in his family’s concrete & masonry business, later leading and selling a precast company before launching his own advisory firm. Today, he works with manufacturers and private equity groups on everything from strategy and leadership to M&A and plant modernization. He’s also a board member and co-owner at Bison Biocomposities, a fast-growing green construction materials company pushing carbon-negative innovations into the market. Greg brings real-world grit and executive-level insight to every table he sits at.

In this special edition, the spotlight is on Marc Shaffer and his debut book, One For All: How to Systemize Kindness, Grow Your Network, and Support Others Like It’s Your Job. With the official launch set for September 30, Marc shares the inspiration behind the book, the process of bringing it to life, and the lessons he hopes readers will take away. We talk about: Why relationship-building shouldn’t be an afterthought and how to make it a daily habit. The Irish proverb that captures the spirit of the book: “You hand it out in slices, and it comes back in loaves.” Why “follow-through” is one of the most underrated (and underused) skills in business. How mentoring younger professionals, like those on his own team, shaped the writing process. The role of systems in making generosity and connection sustainable, not sporadic. From stories of mentorship and community building to practical templates and takeaways, Marc’s book and this conversation offer a blueprint for anyone who wants to build authentic relationships and pay kindness forward in business and in life.   This episode is brought to you by Searcy Financial. Your financial future begins with a simple question: Where do you want to be? At Searcy Financial, we help successful individuals and families through our mission to simplify your financial journey, empowering you to enjoy life and wealth on your terms. The question sparks a conversation that goes beyond numbers, helping us understand what truly matters to you and the kind of financial plan that aligns with your life goals. It also allows us to identify potential challenges and opportunities so we can proactively address them. The outcome is a plan that empowers you to acquire, grow, and preserve your wealth. Searcy Financial is gearing up to celebrate 50 years of service. Don’t miss out on any of the excitement! To sign up for information on Marc’s book, “One for All,” including where to buy and exclusive website content, or to sign up for the Searcy Financial Wealth Matters email newsletter, use the links below: - Marc's Book "One for All": Keep Me Updated! - "Wealth Matters" newsletter: Sign Me Up!

Julie Kratz’s career (see her bio below) has been defined by one central question: How can leaders create workplaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued? After spending 12 years in Corporate America—and often feeling like she didn’t belong—Julie pivoted to build a career around allyship and inclusion. Today, she’s a leading voice on what it takes to create cultures of belonging, authoring seven books and founding International Allyship Day. In this conversation, Julie and I explore: How early career experiences at Caterpillar and in consulting shaped her perspective on leadership and inclusion. Why COVID both accelerated and complicated conversations around allyship. The “roller coaster” of DEI work and how organizations can move from good intentions to lasting systems of change. Her candid take on hiring practices, bias, and what truly creates equitable opportunities. Insights from her new book, We Want You: An Allyship Guide for People with Power, are a call to action for those in leadership roles to engage fully in creating inclusive cultures. From her Buckeye roots to becoming a nationally recognized author, speaker, and professor, Julie shares hard-earned lessons, fresh data, and practical tools for leaders who want to navigate today’s multi-generational, diverse workforce with courage and care.   This episode is brought to you by... Ever wish your company updates could be less "quarterly earnings report" and more "late-night talk show"? At Pelaccio & Partners, we're revolutionizing internal communications with podcasts that employees actually want to listen to. Imagine podcast episodes that make your employees laugh while staying informed. Our founder, Jeff Pelaccio, doesn't just create podcasts; he creates conversations that break through the noise. Whether you're a growing startup or a massive corporation, we turn your company's story into audio gold. Leadership becomes human. Remote teams feel connected. Your message cuts through the clutter. Jeff is happy to share his insights on podcasting with you. You can contact him via LinkedIn or schedule a Zoom call via this link - 15-minute call with Jeff.   About Julie: Julie Kratz has dedicated her career to allyship and inclusion. After spending 12 years in Corporate America, experiencing many career “pivot points,” due to her own lack of belonging, she started her own speaking business with the goal of helping leaders be better allies. Promoting allyship in the workplace, she helps organizations foster more inclusive environments so that everyone can feel seen, heard, and belong.  Julie is a professor at the Indiana University Kelley School of Business, hosts a regular Forbes column on allyship, is a frequent keynote speaker, podcast host, and TEDx speaker. She is also the creator of the Lead Like an Ally training program and the Founder of the annual International Allyship Day program in NYC.  She holds an MBA, is a Certified Master Coach, and is a certified unconscious bias and psychological safety trainer. Julie is the author of 7 books, including We Want You: An Allyship Guide for People with Power, Allyship in Action: 10 Practices for Living Inclusively, The Little Allies children’s book, and more.

Sabina Nawaz (see her bio below) has advised leaders at the very top - Bill Gates, Steve Ballmer, and executives across Fortune 500 companies. But her journey wasn’t a straight line. Starting as a software developer, nearly getting fired from Microsoft, and then pivoting into leadership development, Sabina has built a career helping thousands of leaders around the world discover what it really means to lead. In our conversation, she shares: Why pressure, not power, is the real force that corrupts leaders. How her sabbatical at Microsoft led to a life-changing career shift. The story behind her new book, You’re the Boss, and the lessons drawn from 12,000 pages of executive feedback. The surprising role theater and even stunt fighting played in shaping her leadership skills. Why integrity matters more than authenticity and how busyness has become one of the biggest traps for managers. Sabina also introduces practical tools like the “Yes List” and “Micro Habits,” making leadership development actionable instead of theoretical. Her insights are candid, data-driven, and deeply human—a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t about titles, it’s about impact.   This episode is brought to you by... Ever wish your company updates could be less "quarterly earnings report" and more "late-night talk show"? At Pelaccio & Partners, we're revolutionizing internal communications with podcasts that employees actually want to listen to. Imagine podcast episodes that make your employees laugh while staying informed. Our founder, Jeff Pelaccio, doesn't just create podcasts; he creates conversations that break through the noise. Whether you're a growing startup or a massive corporation, we turn your company's story into audio gold. Leadership becomes human. Remote teams feel connected. Your message cuts through the clutter. Jeff is happy to share his insights on podcasting with you. You can contact him via LinkedIn or schedule a Zoom call via this link - 15-minute call with Jeff.   About Sabina: Sabina Nawaz is an elite executive coach who advises C-level executives and teams at Fortune 500 corporations, government agencies, nonprofits, and academic institutions around the world. Sabina routinely gives speeches each year and teaches faculty at Northeastern and Drexel Universities. During her fourteen-year tenure at Microsoft, she went from managing software development teams to leading the company’s executive development and succession planning efforts for over 11,000 managers and nearly a thousand executives, advising Bill Gates and Steve Ballmer directly. She has written for and been featured in Harvard Business Review, Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Inc., Fast Company, NBC, Nasdaq, and MarketWatch.  

Michael Mackie is back on The Corporate Couch, and this time, he’s here to talk about his brand-new book, You Have 4 Minutes: My Life as an Unlikely Celebrity Interviewer. With more than three decades of encounters with Hollywood’s biggest names, Michael shares the hilarity, awkwardness, and unforgettable moments that shaped his unlikely path into entertainment journalism. We cover the accidental purple cover photo, why the book has exactly 52 chapters (hint: the B-52s), and what it was like to land a foreword written by Cindy Wilson herself. Michael also opens up about his sobriety journey, giving up sugar for a year, surviving a stroke, and how discipline shaped his writing process (at one point cranking out a chapter a day). Of course, it wouldn’t be a Mackie story without laugh-out-loud moments, like a wrestler’s ill-timed digestive mishap or asking Anna Nicole Smith, “When was the War of 1812?” Michael brings the same mix of humor, humility, and heart to this conversation that he brings to the pages of his book. Whether you’re fascinated by celebrity culture, curious about resilience, or just in need of a good laugh, this episode is the perfect preview of a book that’s as bite-sized and bingeable as it is heartfelt. Here is the Amazon Link for Michael's book: https://a.co/d/225B7C7.   This episode is brought to you by... Ever wish your company updates could be less "quarterly earnings report" and more "late-night talk show"? At Pelaccio & Partners, we're revolutionizing internal communications with podcasts that employees actually want to listen to. Imagine podcast episodes that make your employees laugh while staying informed. Our founder, Jeff Pelaccio, doesn't just create podcasts; he creates conversations that break through the noise. Whether you're a growing startup or a massive corporation, we turn your company's story into audio gold. Leadership becomes human. Remote teams feel connected. Your message cuts through the clutter. Jeff is happy to share his insights on podcasting with you. You can contact him via LinkedIn or schedule a Zoom call via this link - 15-minute call with Jeff.

Rusty Arnold’s story (see his bio below) begins with a hammer in hand at age 10 and a forklift under his control by 13. Today, as COO and soon-to-be CEO of Frontier Forest Products, Rusty has built his career from the ground up, shaping not just businesses but also the people around him. In this conversation, Rusty shares: Lessons learned from growing up on construction sites and how they shaped his work ethic. Why curiosity and a love of people have been the through-line in his career. His “Web of Success” philosophy for helping employees grow in their own unique ways. How human connection is being lost in business and why it’s still the secret to long-term success. His perspective on leadership in today’s multigenerational, tech-driven workplace. From high school parties with 400 guests to thoughtful reflections on servant leadership, Rusty brings both humor and wisdom. This is a conversation about grit, growth, and grounding leadership in relationships that last.   This episode is brought to you by... Ever wish your company updates could be less "quarterly earnings report" and more "late-night talk show"? At Pelaccio & Partners, we're revolutionizing internal communications with podcasts that employees actually want to listen to. Imagine podcast episodes that make your employees laugh while staying informed. Our founder, Jeff Pelaccio, doesn't just create podcasts; he creates conversations that break through the noise. Whether you're a growing startup or a massive corporation, we turn your company's story into audio gold. Leadership becomes human. Remote teams feel connected. Your message cuts through the clutter. Jeff is happy to share his insights on podcasting with you. You can contact him via LinkedIn or schedule a Zoom call via this link - 15-minute call with Jeff.   About ​Rusty: ​Rusty Arnold is the current COO and soon-to-be CEO of Frontier Forest Products, where he’s been helping grow the business from the inside out for nearly a decade. Starting in construction at age 10 and managing job sites by 13, Rusty’s built his career from the ground up literally. He’s done it all, from swinging a hammer to trading commodity lumber and leading teams across the building materials industry. Since joining Frontier in 2015, he’s become a co-owner (10%) and has been instrumental in expanding the company’s footprint. When his buyout is complete in late 2025, Rusty will officially assume the role of CEO, continuing his mission of servant leadership, strong customer relationships, and steady, strategic growth. Outside of work, Rusty is a creative and adventurous soul; he welds, builds, hikes, mountain bikes, practices yoga, and loves live music. He’s also developing a podcast to help students find their passions and purpose. But at the center of it all is family, his wife Tiffany and their three amazing kids, Vera, Beck, and Olivia.

For the first time in history, four generations, Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z are working side by side. Jeff Utecht (see his bio below) has spent over 20 years helping leaders bridge these divides, and he brings a global perspective shaped by living in three countries, founding multiple businesses, and consulting with Fortune 500 companies. In our conversation, Jeff and I explore: How each generation views work, success, and leadership differently Why skill-based hiring is overtaking degree-based hiring The long-term effects of the 2008 recession on Millennials and Gen Z How COVID accelerated the shift toward remote and fractional work Why embracing generative AI is the next essential leadership skill Jeff’s insights are both practical and forward-looking, reminding us that thriving in the future of work means embracing diversity of age, thought, and technology.    This episode is brought to you by... Ever wish your company updates could be less "quarterly earnings report" and more "late-night talk show"? At Pelaccio & Partners, we're revolutionizing internal communications with podcasts that employees actually want to listen to. Imagine podcast episodes that make your employees laugh while staying informed. Our founder, Jeff Pelaccio, doesn't just create podcasts; he creates conversations that break through the noise. Whether you're a growing startup or a massive corporation, we turn your company's story into audio gold. Leadership becomes human. Remote teams feel connected. Your message cuts through the clutter. Jeff is happy to share his insights on podcasting with you. You can contact him via LinkedIn or schedule a Zoom call via this link - 15-minute call with Jeff.   About ​Jeff: ​Jeff Utecht​ is a global consultant, entrepreneur, and expert in generational leadership and generative AI. With a career spanning over 20 years, Jeff has worked with organizations around the world to bridge generational divides and foster thriving workplaces. A Gen Xer with firsthand experience teaching Millennials and Gen Zers, Jeff brings a unique perspective on how the four generations in today’s workforce can collaborate effectively. His work has supported Fortune 500 companies, helped create onboarding programs, and guided leaders to embrace the evolving definitions of work, success, and engagement. With experience living in three countries, founding multiple businesses, and presenting at global forums like the UN, Jeff is here to inspire us to rethink leadership in a multigenerational workplace that is ever evolving.  

Six months, six happy-hour-type conversations and we’re just getting started. In this special edition of It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere, Marc Shaffer and I pour a couple of beers and dive into what’s been on our minds lately: The “five types of wealth” and why time wealth may be the most overlooked. How boredom, stillness, and slowing down fuel creativity and joy. The wisdom in quotes that stick from Ryan Holiday to Seth Godin to Lao Tzu. Why it’s okay to stop “optimizing” and just enjoy the moment. The value of connecting with new people (and how a 10-question icebreaker can spark great conversations). We also swap stories about golf outings, charity cooking classes, and rediscovering the joy in everyday connections. This one’s about savoring life’s crooked turns, honoring what matters most, and remembering that the best ideas often come when you step away from your to-do list. Pull up a chair (and maybe a drink), it’s always 5 o’clock somewhere.   This episode is brought to you by Searcy Financial. Your financial future begins with a simple question: Where do you want to be? At Searcy Financial, we help successful individuals and families through our mission to simplify your financial journey, empowering you to enjoy life and wealth on your terms. The question sparks a conversation that goes beyond numbers, helping us understand what truly matters to you and the kind of financial plan that aligns with your life goals. It also allows us to identify potential challenges and opportunities so we can proactively address them. The outcome is a plan that empowers you to acquire, grow, and preserve your wealth.   If you would like to sign up to be notified of updates on Marc's “One for All” book, including the release date, or to sign up for the Searcy Financial Wealth Matters email newsletter, use the links below:   ​- Marc's Book "One for All": Keep Me Updated!   - "Wealth Matters" newsletter: Sign Me Up!

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Donna Griffit (see her bio below), world-renowned storyteller and pitch alchemist who has helped clients raise over 2 billion dollars through the power of compelling narratives. From starting her first business as a seven-year-old clown to becoming a communications coach at Stanford's Graduate School of Business, Donna shares her fascinating journey through drama therapy, corporate training, and ultimately finding her calling in the startup world during the 2008 recession. In this episode, Donna reveals the common mistakes entrepreneurs make when pitching, why excitement and fear are essentially the same thing with different branding, and how she created an AI version of herself to analyze investor pitch decks. She discusses her book "Sticking to My Story," shares memorable moments from training sessions around the globe, and explains why the deepest human wish is simply to be seen and acknowledged. Whether you're preparing for your first job interview, leading a team, or pitching your next big idea, this conversation is packed with practical insights about communication, storytelling, and finding your professional Ikigai (that sweet spot where what you love, what you're good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for all intersect).    

In this Special Edition (short) episode, I sit down with Jourdan Mercurio Lewis, COO of Blue Ocean Search Firm, to talk about her remarkable journey from business owner to stay-at-home mom to a new career in recruiting. Jourdan shares how she brings authenticity and consulting-style depth to an industry often known for transactional relationships. Her story highlights the courage to pivot, the value of adding humanness to work, and the lessons learned from redefining success. Along the way, Jourdan answered important questions, including: What made recruiting attractive to her, given her past career history? How does she see the recruiting industry today versus the way she and her team operate? Why does Blue Ocean position itself as recruiting consultants? What sets them apart from the traditional recruiter reputation? What trends does she see shaping recruiting in the next 2–3 years? This 19-minute conversation is both personal and professional, showing how career detours can lead to more meaningful paths forward.   This episode brought to you by... In today’s hiring world, finding top-tier talent can be extremely difficult. How do you want to differentiate your company in a highly competitive search pool? Do you want to fish in a crowded Red Ocean or stand out in a bright blue one? At Blue Ocean Search Firm, we empower visionary leaders with breakthrough hiring strategies, proprietary technology, and trusted partnerships to build transformational teams – all while maintaining the human element.  As a Corporate Couch listener, you receive 50% savings on Blue Ocean Talent Acquisition fees. Contact Blue Ocean Search Firm Here and mention "The Corporate Couch". To learn more about Jourdan, please visit their website: About Us.

Join me as I sit down with John Mercurio (see his bio below), CEO of Blue Ocean Search Firm and a 30-year veteran of the human and animal health industries. In this candid conversation, John shares his remarkable journey from making $17,000 at Deluxe Check Printers to becoming a successful executive, all without finishing college. John opens up about the pivotal moment when someone took a chance on him despite lacking the "required" degree, launching a career that would span Fortune 500 companies like Alcon and Bausch & Lomb. He discusses his transition from human health to falling in love with the animal health industry, his entrepreneurial ventures, including a barbershop with his daughter, and ultimately founding Blue Ocean Search Firm at age 62. This episode tackles the outdated hiring practices that still plague many companies, where talented candidates are eliminated in final rounds simply for lacking a diploma. John and Jeff dive deep into why cultural fit and authentic talent should matter more than credentials, and how modern recruiting technology combined with human insight can identify the best candidates, whether they're actively looking or not. You'll also hear John's passionate take on bringing decency back to the hiring process, his advice for new graduates and first-time leaders, and why the entrepreneurial mindset he showed in fifth grade (selling gum to classmates) has been the real driver of his success. Whether you're a hiring manager, job seeker, or someone who believes talent comes in many forms, this conversation will challenge how you think about credentials versus capability in today's evolving workplace.   This episode is brought to you by... Ever wish your company updates could be less "quarterly earnings report" and more "late-night talk show"? At Pelaccio & Partners, we're revolutionizing internal communications with podcasts that employees actually want to listen to. Imagine podcast episodes that make your employees laugh while staying informed. Our founder, Jeff Pelaccio, doesn't just create podcasts; he creates conversations that break through the noise. Whether you're a growing startup or a massive corporation, we turn your company's story into audio gold. Leadership becomes human. Remote teams feel connected. Your message cuts through the clutter. Jeff is happy to share his insights on podcasting with you. You can contact him via LinkedIn or schedule a Zoom call via this link - 15-minute call with Jeff.   About ​John: John Mercurio is the CEO of Blue Ocean Search Firm and a seasoned leader with over 30 years of experience spanning the human and animal health industries. His career began in ophthalmology sales with a Fortune 500 company, where he earned multiple President’s Club and Salesperson of the Year honors. From 2008 to 2024, John held key roles in the animal health sector, including Vice President, Chief Commercial Officer, and Director of Business Development, developing high-performing teams across sales, management, and executive leadership. Driven by a passion for talent development and strategic growth, John launched Blue Ocean Search Firm to help organizations optimize their recruiting systems and build exceptional teams. Outside of work, John is a proud husband, father of four daughters, and grandfather to four. He enjoys time with family, cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs, and playing pickleball.

In this 20-minute special edition, I welcome back my very first podcast guest, Harry Campbell (Website), for a candid and heartfelt conversation about his Get-Real Mindset for Caregivers. Harry shares the deeply personal journey of supporting his wife, Kris, who was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor just 10 months after their wedding. Drawing from his leadership experience and his bestselling book Get Real Mindset, Harry outlines his three-step framework, Absorb, Assess, Adjust, for facing life’s unexpected challenges. We discuss the traits that make great caregivers, the mental battles of “Why me?” and FOMO, and the importance of optimism grounded in reality. Harry also opens up about his own Parkinson’s diagnosis, how he’s managing it, and the role of compartmentalization in balancing caregiving, parenting, and professional leadership. Whether you’re a caregiver yourself or simply navigating life’s twists and turns, Harry’s wisdom offers both comfort and practical guidance.   To book Harry to speak on caregiving or leadership (100% of his gross speaking fees and book proceeds go to Head for the Cure - see below), go to: https://www.harryscampbell.com/contact   Here's the link to register for the August Kansas City event and/or donate to Head for the Cure via Team Kris Campbell:   https://impact.headforthecure.org/team/626570/