In this episode of Training Unleashed, host Evan Hackel sits down with Jake Thompson, founder of Compete Every Day, to explore the power of mindset, resilience, and competition in achieving success. Jake shares insights on how adopting a competitive mentality can help individuals and teams push past obstacles, stay motivated, and reach their full potential. The conversation dives into strategies for personal and professional growth, the importance of daily habits, and how leaders can inspire a winning culture. Jake also discusses real-world examples of perseverance and provides actionable takeaways to help viewers stay focused on their goals. Don’t miss this motivating discussion filled with lessons on discipline, leadership, and high-performance habits!

Key Topics Discussed:

• The Power of a Competitive Mindset – How embracing competition can drive personal and professional success.
• Building Resilience – Overcoming obstacles and staying motivated in challenging times.
• Leadership and High-Performance Habits – Key strategies for inspiring teams and fostering a winning culture.
• Daily Practices for Success – Small, consistent actions that lead to long-term growth.
• The Role of Mindset in Achieving Goals – How shifting perspectives can transform results.
• Lessons from Real-World Experiences – Stories of perseverance and growth from Jake Thompson’s journey.

About Our Guest

“Hi, I’m Jake. I teach people how to compete every day with themselves. By winning the day, we win in business and in life.

Through lived experiences as an athlete, entrepreneur and speaker, I’ve battle-tested and mastered the secret to success. To achieving goals and making the impossible, possible. To being great, not just good enough.

From my first ‘sales job’ at 7, going door-to-door selling Christmas cookies, to my initial business selling branded t-shirts in the trunk of my car, and onto today, as a leading keynote speaker and corporate coach, I’ve unlocked what it takes to be a winner.

The life we desire is closer than we think. It’s the small shifts in our daily focus, mentally and practically, that build a winning life.

Through my C.E.D. Model, I help teams, CEOs, athletes and students develop mental toughness, master consistency, and improve day after day.
We all have a gift inside of us, but it takes courage, systems, and a competitive mindset to access it. I’ll show you how, so you’re not sitting on the bench, waiting for life.”

How to Connect:

• • Website: jakethompson
  • LinkedIn: Jake Thompson

In this episode of Training Unleashed, host Evan Hackel engages with Brad Federman, CEO of Performance Point, to discuss the transformative power of workplace culture and its impact on organizational success. They delve into strategies for aligning culture with customer needs, fostering employee engagement, and driving leadership excellence. Brad shares actionable insights, including real-world examples of cultural integration post-merger and leveraging AI tools for enhancing cultural alignment. Discover how a strong, intentional culture can stabilize organizations, empower employees, and improve customer loyalty. Don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation packed with valuable lessons for any leader!

Key Topics Discussed:

• Culture as a Stabilizing Force: Company culture acts as a stabilizing force, especially in times of change, by providing a shared set of norms, values, and behaviors that bind employees together.
• Intentional Culture Development: It is crucial for companies to proactively shape their desired culture, rather than letting it develop organically, as every organization has a culture, whether intentional or not.
• Aligning Culture with Customer Experience: Aligning company culture with the brand promise and customer experience is essential for consistent and positive outcomes.
• Merging Cultures: When merging multiple companies, the focus should be on building a new culture around the customer, rather than imposing one company’s culture on the others.
• Implementing Cultural Change: Effective implementation of a new culture requires educating leadership, training champions, and continuously reinforcing the culture through activities, conversations, and aligning systems and processes.
• AI for Culture Assessment and Reinforcement: AI can be a powerful tool for assessing and reinforcing company culture, but it must be used responsibly to support productivity and employee well-being, not replace people.
• Adapting to Technological Change: The future of work will require more proactive career development and lifelong learning as technological changes accelerate.

About Our Guest

Brad Federman – Every day, people wake up and trudge to work, resentfully working at a company that falls short of its promises and values. This is a problem, one that Brad has dedicated his career to resolving. He is dedicated to helping organizations engage employees and customers, build resilient and bulwark relationships, as well as creating collaborative and agile cultures.

As he puts it, his job is to ‘help organizations discover and live their possible’.

This mission has followed Brad throughout his career as an international author, speaker, coach, and consultant with more than 25 years of corporate experience.

As the founder of PerformancePoint, Brad works with organizations and leadership in various industries, including household names such as: Nordstrom, FedEx, Embassy Hilton, Mayo Clinic, Deloitte & Touche LLP, and Polo Ralph Lauren Corporation.

Prior to PerformancePoint, Brad was the EVP of Novations Group and has held leadership positions with Accenture and Humana Inc. He is a frequently requested featured speaker at conferences and business meetings worldwide. Some of his literary works include: Employee Engagement: A Roadmap for Creating Profits, Optimizing Performance, and Increasing Loyalty, Cultivating Culture: 101 Ways to Foster Engagement in 15 Minutes or Less, and a contributing author to 101 Ways to Enhance Your Career. Additionally, Brad has also been interviewed for Fox Business News’ John Stossel Show and articles in numerous publications such as American Banker, Fortune Small Business, Los Angeles Times and HR Magazine.

Brad earned his B.A. degree in communications from University of Maryland and a M.Ed. degree in human resource development from Vanderbilt University. He is also the SHRM Memphis President, sits on the Tennessee SHRM State Council, is an advisor for CuesHub, and serves on several boards.

How to Connect:

• • Website: PerformancePoint
  • LinkedIn: Brad Federman

In this episode of Training Unleashed, host Evan Hackel engages with Dirk van Reenen, to explore strategies for achieving constructive communication and driving authentic engagement within teams. They discuss the importance of positivity, collaboration, and fostering real connections to enhance team dynamics and organizational success. Discover actionable insights to overcome challenges, improve communication, and create meaningful change in your organization. Whether you’re a leader, trainer, or professional looking to elevate your team’s performance, this episode provides valuable takeaways to empower you and your team.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Fostering Team Connection: The critical role of meaningful relationships in enhancing team dynamics.
• Turning Challenges into Opportunities: How to create systems that drive growth and innovation.
• Building High-Performing Teams: Proven strategies for mentoring leaders and empowering employees.
• Constructive Communication: Tools and approaches to improve transparency and collaboration within teams.
• Talent Acquisition Excellence: Insights into Dirk’s cutting-edge system for attracting and retaining top-tier talent.

About Our Guest

Dirk van Reenen – Entrepreneur, Trainer and Coach.

Meet Dirk, the visionary founder and CEO behind Merus- Texas’ largest and most dynamic outdoor park, plus several other companies such as BERGflow, Posto Homes, and more. By working with and growing multi-million dollar companies as clients and successfully exiting several of his own, he demonstrates an exceptional knack for building and scaling ventures. Dirk brings a wealth of entrepreneurial expertise and a passion for innovation.

Beyond his impressive entrepreneurial achievements, Dirk’s renowned for his dedication to coaching and training. He has a proven ability to develop and mentor high-performing teams, imparting his deep business acumen and strategic insights to up-and-coming leaders. Currently, Dirk is spearheading the development of a cutting-edge Talent Acquisition System designed to attract and retain top-tier talent, ensuring that companies not only thrive but lead the industry in excellence and creativity by hiring the right people.

How to Connect:

• • Website: BERGflow
  • LinkedIn: Dirk van Reenen
  • Instagram: Dirk van Reenen

In this episode of Training Unleashed, host Evan Hackel sits down with Marley Majcher, CEO of The Party Goddess!, a renowned entrepreneur and business consultant with expertise in maximizing efficiency and profitability. Marley shares her journey from running a successful event planning company to helping businesses and departments streamline operations, reduce inefficiencies, and achieve measurable results.

Learn how to identify what’s holding your team back, prioritize improvements, and implement practical strategies to drive productivity and ROI. Whether you’re leading a training department, managing a business, or working in a nonprofit, Marley’s actionable insights will empower you to work smarter, not harder.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The “Are You Making Any Money?” Mindset: Understanding the difference between running a business and running a profitable business.
• Identifying Inefficiencies: How to uncover bottlenecks and streamline processes for improved productivity.
• Return on Time (ROT): A unique perspective on valuing time as a critical asset.
• Tailored Efficiency Strategies: Matching tasks with employees’ strengths for better results.
• Real-World Solutions: Insights on leveraging technology, tracking time, and optimizing workflows.
• Proactive Training Departments: How training teams can become catalysts for organizational efficiency.
• Practical Steps for Nonprofits: Applying business efficiency principles to nonprofit organizations.

About Our Guest

Marley Majcher, the CEO of The Party Goddess!, a nationally acclaimed full-service event planning and catering company, Marley is known for creating the most talked about parties of the year. Thanks to her unique approach, keen eye for chic trends and clever business techniques, she has produced notable events for the Hollywood Bowl, the Critics’ Choice Awards, Porsche and Bentley, to name but a few. Her client list ranges from top-tier businesses to A-list celebrities such as Gwyneth Paltrow, Snoop Dogg, Sofia Vergara, and Britney Spears. Marley is also a member of the North American Academy of Wedding & Event Planning Advisory Board.

Marley has also established herself as one of the best resources for small business owners and entrepreneurs out there. She is a top business coach in Los Angeles and has received many honors and awards, including the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce Entrepreneur of the Year Award three years in a row and being named Small Businesswoman of the Year by the State of California. She is also a member of the Forbes Los Angeles Business Council. She is the author of But Are You Making Any Money?, a witty and lauded business guide praised by Forbes as “a great how-to book for any entrepreneur.”

In her latest endeavour, Say Yes To Sheep, Marley is taking her passion for animals, agriculture, and the environment and exploring innovative ways to transform undervalued resources into sustainable opportunities. As is Marley’s style, we are talking serious business and effective solutions but with the sense of fun and character of “Clarkson’s Farm” meets American Riviera Orchard.

Marley’s creative genius, popular savvy, and business sense have made her a sought after speaker, co-author, and have earned her appearances on various outlets and shows including “Fox and Friends,” Fox Business, MSNBC, “Extra,” “Good Day LA,” Bravo, E!, MTV, HGTV, FOX, ABC, CBS, NBC and The Wedding Channel. If you are looking for a unique guest for your show – be it on business matters, event or wedding planning, homesteading, or just dealing with major life changes – you need to book Marley now!

How to Connect:

• Website: ThePartyGoddess | TheProfitGoddess
• Instagram: Marley Majcher
• LinkedIn: Marley Majcher

In this episode of Training Unleashed, host Evan Hackel engages in a compelling discussion with Shirley Engelmeier, founder of InclusionINC and a leading voice in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Shirley unpacks the complexities of DEI, dispelling common misconceptions and highlighting its critical role as a strategic business imperative. She shares practical insights into how DEI enhances employee engagement, fosters innovation, and strengthens organizational success, offering listeners a fresh perspective on its business-centric benefits. Discover actionable strategies to effectively integrate DEI into your organization and navigate challenges in today’s evolving workplace.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Understanding DEI Beyond Affirmative Action:
  • Shirley clarifies the distinction between DEI and affirmative action, addressing common misconceptions.
• The Business Case for DEI:
  • Explore the data-driven benefits, including a 25% boost in employee engagement, a 20% rise in innovation, and improved retention rates.
• Overcoming Challenges:
  • Insights into tackling disinformation campaigns and navigating resistance to DEI initiatives.
• Practical Integration of DEI:
  • Learn actionable steps to embed DEI into your organization’s culture and strategy.

About Our Guest

Shirley Engelmeier, founder of InclusionINC, has been a pioneer in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) for over 25 years. Long before DEI became a global focus, she was helping organizations build inclusive cultures to drive business success. Since 2001, Shirley has guided Fortune 500 companies and emerging organizations in developing and implementing DEI initiatives that enhance employee engagement, productivity, and innovation. A passionate advocate for the profitability of DEI, she addresses anti-DEI pushback with extensive research, emphasizing its critical role in modern business strategy. Shirley shares her insights in books for c-suite leaders, aiming to foster truly inclusive workplaces.

How to Connect:

• Website: Inclusion Inc
• LinkedIn: Shirley Engelmeier

In this episode of Training Unleashed, host Evan Hackel sits down with John Leh, CEO of Talented Learning, to explore how cutting-edge technologies like AI and XR are reshaping corporate training. With decades of experience evaluating learning systems, John shares his expert perspective on the future of learning and how organizations can leverage emerging tools to drive business success. Gain actionable insights on personalized learning, adaptive courses, and the evolving role of learning management systems.

John Leh is Founder, CEO and Lead Analyst at Talented Learning and the Talented Learning Center. John is a fiercely independent consultant, blogger, podcaster, speaker and educator who helps organizations select and implement learning technology strategies, primarily for extended enterprise applications. His advice is based upon more than 25+years of learning-tech industry experience, serving as a trusted LMS selection and sales adviser to hundreds of learning organizations with a total technology spend of more than $100+ million and growing. John would love to connect with John or on LinkedIn.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The AI Revolution in Learning:
  • How AI is accelerating content development through automation.
  • Creating personalized learning paths tailored to individual needs.
• XR for Hands-On Training:
  • Using XR for skill-based and safety-critical training.
  • Real-world examples of VR reducing costs and improving learner performance.
• Just-in-Time Learning:
  • Role of AI-powered bots delivering instant, context-aware knowledge.
  • How adaptive learning ensures personalized training for thousands of employees.
• Data-Driven Training Decisions:
  • Tying learning programs directly to business metrics like customer satisfaction, revenue growth, and operational efficiency.
  • Why data analysis and AI-driven reporting are transforming training impact measurement.
• The Future of Learning Systems:
  • The potential end of traditional LMS platforms.
  • Emerging trends in integrating learning with business operations in real time.
• Success Insight – Finding the Right Learning Partner:
  • How Talented Learning’s Right Fit Grid helps organizations identify and evaluate the best learning system providers, saving time and maximizing ROI.

About Our Guest

John Leh is the CEO, Lead Analyst and LMS selection consultant at Talented Learning. He’s a trusted learning tech industry veteran with over 25 years and $100 million-worth of front-line experience in buying and selling complex learning solutions.

Since 2014, John has devoted himself to helping over 100 LMS buyers define their requirements and buy the right learning system for their needs.

How to Connect:

• Website: TALENTEDLEARNING
• LinkedIn: John Leh

In this insightful episode of Training Unleashed, host Evan Hackel sits down with Peter Rahbar, founder of The Rahbar Group and a seasoned workplace legal expert. With nearly two decades of experience, including serving as chief employment attorney for a global media giant, Peter unpacks critical legal issues affecting today’s workforce. From navigating non-compete regulations and managing independent contractors to leveling the playing field for employees, Peter delivers actionable advice for both businesses and professionals. Gain valuable legal insights to protect your career and elevate your organization’s compliance strategy.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Understand Non-Competes: The FTC’s proposed ban on non-compete agreements could reshape U.S. employment practices. Employers should consider alternatives like non-disclosure and non-solicitation agreements.
• Employee Legal Training: Companies should train employees on legal agreements like non-competes and confidentiality clauses to reduce disputes and ensure compliance.
• Managing Independent Contractors: Properly classify contractors, avoid unnecessary control, and consider offering optional training to boost performance while minimizing legal risks.
• Stay Legally Updated: Businesses must regularly update policies and agreements to comply with evolving labor laws and reduce liability.
• Hire the Right Legal Support: Engage experienced, clear-communicating legal counsel to navigate complex employment issues and safeguard your business interests.

About Our Guest

Peter Rahbar is a workplace legal expert who guides clients through the most important decisions of their professional lives. After almost twenty years of representing major international corporate clients in high profile matters, including over a decade as the chief employment attorney for a major global media company, Peter founded The Rahbar Group, a boutique employment law practice based in New York City. Peter specializes in representing individuals, including C-Suite executives, media personalities and other professionals working in finance, media, sports, real estate, fashion and tech.

How to Connect:

• Website: Peter Rahbar
• LinkedIn: Peter Rahbar