Breakfast Leadership Show

Wednesday Wisdom: Changing the Culture of Your Organization

Is your company culture holding you back? Learn how to revolutionize it in just three steps.
Episode Summary:
In this episode, we dive into the critical process of changing organizational culture. We explore the top three steps leaders can take to create meaningful and lasting cultural shifts within their companies. From assessing current culture to implementing new behaviors, we provide actionable insights to help you transform your workplace.
Key Takeaways: [• Step 1 Assess your current organizational culture• Step 2 Define the desired culture and create a plan• Step 3 Implement and reinforce new behaviors
We discuss how to:- Identify the gaps between your current and desired culture- Develop a clear vision for your organization's future- Create strategies to embed new cultural norms- Overcome resistance to change- Measure the success of your cultural transformation efforts
Resources Mentioned:• Link to the full article: https://www.breakfastleadership.com/blog/the-top-three-steps-for-changing-the-culture-of-your-organization• Book recommendation: "The Culture Code" by Daniel Coyle
 If you found this episode valuable, please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. For more leadership insights, visit our website at https://BreakfastLeadership.com 
 

Future of Work Expert Steve Cadigan on Leadership, Talent Strategies & Burnout Solutions | Ex-LinkedIn CHRO

Steve is a top talent strategist and leadership expert with 30+ years of experience. He famously led LinkedIn’s early hyper-growth phase as its first CHRO, building its world-class company culture from scratch and scaling the organization from 400 to 4,000 employees.       
 
As one of the most provocative global thought leaders on the future of work, Steve is hired by top companies and entire countries to help them navigate the talent landscape. His clientele spans from Google, X, Slack, BBC, and Intel to the City of Lisbon, which hired him to develop the startup incubator Unicorn Factory.      
 
His award-winning book Workquake is considered a game changer for leaders and organizations on the future of work in a post-COVID world. He has also written for Forbes and Inc. and will soon write for Business Insider. He frequently appears on Bloomberg and CNBC to discuss the evolving nature of work, talent management, the Big Resignation, and successful leadership.  
 
Steve is a sought-after keynote speaker who has delivered commencement addresses at Stanford and the University of San Francisco. Legacy institutions like Harvard and top VCs and management firms, including Accenture, Deloitte, and McKinsey, regularly ask him for advice.     
 
Quick recap
Summary
Future of Work and Talent Challenges
Michael and Steve discussed the future of work and the challenges leaders face in managing talent. Steve, with over 40 years of experience in human resources, shared his insights on how the work landscape has changed, particularly in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. They both agreed on the importance of their conversation and discussed the challenges organizations are facing in talent acquisition and retention. Steve emphasized that leaders need to understand and adapt to these changes to effectively motivate and retain their employees.
Burnout, Healthcare Challenges, and Enrollment Trends
Michael and Steve discussed the challenges and burnout issues faced by healthcare professionals, particularly during the pandemic. They highlighted the decreasing number of people working in the healthcare field and the unprecedented challenges faced by healthcare systems. Steve noted the significant number of people leaving the education field, indicating a broader failure in these essential professions. They also discussed the challenges faced by the nursing profession, particularly the diminishing influx of talent and the increasing questioning of its brand. Michael agreed, noting similar issues in other industries, such as wastewater and grain elevators, where the younger generation is less interested in pursuing traditional family occupations. They also discussed the impact of decreasing enrollments in nursing schools on the education side, leading to increased costs due to reduced supply.
Addressing Job Market Challenges and Solutions
Michael and Steve discussed the challenges and potential solutions in the current job market. They highlighted the frustration felt by leaders and employees, and the difficulties in retaining talent, especially among younger workers. Steve shared his insights from post-pandemic conversations with leaders, noting that many were surprised by the positive business results despite high turnover rates. They both agreed that the traditional model of long-term employment may no longer be realistic or desirable, and that organizations need to adapt their strategies to attract and retain new talent. They also noted that successful companies like Microsoft and Tesla have managed to thrive with high turnover rates by having effective systems in place.
College Football Coaches' Challenges and Solutions
Steve and Michael discussed the challenges faced by college football coaches, particularly in the current transfer portal environment. Steve used the example of Nick Saban to illustrate the difficulties of recruiting and retaining top talent. Michael emphasized the importance of focusing on what is working and being creative in addressing issues. Both agreed on the need for business leaders to adapt to changing circumstances and to leverage their experience to find solutions.
Perspective, Teamwork, and Conflicting Goals
Michael shared a leadership anecdote about Roger Nirenberg, who uses music to illustrate the importance of perspective and teamwork in organizations. He emphasized the need to understand and appreciate different viewpoints within a team. Steve then discussed the concept of conflicting goals within organizations, using a soccer metaphor to explain that not everyone's objectives align, and this can lead to frustration. Both agreed on the importance of flexibility, agility, and openness to new ideas and perspectives.
Employee Engagement, Communication, and Empathy in the Workplace
Steve and Michael emphasized the importance of robust communication and a human-centric approach in the workplace. They discussed the need for regular performance appraisals and creating an organizational structure that promotes open communication and employee autonomy. They also highlighted the significance of maintaining a positive work environment that fosters employee engagement, creativity, and job satisfaction. Lastly, they underscored the unique value of human empathy and connection in the face of increasing automation and AI in the workplace.
LinkedIn Strategies and Connector Role
Steve and Michael discussed their strategies for using LinkedIn effectively. They stressed the importance of building genuine connections and providing value to others on the platform. Michael clarified his role as a connector, aiming to help individuals meet their obligations and goals.
 

Unlocking Success with Emotional Intelligence: A Conversation with Business Psychologist Dr. Robin Hills

Dr. Robin Hills is a business psychologist and the director of ‘E i 4 Change’.A company specializing in emotional intelligence for change in educationaltraining, coaching, and personal development - focused on emotionalintelligence, positive psychology, and neuroscience.
Recognized as the 'International Impact Company of the Year' by Dotcom Magazine in 2024, our work has been acknowledged for its significant global influence.
With the most comprehensive and detailed courses on emotional intelligence, Robin has taught and empowered more than 400,000 people in more than 195 countries.
He is an accomplished author and keynote speaker.
They were awarded “Best Transformative Emotional Intelligence Coach” - of the Year 2024 by The CIO Times and “Men Leaders to Look Up To” by Passion Vista magazine.
In early 2024, Robin was presented with an Honorary Doctorate in Advanced Studies in Psychology in recognition of his contribution to Emotional Intelligence training.Robins website - https://ei4change.com/Ei-Matters - https://ei-matters.com/https://www.facebook.com/EI4Change/https://twitter.com/Ei4Changehttps://www.linkedin.com/company/ei4change/https://www.instagram.com/ei4change/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBBxGskYxL0wnRfuyz_wHZA/feed
 
Summary
Emotional Intelligence and AI Integration
Michael and Robin, an emotional intelligence coach and trainer, discussed the integration of emotional intelligence with AI. Robin suggested a fresh perspective on emotional intelligence, emphasizing its complementary aspects to AI. Michael agreed, noting the importance of diverse viewpoints in discussions about AI. They planned to delve deeper into this topic during the show, with Robin offering insights from his experience working with senior leaders worldwide. Robin also shared his upcoming training program in the US.
Emotional Intelligence and AI in the Workplace
Michael expressed concern about the lack of coverage of emotional intelligence (Ei) in AI discussions. Robin then provided a clear definition of Ei as the ability to make good decisions and build authentic relationships by being 'smart' with one's emotions. She also discussed the increasing popularity and potential revolutionary impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace, but emphasized that this does not mean humans will become redundant. Instead, she stressed the importance of identifying what differentiates humans from machine technology, specifically Ei.
Technology's Impact on Employment and Job Creation
Michael and Robin discussed the impact of technology on employment and job creation. They both agreed that while new technologies may cause initial concern and job displacement, they also create new opportunities and roles. They highlighted examples of this throughout history, including the advent of rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, and the rise of the internet and digital communication. They emphasized the importance of embracing new technologies and being adaptable to change.
AI and Emotional Intelligence Discussion
Michael discussed his positive experiences with using AI in his work, highlighting its efficiency and creativity benefits. However, Robin pointed out that AI and emotional intelligence (EI) cannot function independently of each other, as AI lacks the human capacity for leadership and building emotional connections. Both emphasized the importance of human experience and memory in navigating through life, contrasting it with the programmed responses of AI. They agreed that AI, while useful, should not replace human leadership and relationship building.
AI, Emotional Intelligence, and Organizational Dynamics
Michael and Robin discussed the potential and limitations of AI and emotional intelligence within an organizational context. Michael emphasized the importance of personalizing instructions for AI to function effectively, while Robin highlighted the inherent limitations of AI to understand and adapt to human emotions and nuances. They both agreed that emotional intelligence is essential for navigating the complexities of the future, and Robin proposed looking at an organization as a network of people, including all stakeholders, for a better understanding of its dynamics.
Emotional Intelligence and Artificial Intelligence Limitations
Robin emphasized the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership and asserted that, despite advancements in artificial intelligence, machines would never possess emotional intelligence due to the unique complexity of the human brain. Michael agreed, acknowledging the potential benefits of artificial intelligence but highlighting its limitations in replicating the human brain's complexity. Both agreed that emotional intelligence would remain a crucial factor in human interactions and leadership.
Emotional Intelligence Collaboration and Networking
Michael and Robin discussed Robin's work on emotional intelligence and her website, EiForChange.com, which offers free resources including a book.

Founder Friday: From Burnout to Breakthrough: Enock & Sue Denis’ Journey to Revolutionizing Homecare with AI Innovation

Sue Denis, the co-founder of HomeCare Bosses United® and the visionary behind the groundbreaking CareGrowth AI™. 
Sue's incredible journey from an ICU nurse facing burnout and personal challenges to becoming a successful entrepreneur and AI innovator in the home care industry is a story of resilience, determination, and transformative leadership. 
Her insights and experiences provide valuable lessons in overcoming adversity, entrepreneurship, and the future of homecare.
Her video introduction: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7PUrpM-Ecuk
Sue's Expertise:
Resilience and Transformation: Sue’s personal and professional journey showcases remarkable resilience. From facing the near-loss of her first son and moving across the country to starting a business with limited resources, Sue’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination.
Innovation in Homecare: As the co-founder of HomeCare Bosses United®, Sue has revolutionized the homecare industry by combining her nursing expertise with her entrepreneurial spirit. Her latest venture, CareGrowth AI™, brings cutting-edge AI technology to homecare agencies, helping them streamline operations and improve care quality.
Empowerment and Education: Sue’s commitment to empowering others is evident through her successful education and consulting business. With a 13k-member Facebook group and numerous events, she has helped countless individuals start and grow their own homecare agencies, transforming lives and communities in the process.
Summary
 
 
Care Growth AI Launch and Home Care Improvement
Michael and Enock & Sue discussed the launch of Care Growth AI, a home care operation software designed to enhance the experience of aging at home. Michael shared his interest in the software, highlighting its potential to fill the home care sector void. Enock & Sue, a former nurse, shared that he and his co-founder Sue developed the platform for their home care agency, drawing from their experiences in the healthcare industry. Both expressed a shared interest in improving home care for an aging population and creating a home environment for those receiving care.
 
 
Enock & Sue's Home Care Agency and Software
Enock & Sue shared their observations about elderly patients returning to the hospital due to a lack of support at home. He identified the need for in-home care services and founded a home care agency in 2016. Enock & Sue also highlighted the challenges his agency faced with existing software for home care agencies, which could have been more cohesive and efficient. In response, they developed Care Growth AI software to streamline their operations and improve care for their clients. The ultimate goal of this software is to reduce human errors, save time, and provide better care.
 
 
Leveraging Technology for Home Care Efficiency
Enock, Sue, and Michael discussed the importance of leveraging technology to streamline administrative tasks in in-home care agencies. Michael highlighted the challenges clinicians face, who spend too much time on paperwork and compliance, leaving little time for patient care. Enock & Sue introduced Carego, an AI-powered assistant that automates administrative tasks, freeing up time for caregivers to focus on patients. They agreed that this technology not only improves efficiency but also enhances the quality of patient care.
 
 
Preparing for Aging Population and Home-Based Care
Michael highlighted the importance of preparing for an aging population and the increasing need for home-based care. He emphasized that people heal faster and feel more comfortable at home, suggesting that society needs to improve its advocacy and preparation for this trend. Enock & Sue agreed, pointing out the financial challenges of home care and the need for long-term care insurance. He also noted that many older adults resist help, suggesting that education is necessary to help them understand that assistance enhances their quality of life.
 
 
Home Care Agencies and Technology Improvements
Enock & Sue: More providers at home care agencies ensure caregivers are trained, insured, and adequately supervised, improving safety and productivity. He pointed out the importance of technology in allowing providers to focus on caregiving while operations are streamlined. Michael stressed the need to recruit new people continuously to meet increasing demand, advising against "growing up" to maintain a youthful attitude.
 
 
Elder Care Platform and Collaboration
Michael expressed his appreciation for Enock & Sue's work in elder care, highlighting the importance of their platform. Enock & Sue informed Michael that more information about their work and upcoming training could be found on their website, caregood.ai. Michael agreed to share this information in his show notes and through his network to help promote their online course. Enock & Sue thanked Michael for his support and advocacy, emphasizing the importance of their mission to make home-based care easier for those in need.
 

Thoughtful Thursdays: From PwC to $50M Impact Investing: Cole Shephard's Journey to Sustainable Coffee Empire

Cole is the Founding Partner of Legacy Group, a leading alternative investment firm with over $50M in assets under management.They focus on profitable investment opportunities with high social and environmental impact in the US and Latin America. Their flagship portfolio company, Green Coffee Company (GCC), is Colombia's #1 largest coffee producer, with 7.2M+ coffee trees planted on 6,372 acres.Cole and his team at GCC aim to grow the company to be the world's largest producer of arabica coffee. They've raised $35M+ from 275+ high-net-worth investors to fund Green Coffee Company operations in Medellin, Colombia.Before forming Legacy Group, Cole spent close to a decade at PwC (the second-largest Professional services network in the world and one of the Big Four accounting firms), working in accounting, advisory, M&A, and consulting across the United States, Bermuda, Hong Kong, and Beijing.He is an expert in emerging markets and understands the capital movements of high-net-worth investors. He is currently based in Medellin, Colombia.
Quick recap
Green Coffee Company's Growth and Michael's Coffee Journey
Cole, the founder and chairman of Green Coffee Company, the largest coffee producer in Colombia, shared the company's growth story from a small investment to becoming a significant player in the industry. A coffee enthusiast, Michael shared his journey of appreciating coffee's flavors and aromas after giving up lactose-containing cream and sugar. Cole explained his interest in the coffee industry, which started after seeing a potential business opportunity in Colombia following his move from Hong Kong. He shared how the company initially focused on high-net-worth investors before expanding with a Professional management team, leading to significant growth.
Curiosity, Hard Work, and Success Stories
Michael emphasized the importance of curiosity, hard work, and seizing opportunities in the consulting field. He shared his delight in hearing success stories, particularly in regions where success is not as expected. He also highlighted the benefits of such achievements for the individual, the local community, and the organization. Michael then asked Cole about his experience navigating different jurisdictions and how he convinced authorities to allow his organization to grow.
Cole's Experiences and Strategies in Emerging Markets
Cole shared his experiences working in emerging markets, emphasizing the importance of being present on the ground and understanding the unique challenges of each market. He discussed his approach to navigating these challenges, which involved using his capital to build teams and identify opportunities, such as trade flows between Asia and Latin America. Michael highlighted the pioneering nature of Cole's work, noting that many of the strategies and platforms he established have yet to be replicated elsewhere. Both agreed on the need for adaptability, resilience, and a willingness to learn from failures to succeed in emerging markets.
Expanding International Trade and Partnerships
Michael and Cole discussed the opportunities and challenges in expanding international trade and developing new business partnerships. Michael emphasized the importance of being bold and capitalizing on new opportunities despite potential obstacles. He also highlighted the significance of risk-taking in improving the world. Cole agreed with Michael's views and was asked to share his predictions for the future of their industry, particularly in Colombia and internationally.
Green Coffee Company Fundraising and Industry Trends
Cole discussed the company's successful fundraising efforts for the Green Coffee Company, highlighting the significant amount of capital raised in the US and its potential to build a dominant industry in Colombia. He noted the trend of high-net-worth investors seeking international exposure, particularly in Latin America, due to its high return profiles and acceptable risks. Cole also predicted the rise of vertical integration in the coffee industry as companies seek to secure their supply chains and improve efficiency. He invited listeners to learn more about the company's activities through its website and LinkedIn pages. Michael agreed with Cole's points and emphasized the importance of localizing supply chains to improve agility and reduce risks.
https://www.greencoffeecompany.com/

Tailored to You: Discovering the Power of Personalized Fashion and Love Activism with Asta Jakubson

- Are you getting stressed & frustrated trying to find the perfect dress for your mum[especially now when is not safe to drive around]?
-Do you want to feel confident & look good in a perfectly tailored suit at your business conferences on Zoom video & make a powerful impact on your colleagues or potential customers?-Are you tired of hearing shop assistants say “ we don’t have that in your size or color to suit your body shape? -Do you want to stop wasting time searching through all the shops trying to find your Mother of the Bride or Groom outfit with a perfectly matched hat?-Do you worry about meeting someone in the same dress at a wedding or special occasion?-Is your wardrobe cluttered with no space from all of the hats you wore to previous weddings or events?-Is your wardrobe full of clothes & yet you say.. “oh I’ve nothing to wear” let’s re style your clothes while saving the environment at the same time-We are here and ready to serve you:*Free Zoom consultation for your custom design-dressmaking /alterations*Free Zoom consultation custom made dress design for mother of the bride/groom, guests ,flower girls.....*tailored suits for business ladies, speakers(includes 20 min free style consultation on choosing the correct style for your body shape )*custom made millinery designs to hire or buy( just send me the photo of your dress,shoes and jewelry)*hire a millinery design for free when you get your outfit custom made *restyling and alterations
 
Quick recap
Summary
Fostering Love and Reducing Negativity
Michael and Asta had a discussion about the importance of love and its activation in their lives. Asta expressed her desire to talk about how to foster love and reduce negativity. Michael agreed with Asta's points and emphasized the urgent need for more love in the world, stating that their conversation would typically last around 20-25 minutes. Both were ready to delve deeper into the topic.
Asta's Journey to Self-Discovery and Fulfillment
Asta shared her journey of overcoming personal struggles to find happiness and fulfillment. She revealed that her father's suicide when she was young had a profound impact on her subconscious and her relationships. Despite this, she became a successful fashion designer and, after 24 years, embarked on a journey of self-discovery through retreats and spiritual learning. This journey led her to find the love she had been seeking within herself, which in turn attracted a fulfilling romantic relationship. She also noted improvements in her business and health.
Asta's Journey to Holistic Fashion Design
Asta and Michael discussed Asta's journey towards holistic fashion design and the integration of love and energy healing into her work. Asta shared how she reconnected with herself, rediscovered her passion for her business, and how her newfound love and energy attracted positive changes in her life, including rekindled romantic relationships and clients who have been with her for over 20 years. Michael commended Asta's ability to tweak her approach while staying true to her passion. Both highlighted the importance of self-love and open-heartedness in fostering connections with others and creating a fulfilling life and career.
The Power of Connection and Empathy
Asta shared a powerful story of how she helped a woman who was on the brink of suicide. She emphasized the importance of human connection and how one positive interaction can have a ripple effect. Michael also highlighted the interconnectedness of life and the impact of individual actions on those around them. Asta further discussed how the Covid-19 pandemic has affected everyone and how it has led her to appreciate the importance of staying connected with loved ones. Both agreed on the importance of empathy and understanding, and urged people to look beyond superficial differences and connect with their hearts.
Embracing Love and Focusing on Essentials
Asta discussed her approach to working from home and her dedication to serving her clients with love and care, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs. Michael concurred, emphasizing the importance of approaching life with a giving and loving mindset to foster empathy and understanding. Both agreed on the significance of focusing on what's essential and ignoring distractions, pointing out that this approach leads to personal growth and alignment with one's soul's purpose. They also cautioned against getting bogged down by unimportant information, which can harm the mind and divert one from their true path.
Focusing on Happiness and Love Activism
Asta emphasized the importance of focusing on what makes one's soul happy, suggesting that this approach would lead to greater fulfillment and success, as well as positively impact those around them. She encouraged people to ask themselves this question and to act on the answer, with the aim of spreading more love and happiness. Asta also shared her own experiences and offered her services as a fashion designer and love activator, emphasizing the importance of serving others from a place of love rather than competition. Michael agreed with Asta's approach and asked her to share more about where people could find her services.
Love's Power and Well-Being Collaboration
Asta and Michael had a conversation about the power of love and its positive effects on well-being. Michael expressed appreciation for Asta's insights and promised to share the conversation via his network. They agreed to collaborate in sharing links and spreading their message of love and wellness. Both Asta and Michael felt uplifted and energized by the discussion.
Sign up for energy healing session waiting list:
https://link.appointmatichosted.com/widget/form/8mbcKwZN1eJqFABBKHh7
Website: https://www.relationshipcoach.biz/ 
TikTok:
https://www.tiktok.com/@astajakubson?_t=8mWyEFWtnlJ&_r=1
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/relationship_love_activator/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Nq25ZdiMlDSmgXRAid7eg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555956167645

Motivation Monday: Revolutionizing Food Security: Marc Plinke on Sustainable Year-Round Greenhouse Solutions

Marc is the Founder of Ceres Greenhouse Solutions, LLC®, an innovative design company that partners with residential and commercial food growers to help build extremely energy-efficient greenhouses with advanced climate-control technologies.Marc has a PhD in chemical engineering, giving him a unique perspective on food production and climate optimization. His in-demand book The Year-Round Solar Greenhouse details the fruit of his research and experience in perfecting greenhouse technology and design.Ceres has created a unique ground-to-air heat transfer (GAHT®) supplemental heating and cooling system for greenhouses that allows plants to survive—and thrive—through cold winters by harnessing the earth’s natural ability to produce heat and regulate climate.Ceres is also the only distributor in North America of ETFE Glazing, a super durable and highly light-transmissive (95%) greenhouse material that has been widely used in Japan for decades—and it is also recyclable!Our food systems in North America are disconnected and wasteful, forcing us to transport food in long-distance supply chains. Not only does this use excessive energy, it also creates food deserts and alienates communities from their food source.Marc wants to revolutionize this antiquated system by using climate-controlled greenhouses, empowering communities to produce high-quality, local food throughout the year.Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CeresGreenhouseSolutionsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcplinke/
instagram: @ceresgreenhousesfacebook: facebook.com/CeresGreenhouses\
Michael and Marc discussed business issues, sustainability, and the importance of inspiring people to do good in the world. They focused on improving food production and sustainability through year-round crop growth, the benefits of raised bed gardens and greenhouses in educational facilities, and the importance of consuming fresh, locally grown produce.
Michael and Marc discussed business issues, sustainability, and inspiring people to do good in the world. Michael introduced Marc and gave him the opportunity to share about his work. The conversation was expected to last between 15 and 20 minutes, and Michael encouraged an organic and authentic discussion. Marc's last name, Plinka, was clarified for Michael's reference.
 
 
Year-Round Crop Growing for Food Security
The chemical engineer speaker shared their vision of improving food production and sustainability by growing crops year-round. Recalling his childhood experiences with seasonal food scarcity, Michael expressed appreciation for the speaker's work and highlighted the importance of food production in feeding a growing global population. Both agreed on the potential of their approach to mitigate food shortages and prevent starvation.
 
 
Fresh Produce, Sustainability, and Education
Marc discussed the importance of producing and consuming fresh, flavorful produce all year round, particularly in colder climates. The speaker emphasized the focus on sustainability for future generations. Michael concurred, highlighting the significance of good taste and texture in vegetables and the positive impact this can have on overall health and well-being. Both agreed on the importance of early education in developing healthy food habits, with Marc sharing a personal example of how growing vegetables in school influenced their son's future cooking habits.
 
 
Benefits of Raised Bed Gardens and Greenhouses
Marc discussed the benefits of raised bed gardens and greenhouses in educational facilities, highlighting their potential to teach people about food growth and sustainability. Michael concurred, emphasizing the value of learning how to cook and combine food ingredients. He also pointed out the importance of growing one's food to self-sustainability, especially during potential shortages or supply chain issues. Michael further shared his appreciation for community gardens, particularly in impoverished areas, to provide food and foster a sense of community.
 
 
Emphasizing Local Produce for Health, Agriculture, and Climate Change
Michael emphasizes the importance of consuming fresh, locally grown produce, sharing his positive experience at a local farmer's Marcet. He encourages others, especially younger people, to appreciate such foods' flavors and nutritional value. The iPhone participant agrees, highlighting the benefits for health, local agriculture, and adapting to climate change.
 
 
Connecting With Nature for Well-Being
Michael and Marc discussed the importance of connecting with nature for overall well-being. They highlighted the benefits of gardening, spending time in the sun, and practicing mindful eating. Michael shared his experience in healthcare, emphasizing the role of these practices in preventing burnout and promoting recovery. Marc introduced his work in greenhouse solutions, and they agreed to share their discussion across their networks.

Founder Friday: Creating Immersive Experiences: A Conversation with Geoff Thatcher, Founder of Creative Principals and Author of The CEO’s Time Machine

Known by his peers for his infectious creativity and enthusiasm, Geoff Thatcher is an experienced creative leader who knows how to take a project from concept to reality. For most of his career, these projects have involved creating world-class experiences in theme parks, museums, visitor centers, brand experiences, and live events.Geoff’s eclectic background always delivers a fresh perspective. His experience includes everything from helping the General Entertainment Authority declare Saudi Arabia open for business to Hollywood in 2018 to envisioning new concepts for Miral on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island. Geoff's work transcends borders, whether it’s the world’s largest video dome on a beach in Dubai or the opening ceremonies of the Rio 2007 Pan American Games in Maracanā Stadium. Recent and current projects include the Delta Flight Museum, Abu Dhabi’s Playtopia, College Football Hall of Fame, Jacksonville’s H2.O Purification Center, Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, the FM Global Visitor Center outside Boston, and the Speed Experience Center in Saudi Arabia’s Qiddiya giga project. His work can be seen in attractions such as the Ozark Mill at Finley Farms outside Branson, Missouri, the Quest theme park in Doha, and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi.Geoff is a student of the themed entertainment industry who got his start working as a teenage clean-up boy, lifeguard, train engineer, and stuntman at Lagoon Amusement Park & Pioneer Village in Utah. Before founding Creative Principals in 2017, Geoff was a creative writer, producer, and creative director for JRA, FiveCurrents, and The Brand Experience. He worked on various world-class projects in these roles, including brand experiences like the Lockheed Martin Space Experience Center, museums like Enguinity in the United Kingdom, and theme parks like the Polynesian Cultural Center in Hawaii. Clients included Fortune 500 icons such as Honeywell and Procter & Gamble and institutions and non-profits such as Kaiser Permanente.He is an author, writer, and speaker who has ghostwritten books, published articles, and speaks regularly at TEA and IAAPA events. His first book, The CEO’s Time Machine, was published in April 2020. TD Magazine said the book is “a great way to prepare your mindset going into conversations about how your business can navigate our new, uncertain world.” He was featured on Science Channel’s show If We Built It Today, discussing how “The Lost City of Atlantis” could be transformed into an attraction. Finally, he launched and owned Ask Buzz, a website and attraction calculator honoring the late Harrison “Buzz” Price.Instagram: @geoffthatcherX: @geoffthatcherLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoffthatcher/www.creativeprincipals.com
Geoff's Work and Book Discussion
Theme Park Experiences and Career Paths
Geoff, a veteran of the theme park industry, shared his passion for creating memorable experiences and telling powerful stories with Michael, who agreed on the importance of experiences over possessions. They reminisced about their favorite parks, with Michael mentioning Kings Island and Geoff discussing the global impact of Kings Island's success. Geoff highlighted the benefits of hands-on experience in the amusement industry and the variety of career paths available, including engineering, hospitality, and space travel. Geoff's work as a writer was also discussed, with Michael showing interest in his motivation for writing a book.
Geoff's Time Travel Book Journey
Geoff shared the story of how he wrote "The CEO's Time Machine" while travelling to Saudi Arabia for work. The book explores the idea of time travel and the challenges of making decisions in the present. Geoff had initially intended to publish the book himself, but due to the pandemic, he collaborated with his daughter Zoe, who designed and illustrated the book. The book was eventually published in April 2020, and although it wasn't a bestseller, Geoff expressed pride in its positive reviews.
Debating Time Machine and Future-Thinking
Geoff and Michael debated the pros and cons of a time machine, particularly focusing on its impact on decision-making and future-thinking. Michael highlighted the potential benefits of learning from past events and historical figures, but also noted the potential drawbacks of knowing tragic events in advance. Geoff, drawing from his experience with a history exhibit, underscored the value of a forward-looking perspective, using the example of an invisible airplane, and argued that envisioning and living in the future could offer insights that are currently unavailable.
AI Enhancing Immersive Experiences in Concerts
Geoff and Michael discussed the future of immersive experiences in the experience industry, with a focus on the integration of AI. They agreed that AI has the potential to transform the industry, much like animatronics and other techniques have in the past. They also discussed the evolution of music concert experiences, particularly the use of holographic technology. They highlighted how current technology, such as the new stadium in Vegas and the YouTube concert sphere, offers a more immersive experience compared to traditional concerts, and how AI enhances these experiences by enabling virtual participation and on-stage performances.