Evolving Your Workplace
On this workplace podcast, your host Carol Schultz brings on experts to discuss problems many business owners face in real time. Guest experts provide context for the issue and advise those in leadership positions on best practices. Whether you are starting a company, or you lead an established organization-- the podcast is geared toward getting you helpful answers.
From Avoidance to Accountability: Difficult Workplace Conversations Demystified

In this conversation, Carol Schultz and Bill Benjamin discuss the challenges of having difficult conversations in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence and creating a culture of feedback.
They explore the concept of the 'last 8%'âthe unspoken words in tough discussionsâand how to foster an environment where employees feel safe to express themselves. The discussion also touches on the impact of toxic leadership, the necessity of assessing emotional intelligence, and the role of organizational culture in driving performance.
Bill shares insights from his experience at the Institute for Health and Human Pote...
Tariffs: Catastrophe or Hidden Opportunity for Your Workplace?

If youâre curious about how tariffs are impacting the workplace right now, this one is for you.Â
In this episode, host Carol Schultz sits down with supply chain expert Matt Spooner to break down what tariffs really mean for businessesâfrom small bike shops to multinational corporations. Â
Are tariffs really the catastrophe weâre hearing about, or are there hidden opportunities for innovation and growth? Get insights on how leaders should communicate with their teams, why some industries might actually benefit, and what American consumers might have to change about their buying habits. Â
Whether...
Self-Learning, Self-Awareness & The Modern Learner

In this episode of Evolving Your Workplace After Hours, host Carol Schultz is joined by Kevin Legg to explore the topic of self-learning in the workplace. Kevin starts things off by sharing insights from his consulting work, specifically referencing a recent survey where most employees identified as "self learners." However, Kevin believes their actionsâsuch as rarely reading, seeking feedback, or actively pursuing learning opportunitiesâsuggest otherwise. This gets the ball rolling on a rich conversation about the complexities of self-perception, self-awareness, and what truly constitutes being a self learner. Â
Carol draws parallels between self-assessing learning styles and ov...
What is Founderâs Syndrome?

Curious to learn more about Founderâs syndrome, or working for someone who may have it? This episode is for you.Â
Host Carol Schultz teams up with social impact entrepreneur Sophia Shaw to dive deep into the tricky dynamics of founder syndrome. From understanding why founders struggle to let go, to practical strategies for succession planning and building a culture that supports new leadership, the conversation is packed with real-world stories and actionable advice for both founders and their teams.Â
Whether youâre just starting your business or looking for ways to future-proof your organization, you wo...
RTO Mandates: Trust, Tactics, and the Bait-and-Switch Backlash

In this brand new episode of "Evolving Your Workplace After Hours," Carol Schultz introduces her new cohost, Kevin Legg, who brings a global perspective and a focus on workplace learning to the show. Kevin highlights his experience building organizations in various international markets and discusses his current work at Sage, which focuses on how people teach and learn at work. Together, the two hosts prepare for a candid discussion about the evolving nature of the workplace as companies continue to navigate the return-to-office debate.Â
The conversation highlights controversial employer tactics like imposing stricter in-office requirements. Kevin and C...
How IoT is Transforming the Workplace

Wondering how the Internet of Things (IoT) is quietly revolutionizing office spaces and boosting employee productivity? This one is for you.Â
In this episode, host Carol Schultz sits down with IoT expert Fabio Zaniboni to unpack how smart technology is transforming everything from lighting and air quality to sound environments in the workplace. He explains the basics of IoTâembedding intelligence into everyday devices to collect data and enhance building performance.Â
The conversation digs into concerns about electromagnetic frequencies (EMF) and how Fabioâs technology addresses these with extremely low power usage, much less than standa...
Why Top Performers Quit & What Theyâll Never Tell You

This episode of "Evolving Your Workplace After Hours," features hosts Carol Schultz and Rob Swymer taking on the pressing topic of why top performers quit. Not only that, the two discuss what is often left unsaid in exit interviews.
The two reflect on their own experiences and break down how common it is for high performers to leave without ever opening up about the real reasons. This especially happens if a company lacks a true culture of feedback. The longtime hosts emphasize that truly honest feedback cultures are hard to find. But without them, leaders donât fu...
Getting Funded With Foundry Partner Seth Levine

If youâre curious about the process of venture capital (VC) funding or looking to get funding, this episode is for you.Â
Host Carol Schultz sits down with Seth Levine of the prestigious VC firm Foundry. Whether you're an eager founder, a startup dreamer, or just VC-curious, Seth cuts through the noise, sharing hard-won insights on when to actually seek funding, why VC money might not be as glamorous as you think, how to successfully pitch investors, and what sets standout founders apart.Â
Carol and Seth also dig into the toughest founder challenges, from when to b...
Leading Through Organizational Change

This episode of "Evolving Your Workplace: After Hours" features hosts Rob Swymer and Carol Schultz discussing best practices and challenges involved with leading through organizational changes. The conversation gets rolling with a discussion on how constant transformation is a usual part of life in the modern business world, such as when you must adjust to new leadership. Rob emphasizes that consistent communication is needed from leaders as he opens up about his personal experience merging vastly different company cultures.Â
As the conversation continues, Carol highlights the importance of teaching adaptability and resilience to employees, especially if uncertainty i...
âThe Wild Wild Westâ of AI Adoption

If youâre planning to integrate AI into your companyâs workflow or have done so already, this one is for you.Â
In this episode, AI expert Aydin Mirzaee sits down with Carol to share a candid look at how AI is reshaping workplace productivityâand why leaders need to rethink their entire approach to technology.Â
From the security risks hiding in everyday tools, to how teams resist (or embrace) AI, Aydin offers real stories and actionable strategies for every organization navigating the new AI frontier. Â
Tune in to hear the surprising ways companies...
Balancing Performance Metrics With Humanity In The Modern Workplace

This episode of "Evolving Your Workplace After Hours" features co-hosts Rob Swymer and Carol Schultz looking at the challenges leaders face in the business world along with the complexities of performance management. The conversation starts with a discussion on the importance of human connection before shifting to the convoluted performance ranking systems at major tech companies like Microsoft and Meta. In the conversation, Rob reflects on his own experiences with layoffs and performance reviews while emphasizing the intellectual and emotional toll it takes on leaders.Â
The showâs co-hosts also cover the controversial management practices at companies lik...
What Is A Public Benefit Corp., And Should My Company Be One?

If you want to learn more about public benefit corporations (PBCs) and the benefits of becoming one, this episode is for you!Â
Host Carol Schultz dives into the intriguing world of PBCs with expert Marion Siboni, founder and CEO of La Creme de la Stem. Marion tells listeners why she chose to structure her company as PBC and how it integrates social goals into a traditional business model. Â
Learn about the distinct advantages of this corporate structure over the typical C Corp and LLC, and why it might be the perfect choice for organizations with a m...
In-Office, Hybrid, or Remoteâ Whatâs the Best Environment?

This episode of âEvolving Your Workplace After Hoursâ features hosts Carol Schultz and Rob Swymer analyzing the complexities of workplace models and leadership. They discuss a recent report that highlights how there's no perfect working model be it fully in-office, remote, or hybrid setups. The conversation emphasizes organizational health and the fact that leaders must focus on a purpose-driven work environment while providing mentorship and skills development.Â
Rob puts his focus on the human aspect of business and brings up how the pandemic has ingrained a sense of comfort in remote working which has possibly affected human conne...
Creating Trust in Your Workforce

For those seeking tools to establish a culture of trust and security in your workplaceâ this one is for you!Â
In this episode, host Carol Schultz dives into the topic with expert David Alsup, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Ultradent Products. Â
David shares his approach to fostering a trusting environment. He emphasizes the importance of hiring the right personnel, managing performance, and ensuring transparent communication. Carol stresses the importance of measuring competencies to avoid bad hires. Â
Tune in to explore how safety and performance can drive innovation and long-term success in your organiz...
The Importance of Consistent Meetings

In this episode of After Hours, Carol Schultz and her co-host Rob Swymer focus on the importance of intentional communication and consistent meetings.
Carol brings up an interesting article she came across about a manager implementing three essential weekly meetings after transitioning to a remote workplace. Meanwhile, Rob echoes the importance of intentionality, feedback, and consistency in ensuring a thriving remote work environment.Â
Drawing from his own personal experience during the pandemic, Rob highlights the importance of staying connected with teams through regular meetings, even in a virtual environment. The discussion highlights the need to e...
Cold Emailing Mistakes and Myths

For those wanting to master the art of email marketing, this one is for you.Â
Host Carol Schultz calls on expert Jovan Shojlevski to answer your most common questions when it comes to sending cold emails.  Â
They dive into common mistakes companies make, such as sending bulk emails from a single domain. He shares how to make messages feel more personalized and relevant, highlighting the importance of targeting the right audience. Â
Through their discussion, they explore best practices in crafting effective subject lines and how to approach finding a legitimate lead generation service. Â
T...
Workplace Etiquette When Returning to Office

This episode of "Evolving Your Workplace After Hours" features host Carol Schultz and her cohost Rob Swymer discussing workplace etiquette as employees return to the office post-COVID. The conversation focuses on the importance of understanding office behavior, from maintaining professional interactions to dressing appropriately and managing personal calls.Â
Throughout the podcast, Rob and Carol emphasize the role of leadership in facilitating a smooth transition back to the office. Both hosts encourage leaders to engage in conversations about expectations and office etiquette and work on additional guidance and training. The two believe that empathy and understanding are vital i...
Who is the Most Important Person in Your Company?

Who is the most important person in your company? The CEO, CFO, CTO...? Thatâs what we are discussing today. Whether you're a new founder or seasoned executive, this episode is packed with insights to help you lead effectively.Â
Host Carol Schultz dives into a conversation with leadership expert and CEO, Matt DeWolf, exploring the crucial question: âWho is the most important person in a company?â Matt shares his philosophy on market focus and customer-centricity.Â
Together, they tackle shifting workplace dynamics, balancing leadership and management cultures, and why aligning your organization from top to bottom is the k...
The Great Detachment and Creating an Engaged Culture

Hosts Carol Schultz and Rob Swymer take a look at a new Gallup study in this episode of Evolving Your Workplace: After Hours. The two look at some troubling statistics, such as the approximately 51% of Americans currently looking for new jobs. Challenges with hybrid and remote work, ineffective management strategies, and changing expectations from customers are just a few of the issues brought up. Â
The discussion features some perspective from Robâs time leading a remote team during the pandemic. He believes that simple strategies such as virtual coffee meetings and consistent gratitude exercises can make all the...
Why Dei Is So Crucial for Your Company

Is your company considering cutting your DEI programs? If so, this one is for you.
In this powerful episode, DEI expert Stacey Gordon breaks down what's really driving the current attacks on diversity initiatives and why it matters for the future of business...and how politics skew the conversation.
Tune in to hear host Carol Schultz and Stacey discuss common myths about DEI, why not to abandon
these programs, and practical advice for leaders who want to build truly inclusive workplaces.
This timely conversation tackles hard truths while offering hope and...
Metaâs Cuts and The Importance of Human Connection

In this after hours episode, hosts Carol Schultz and Rob Swymer discuss Meta's plans to cut 5% of its workforce. In addition to pointing out parallels to Jack Welch's strategy at GE, the two analyze the broader implications of this approach.Â
The hosts debate the root of the issue behind these cuts. Is it insufficient training, poor hiring practices, or inadequate leadership? Itâs important to get your hiring strategy right the first time around. This way you avoid cost-inefficient methods of hiring, firing, and rehiring. Both hosts give their unique perspectives throughout, with Rob questioning if a perf...
Addressing the Loneliness Epidemic in Your Workplace

If you lead a company and notice a lack of engagement or productivity in workers, this one is for you.
One in every four adults reported feeling lonely in the world, yet very few are talking about it. In and out of the workplace, it is something greatly affecting businesses.
In this eye-opening episode, Chief Scientist at the Academy to Innovate HR Dr. Dieter Veldsman joins Carol to give insight and tips for leaders.
They dive deep into why simply returning to the office isn't the solution, debunk common myths about workplace loneliness...
The Downsides and Benefits of Return to Office Mandates

If youâre a part of the RTO trend, this oneâs for you. Â
In this episode of "Evolving Your Workplace," hosts Rob Swymer and Carol Schultz explore a recent employee exodus around return-to-office (RTO) policies. Rob expresses strong concerns about the use of terms like "revenge quitting" and "resentment" as both speakers point to fundamental problems with company culture and leadership for employees leaving.Â
Plus, the experts discuss how technology has shifted modern workplace dynamics significantly since their early careers. While in-person interaction can be important for building culture, the two advocate for a balance...
Receiving AI Applications

If youâre receiving what seems to be AI applications from prospects, this one is for you.
Why should someone want to work for your company? â This is the question you should answer before you start your search for talent.
Experts Carol Schultz and Steve Cadigan discuss the underlying factor to pay attention to as a leader when recruiting. Forget the magic of AI, no tool will help if companies donât do this first.
They also walk through areas AI can improve the recruiting process rather than the applications currently in place. Carol...
How to Create an Engaged Leadership Culture

In this episode, Carol Schultz and Rob Swymer dissect the public feud over employee compensation between tech billionaires Sam Altman of OpenAI and Elon Musk of xAI, with Musk suing OpenAI while accusing Altman of compensating employees with âlavishâ salaries in an attempt to starve out the competition.Â
Carol and Rob unpack the deeper issues behind the feud. Does it come down to dollars and cents or leadership styles? As two longtime corporate leaders themselves, Carol and Rob draw upon their decades of experience to share insights on motivating and engaging employees. Weâll give you a hint: i...
How To Retain Job Hoppers: From an Expert Recruiter

If youâre struggling to retain your employees or you want to understand the job-hopping issue more in depthâthis one is for you.Â
Job hopping is on the rise in younger generations as we enter a shift from staying at one company for 30 years to focusing on personal growth and the benefits in diverse roles. Once looked down upon, job hopping has now become something to be proud of (or some believe).Â
Host Carol Schultz brings on expert recruiter Rich Deakmann to explore what leaders can do to keep these workers. The two dive into t...
Stop the Talent Drain: Build a Culture They Wonât Leave

Transfer Portal Comparison: "It's now tough for coaches to build cultures because, hey, if the quarterback doesn't like the system, he's out. He puts his name in the transfer portal, and he goes to another system next year." - Rob SwymerÂ
Welcome to "Evolving Your Workplace," the podcast where we unpack the core drivers of a thriving, engaged work culture. In this episode, hosts Carol Schultz and Rob Swymer draw on Gallup's research to reveal how an engaged workforce can boost profitability by 22%. Yet, with less than half of U.S. employees clear on their job expectations, m...
The Future of 2025 Digital Marketing: Farfalla Founder Paul Didwall

In this episode, Carol Schultz speaks with Farfalla founder Paul Didwall about the evolving landscape of digital marketing and AIâs significant impact. The conversation highlights the shift in marketing strategies over the past decade, emphasizing the role of social media and artificial intelligence.
Throughout the conversation, Didwall stresses the balance between using AI for efficiency and the necessity of human oversight to maintain brand integrity and voice. The discussion addresses content effectiveness across different media and different generations, focusing on video, static images, and written content.
The two also explore the evolving role of SE...
The Impact of Entitlement Mindset on Workplace Culture and Leadership Strategies

The Pitfalls of a 'Me First' Culture: "If it's left unchecked, it becomes sort of a me first culture... And then performance just degradates eventually." - Rob SwymerÂ
In todayâs episode, Entitlement Mindset, weâre tackling how a culture of entitlement at the top can derail company growth and undermine collaboration. Host Carol Schultz, joined by co-host Rob Swymer, breaks down a powerful article by Bart Fanelli, CEO of Skillibrium, to explore the difference between managing and true leadership.Â
Discover why culture starts at the top, how entitlement impacts long-term success, and how consistent coachi...
Communicating with Gen Z in the Workplace

On this episode of Evolving Your Workplace, host Carol Schultz brings on her podcast producer and Gen Z representative, Michael Cunningham, to discuss communication dynamics within the workplace. This one is for leaders who struggle to understand the new generations and how to collaborate with them.
The discussion highlights the importance of flexibility, noting preferences for voice interaction to avoid misinterpretation and the challenges posed by remote work and communication technologies.
They also touch on societal issues like generational divides and respect for older generations, with Michael sharing concerns about younger generations' attitudes toward older...
How Job Hunting Impacts Mental Health

Job Hunting and Mental Health: â72 Percent of Applicants Say Job Hunting Harm Their Mental Health.â - Carol SchultzÂ
Co-hosts Carol Schultz and Rob Swymer dive into the pressing issues of the modern workplace. In this episode, they tackle the alarming statistics surrounding Gen Z and job hunting's impact on mental health. As they explore a recent article revealing that 72% of job seekers report mental health struggles during the job search, Carol and Rob discuss the pressures of today's recruitment processes, the role of technology like AI, and the challenges faced by different generations.
Tune in as th...
The Value of Asset Ownership: Energy Expert Dr. Robert Brooks

In this episode of "Authentically Successful," host Carol Schultz converses with Dr. Robert Brooks, founder of RBAC, Inc., and renowned energy expert. Â
Sharing insights from his experience, Bob highlights his journey through several degrees to government work and beyond. He makes a bold suggestion to switch your mindset when it comes to selling assets versus selling time and how it helped him. Â
They also delve into the evolving energy industry, focusing on the shift towards more reliable electricity sources like nuclear power to support data centers and AI applications. Bob discusses the env...
The Reality of Walmart's Employee Relocation Strategy

Corporate America: "When you go to work for a publicly traded company, keep your eyes wide open" - Carol Schultz
In this episode, your co-hosts, Carol Schultz & Rob Swymer dive into the recent headlines surrounding Walmart's relocation mandate. With the deadline fast approaching, Walmart employees are faced with the controversial decision to relocate to one of their hubs or face potential layoffs.
Join Carol and Rob as they dissect the situation, highlighting the implications on company culture, the possible financial motivations behind such corporate moves, and what this means for employees of publicly traded companies...
AI Meets Menswear: Phoebe Tan's Fashion Impact and Entrepreneurial Insights

In this episode, guest Phoebe Tan shares her journey as the founder of Taelor, a menswear rental subscription service with AI styling. She details her time from a small village in Malaysia to Chicago to getting her MBA and later starting a company. Â
Taelorâs service, aimed at busy men, offers fashion convenience with AI-driven efficiency. Phoebe and her co-founder shifted to men's fashion as an underserved market, cleverly partnering with dating apps. Despite its geographic distribution, the company maintains a collaborative culture focused on feedback and continuous improvement. Â
Phoebe shares the importance of authentic commun...
Bridging the Gen Z Communication Gap

The Human Connection: "Where's my connection with my team, my mission, my vision, my value for the customers that I want to serve and the people that I love?" - Rob Swymer
In this episode of the Authentically Successful - After Hours, hosts Carol Schultz and Rob Swymer discuss the misconceptions that employers have about Gen Z workers. They dive into topics like Gen Z's perceived over-dependence on technology, their aversion to corporate jargon, and the importance of human connection in the workplace.
With 70 years of combined experience, Carol and Rob offer insightful perspectives on...
Business education made easier: MBA ASAP founder John Cousins

In this weekâs episode, host Carol sits down with multitalented founder John Cousins. John founded MBA ASAP, an MBA affordable alternative for students. Â
John details his diverse journey from finessing a test to secure a job to working at ABC to eventually diving into entrepreneurship. To date, Johnâs educational tools have been used worldwide by tens of thousands students interested in business. He walks us through what brought him to the realization to start the company in the first place. Â
Later in the discussion, he candidly shares about a nightmare situation with an old busin...
Quiet Vacationing: A Dangerous Trend in the Workplace

Mental Health Crisis: "It's just insane right now. Everybody's fight or flight."
- Rob Swymer
Today on Authentically Successful - After Hours, we'll dissect a revealing Business Insider article, "The Depressing Reality of Quiet Vacationing," and probe the pressures that push all generationsânot just millennials or Gen Zâtoward this silent struggle. Our discussion will be peppered with personal stories, like my own from the trenches of passive-aggressive workplace dynamics, and Rob's recount of a pivotal piece of advice from a mentor urging much-needed rest.
We'll also shine a light on the impa...
Cyber Threats in Healthcare: Founder Matt Lepkowski

In this episode, host Carol Schultz sits down with Matt Lepkowski, founder of Business Automation Experts (BAE). Matt brings a wealth of knowledge in software development, healthcare policy, and cybersecurity, offering invaluable insights on navigating today's complex technological landscape.
Matt shares his personal journey, from his early days in the automotive industry to founding Business Automation Experts, and the trials of building a business from the ground up.
He breaks down the economics of cyber threats, explaining how attackers often have an edge due to their pay-only-for-success model. The conversation leads to...
The Challenge of Using AI in Recruitment: Benefits, Pitfalls, and Practical Applications

âAI can't ask follow-up questions. It doesn't ask questions with nuance. It doesn't ask questions from multiple angles." - Darryl C. ClementsÂ
In this special edition of Authentically Successful - After Hours, we dive deep into the complex and sometimes controversial world of AI in recruiting. Host Carol Schultz, an experienced recruiter and executive coach, along with co-host Rob Swymer, a veteran sales leader and best-selling author, bring their combined 70 years of expertise to the table. Joining them is Darryl C. Clements, principal of the DCC Group, who offers a wealth of knowledge in HR strategy, recruitment, and...
Harnessing Data Power: Entrepreneur Marc Delbaereâs Vision

Welcome back to another episode of Authentically Successful and our first episode post-summer break. This episode includes an exciting conversation with Marc Delbaere, a dynamic data tech founder in Belgium.
Marc's journey is a fascinating tale of innovation, resilience, and the pursuit of independence. From his beginnings as a bond trader to impactful roles at IBM and SWIFT, Marc's career has been a testament to his relentless quest for creativity and meaningful impact.
Join us as Marc shares his experiences transitioning from large corporations to spearheading a successful tech startup. He reveals the motivations behind...