The Dirty Side of Leadership
Where leadership meets entertainment! This weekly podcast disrupts the status quo by discussing hot-button topics that most podcasters are afraid to touch. Ron and Kristin apply their combined 50+ years of real leadership experience and take both a humorous and raw look behind closed doors. Often sharing personal experiences both in the workplace and out, they answer listener questions and breakdown 'dirty lessons' from Ron's best selling book, "The Dirty Side of Leadership".
Leadership at Full Gallop: What the Kentucky Derby Teaches Us About Winning | Episode 114
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin discuss the recent and Kentucky Derby. The race was extra exciting as an underdog horse called Sovereignty, ridden by a Junior Alvarado, secured a Derby victory.
They also unpack the many leadership lessons from horse racing and discuss the little known and controversial history of the derby itself. Whether or not you are into horse racing, you don't want to miss this episode!
Sources: Book: The Forgotten Home Child by Genevieve Graham; Chatgpt; Movie: Secretariat
Co-hosts: Ron Ward and Kristin Sokoloff
Exporting Poverty: The Tragedy of the British Home Children | Episode 113
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin discuss a dark part of history that is rarely discussed. The topic was taken from the book, "The Forgotten Home Child" by Genevieve Graham. Ron and Kristin discuss the fact that more than 100,000 children were shipped out of Britain to other parts of their dominion between 1869 and the 1940s. About 80% were shipped to Canada and the remainder were sent to Australia, New Zealand and parts of Africa. The children were promised better lives… but what they got was exploitation, child labor, abuse—and they were led there by t...
Unbossing: What Is It and Why Is It Trending? | Episode 112
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin address a trend that has become widespread in today's businesses and companies. The term? Unbossing. They break down what it is and why is it trending?
A surprisingly high number—72%—of the youngest generation of workers say they’d rather be individual contributors than middle managers. Statistics also revealed that up to 80% of employees today prioritize work-life balance over career advancement. Many are realizing that the managerial role often comes with an avalanche of responsibilities that can lead to burnout. They also value balance, belonging and creati...
Will Trump’s Tariffs Restore American Greatness or Isolate Us from the World? | Episode 111
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin ask the question: Will Trump’s Tariffs Restore American Greatness or Isolate Us from the World? Listeners will learn the origin of tariffs in the United States, their purpose and results. Ron and Kristin will compare tariffs from the past and discuss their purpose today. They also explain how tariffs could reinvigorate on American manufacturing and improve national safety in relation to tariffs.
As always, Ron and Kristin provide their opinion and give advice on the best way to move forward in these challenging times. solut...
Recognition is Free...So Why So Stingy? | Episode 110
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin discuss recognition, its benefits and the results of withholding it from employees. While recognition is a simple, cost-free way to boost morale and productivity, many leaders are hesitant to offer it.
Why would leaders withhold compliments? This episode breaks down the psychological underpinnings of this behavior, explores historical patterns, and examines real-world examples where a lack of recognition led to significant consequences.
Don't miss this important episode!
Sources: knowledgecity.com; shrm.org; https://www.octanner.com/white-papers/how-to-measure-the-roi-of-employee-recognition?utm_source=google&u...
The Slow Death of Greatness: When Leaders Tolerate Bad Employees | Episode 109
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin discuss the impact of leaders who fail to take action regarding poor performers in the workplace. They also delve into the psychology of poor managers who allow negative actions and behaviors to persist. They issue a dire warning to such leaders that their lack of action diminishes their influence which, ultimately, leads to high turnover and a poor work environment.
As always, Ron and Kristin provide solutions to these important issues.
Don't miss this important episode!
Sources: knowledgecity.com; shrm.org and c...
Unheard Stories of Evil World Leaders | Episode 108
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin discuss disturbing stories that occurred at the hands of evil leaders throughout history. They also discuss some of the modern slave labor that occurs in many well-known companies in the US and abroad. Warning: This episode might be disturbing to some people.
Sources: sfgate.com; amnesty.org; aljazeera.com; epi.org; hrw.org; reuters.com; cnn.com; idij.org; theguardian.com; washingtonpost.com
Co-hosts: Ron Ward and Kristin Sokoloff
Sponsor: 4Ward Operations
Producer: Stephen Ridley
Facebook Group Administrator: Cassy Roop
What Is the Difference Between Confidence and Arrogance? | Episode 107
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin break down the difference between confidence and arrogance. They explain that confidence is that inner assurance that you have the skills, knowledge, and ability to succeed. It’s the calmness in your decision-making and the ability to inspire trust in others. On the other hand, arrogance is an overestimation of one’s own abilities, often accompanied by a dismissive attitude toward others. It’s that loud, brash persona that can easily alienate team members and create a toxic work environment. As always, they provide helpful tips for leaders...
Is Bureaucracy Ruining Your Organization? | Episode 106
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin, discuss the realities of bureaucracy and its impact on business. According to HBR.org, bureaucracy has few fans. Walmart CEO Doug McMillon calls it “a villain.” Berkshire Hathaway vice chair Charlie Munger says its tentacles should be treated like “the cancers they so much resemble.” Jamie Dimon, the CEO of JPMorgan Chase, agrees that bureaucracy is “a disease.” While it appears the problem is realized, only a few companies actually do something about it. As always, there are interesting stories and proposed solutions to help businesses and organizations...
The Homelessness Hustle: Who's Really Cashing In? | Episode 105
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin, do a deep dive into the truth behind one of the biggest scams in modern politics—the business of homelessness and the money pit that is illegal immigration. This isn’t just a failure of leadership; this is intentional mismanagement, designed to benefit everyone except the people footing the bill—you, the taxpayer.
Note: This episode is by no means directed towards those who have found themselves homeless, and, we commend all of those churches and nonprofits who selflessly take care of these people. As a matte...
Are You Being Scammed? A Breakdown of the Series, "Scamanda", and the Steps Scammers Use to Get to You | Episode 104
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In this important episode, Ron and Kristin discuss scammers. They provide personal stories and discuss scammers from a leadership perspective and how they use "dark psychology" for personal gain. The hosts also break down two popular documentaries titled, Scamanda and the Search for Instagrams’s Worst Con Artist. They explore the steps they both took to garner empathy and rake in large amounts of money. Finally, this episode provides steps to safeguard you, your family and friends from potential scams. Don't get caught off guard. Be ready for scammers. They are coming!
...
Is the Department of Education a Billion-Dollar Failure? | Episode 103
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin take a deep dive into the leadership failures of the Department of Education. They make the argument that a leader’s first job is to be a good steward of resources. That’s why financial waste is a sign of weak leadership. Out of the 365 Billion Dollar budget in 2024, the DOE spent:
-$373 million on DEI training grants instead of real education.
-Over $100 million spent on DEI "initiatives" that don't improve student performance and in some instances had more federal administrators than teachers in some...
The Science of Persuasion: How to Make Anyone Agree With You | Episode 102
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin, discuss the science behind the power of persuasion. They break down the steps to help both leaders and aspiring leaders be more effective at home or work. They discuss such principles as Reciprocity, Commitment and Consistency, the proper use of authority, the advantage of being liked and the scarcity principle. They also explain that in recent times buyers want more autonomy than in previous times.
Don't miss this important episode and make influence your superpower!
Sources:
https://www.influenceatwork.com/7-principles-of-persuasion/
10 Types of Horrible Bosses | Episode 101
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin break down 10 types of horrible bosses. They are: The Tyrant, The Showman, The Buddy, The Wet Noodle, The Incompetent, the Recluse, The Personality Disorder, The Nervous Nelly, The Do Nothings, and the Exaggerator.
Ron and Kristin, not only provide characteristics of each, but provide strategies to navigate the complexities associated with these types of managers.
Sources:
4Ward Operations Executive Coaching material
Book research - The Dirty Side of Leadership
Co-hosts: Ron Ward and Kristin Sokoloff
Sponsor: 4...
Recap of the First 99, Guests, and Bloopers | Episode 100
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin commemorate the 100th episode of the Dirty Side of Leadership podcast. This episode includes two special guests: Cassy Roop and Marty Logan. They discussed how they learned about the podcast and discussed their favorite episodes. The celebration continues with a blooper reel.
Sources:
The first 99 episodes of the podcast
4Ward Operations presentations
ChatGpt
Co-hosts: Ron Ward and Kristin Sokoloff
Sponsor: 4Ward Operations
Producer: Stephen Ridley
Facebook Group Administrator: Cassy Roop
Where leadership meets entertainment! This wee...
Unpacking Trump's Proposal: The External Revenue Service | Episode 99
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin delve into a provocative topic that has stirred discussions and debates: Donald Trump's proposal to form an External Revenue Service. What does this mean for the American economy, tax policy, and the future of revenue collection? Let’s explore this idea and its implications.
This episode covers the formation of the IRS in 1862 and explores the steps needed to establish the External Revenue Service. From Congressional support to the impact both foreign and domestically, this is a very bold move.
The discussion further ex...
Interesting Facts About Inaugurations | Bonus Episode
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Since it is Inauguration week, Ron and Kristin thought it would be interesting to provide some background on some interesting facts about inaugurations
While many of us are familiar with the basics, there are some intriguing facts about inaugurations that might surprise you. So, don't miss this important episode.
Sources: Chat Gpt
Co-hosts: Ron Ward and Kristin Sokoloff
Sponsor: 4Ward Operations
Producer: Stephen Ridley
Facebook Group Administrator: Cassy Roop
Where leadership meets entertainment! This weekly podcast takes both a humorous and intense look a...
Leadership Failures from the California Inferno | Episode 98
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin break down the various aspects of leadership failures during the ongoing fires in California. There are several lessons that can be learned from this tragedy that can be used to prevent future disasters and perform at maximum output during another such incident.
Sources:
Chat Gpt
Foxnews.com
nbc.com
Co-hosts: Ron Ward and Kristin Sokoloff
Sponsor: 4Ward Operations
Producer: Stephen Ridley
Facebook Group Administrator: Cassy Roop
Where leadership meets entertainment! This weekly podcast takes both a...
Trump’s Greenland Plan: Genius Strategy or Political Madness? | Episode 97
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin discuss one of the boldest, most unconventional ideas ever associated with a U.S. president-elect: Donald Trump’s potential annexation of Greenland.
The concept sounds like something out of a political thriller. The idea of annexing the world’s largest island shocked Americans and the global community. But, as with most bold ideas, there’s a deeper strategic story here.
This episode will explore the “why” behind this controversial proposal. What does Greenland bring to the table? How does this idea fit into America’s...
Bourbon Street Terror: Leadership Failures Exposed in New Orleans Attack | Episode 96
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin delve into the heartbreaking and critical topic—the New Year’s Day terror attack on New Orleans’ iconic Bourbon Street. First from our podcast family, our prayers are with the victims, families and first responders who suffered from this attack. Nonetheless, this tragedy raises questions about leadership, accountability, and public safety."
To provide background, a truck driven by an ISIS sympathizer killed 10 people and injured 35 others in a horrifying attack. The tragic irony? Protective barriers meant to prevent such an attack were removed just two months...
Evaluating 2024 to Succeed in 2025 | Episode 95
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In this episode Ron and Kristin discuss the concept of evidenced based practices (EBP) to improve both your personal and professional life. EBP originated in the medical community and it has been used to improve lives and businesses all over the world. If you are unsatisfied with the status quo, this episode is for you. Let Ron and Kristin help you "come alive in 2025!"
Sources:
Oxford Review
4Ward Operations material
Chat Gpt
Co-hosts: Ron Ward and Kristin Sokoloff
Sponsor: 4Ward Operations
Producer: Stephen Ridley
Conversation Matching for the Holidays | Episode 94
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Don't miss this important episode where Ron and Kristin explain methods of communication to help you deepen family bonds, reduce misunderstandings, create memorable moments and strengthen emotional intelligence. Ron even claims to have set a Guinness World Record. Merry Christmas everyone!
Sources:
4Ward Operations.com
Chat Gpt
Co-hosts: Ron Ward and Kristin Sokoloff
Sponsor: 4Ward Operations
Producer: Stephen Ridley
Facebook Group Administrator: Cassy Roop
Where leadership meets entertainment! This weekly podcast takes both a humorous and intense look at leadership through impactful st...
Accused of Racism, Acquitted of Guilt: Daniel Penny’s Leadership Under Fire | Episode 93
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Let’s start by setting the scene. It was a crowded New York City subway car, filled with everyday people just trying to get where they were going. That’s when Rodney Dunn began exhibiting threatening behavior—shouting, making aggressive gestures, and scaring passengers. Witnesses described the atmosphere as tense and fearful.
This is where leadership begins: someone has to take initiative. Daniel Penny saw what was happening and decided to act. Leadership often emerges in moments where no one else is willing to step up, and Penny chose to intervene instea...
Ten Reasons Businesses Fail | Episode 92
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin discuss the reasons most businesses fail within the first year. They add a few bonuses to drive the points home. They also provide personal stories of successes and failures in businesses. Finally, Ron discusses some of the stories in his best selling book, The Dirty Side of Leadership. If you plan to start a business in 2025, don't miss this important episode!
Sources:
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/7-ways-dei-harming-your-company-how-resolve-brian-dapelo
https://parfreymurphy.ie/top-10-reasons-small-businesses-fail/
https://www.theamericanconservative.com/dei-training-harmful-phony-and-expensive/
https://www.amazon.co...
Walmart Rolls Back DEI | Episode 91
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin discuss Walmarts and other major company's decisions to discontinue their DEI initiatives. They discuss the landmark Supreme Court decision removing Affirmative Action from College acceptance. They also provide information on the cost savings of eliminating these programs and they discuss a path for Americans to move past race, heal as a country and become prosperous, safe and happy.
*We apologize for the issue with Kristin's microphone, but we'll have it back and operational next week!*
Sources:
https://www.inc.com/bruce-crumley/walmart-joins-growing-list-of-companies-dropping-dei-policies/91024542
Government Waste: Does Trump Have the Answer? | Episode 90
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In this episode Ron and Kristin discuss some of the issues related to President elect Donald Trump’s plan to eliminate government waste and overhaul the federal system. Love him or hate him, his vision to transform America is bold. But the big question is: can he actually pull it off?
This episode will unpack all of the intricacies surrounding these important issues.
Sources:
https://www.npr.org/2024/11/19/nx-s1-5195379/president-elect-trump-promises-a-massive-overhaul-of-the-federal-government
https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/4993221-trump-federal-workforce-overhaul-schedule-f/
Co-hosts: Ron Ward and Kristin Sokoloff
Sponsor: 4Wa...
Seize the Moment (Post-Election Strategies) | Episode 89
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin discuss the opportunities that are sure to follow after the election of Donald Trump back to the Presidency. They remind listeners that contrary to what many have said, the US prospered under President Trump’s first term in office. Inflation, gas prices, groceries, and many other consumer goods were more affordable. Also, the stock market was booming!
This episode also delves into the difference between a fixed mindset and a growth mindset. You will be encouraged to seize this moment and choose to expand your gifts...
Careful Who You Hire | Episode 88
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Ron has waited over two years to discuss a recent court case, where he was defrauded. The case has been finalized and he's talking. As part of the discussion, Ron and Kristin provide several tips and stories to help you keep your digital assets safe, and they discuss the danger of going into business with someone. Don't miss this great discussion!
Sources:
ChatGpt
4Ward Operations
Berkeley County, Court of Common Pleas
Co-hosts: Ron Ward and Kristin Sokoloff
Sponsor: 4Ward Operations
Producer: Stephen Ridley
Fac...
Uncovering the Interesting World of Podcasting | Episode 87
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin explore the fascinating world of podcasting. They take a look at the history and the future of this unique medium. The multiple platforms continue to grow annually and there are no signs of it slowing down. With the mistrust of the legacy media and the exposure of many Hollywood elites, podcasting might be the wave of the future. This episode also provides timelines of this evolution and Ron and Kristin explore the profit side of podcasting. Don't miss this important episode!
Sources:
ChatGpt
htt...
The Phenomenon of Failing Up | Episode 86
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin dive into the concept of "failing up," where individuals fail repeatedly in their roles but still manage to get promoted. They begin by discussing Kamala Harris's political career, highlighting key moments where she broke rules but faced no real consequences. These include her late registration to vote at age 29, campaign finance violations during her 2003 District Attorney race, accepting donations from slumlords she was supposed to regulate, and mishandling a major drug lab scandal as Attorney General.
The hosts explain how certain people, particularly those with...
Crisis in Kentucky | Episode 85
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin dive deep into a truly devastating and complex story out of Letcher County, Kentucky, where Sheriff Shawn M. Stines allegedly shot and killed District Judge Kevin Mullins inside the courthouse—specifically, in Mullins’ own chambers. This story exposes not only the tragic side of leadership but also the dark consequences of unaddressed internal conflicts, unchecked pressures, and an unraveling of trust within leadership roles.
Sources:
ChatGpt
https://www.courier-journal.com/story/news/crime/2024/10/14/former-letcher-county-sheriff-stines-shooting-judge-case-has-timeline-of-events-possible-defense/75606233007/
Co-hosts: Ron Ward and Kristin Sokoloff
Spon...
P. Diddy and the Federal Court System | Episode 84
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin discuss the distorted leadership and the arrest of P. Diddy "Sean" Combs. Combs' arrest is all over the news, and it appears he has displayed the very worst in leadership and has engaged in atrocious activities. P. Diddy is a rapper, music producer and entrepreneur. Since this inflammatory case is filled with speculative statements, misinformation, and a lack of understanding about how the federal court system operates, Ron uses his extensive career and knowledge about federal courts to bring clarity as to how the system actually works. D...
The Shady Business of Natural Disasters | Episode 83
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin discuss the multi-dimensional aspects of natural disasters. The episode is inspired by the recent destruction caused by hurricane Helene. This powerful storm that left a trail of destruction in the Southeast. The hurricane left over one million people without power, and, at the time of this recording, there were at least 40 confirmed deaths. The storm has disrupted communities, devastated infrastructure, and pushed leadership and emergency response teams to their limits.
This episode also explores the dark side of natural disasters to expose ways that storms a...
Unhealthy Church Leadership | Episode 82
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin delve into the taboo topic of unhealthy church leadership. They discuss the characteristics, how to identify it, and what you can do about it. The episode was inspired by the Mega Maniacs podcast with Robyn Torgrimson. This podcast describes years of abuse with World Harvest Church with Pastor Rod Parsley. There was a viral clip where Rod’s daughter, Ashton was rebuking everyone for not giving or sowing seed into the ministry. Ron and Kristin use this example and other examples to challenge church leaders to take ca...
Does This Mean NASA Is Doomed? | Episode 81
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin explore the question, "Is NASA Doomed?" They will delve into the situation where two astronauts are stuck at the International Space Station and break down Nasa's overall leadership - or lack thereof. They discuss Nasa's lack of talent retention, the inability to recruit the top engineers, and Nasa's reliance on other entities, such as SpaceX and Blue Origin. Ron also has a personal unrelated story about Nasa. There are no simple answers for Nasa's decline but can it be saved with the right approach to leadership and pr...
The Truth About Union Strikes and What They Don't Want You to Know | Episode 80
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin discuss the history, dynamics, and the many leadership issues surrounding union strikes. The inspiration for this episode was birthed from the Fred Meyer grocery workers' strike against Kroger. Ron and Kristin point out the power of the First Amendment to the Constitution that allows US Citizens to peacefully assemble. They also delve into the illegal Air Traffic Controllers' strike in 1981, when Ronald Reagan fired over 11,000 employees. Don't miss the unique episode.
Sources:
ChatGpt
https://electionbuddy.com/blog/2022/11/30/what-happens-when-a-union-strikes/
https://electionbuddy.com/blog/2022/11/30/w...
What's a "No Quit" Policy? | Episode 79
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin discuss the "no quit" policy of many large companies. They delve into the reasoning behind this decision and the impact on employees. They also cover some interesting facts about how to improve employee retention. Also, leave a podcast rating and get a free Dirty Side of Leadership Podcast tee shirt.
Resources:
Walmart's No Quit Policy
ChatGpt
https://www.google.com/search?q=walmart+no+quit+policy&oq=walmarts+no+quitting&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqCAgBEAAYFhgeMgYIABBFGDkyCAgBEAAYFhgeMg0IAhAAGIYDGIAEGIoFMg0IAxAAGIYDGIAEGIoFMg0IBBAAGIYDGIAEGIoFMg0IBRAAGIYDGIAEGIoFMgoIBhAAGIAEGKIE0gEKMTA3NDVqMGoxNagCCLACAQ&sourceid=chrome&ie...
Leadership Plans vs. Promises; from CEO's to Presidential Candidates | Episode 78
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin tackle a topic that’s essential for companies of any size: that is the importance of having a clear, strategic plan for operating the business—or any organization that you’re leading. They break down the steps to creating a plan and the importance of anticipating shortages or a crisis. As always, they tie in some real-world examples, including some eye-opening contrasts between business leadership and political leadership. Don't miss this important episode!
Sources:
https://prosper-strategies.com/what-is-a-strategic-plan/
Chart Gpt; Fundamentals of Leadership Course...
Price Controls: A Slippery Slope from Harris to Venezuela | Episode 77
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin take a look into the policy of price controls proposed by Vice President Harris and possible ramifications of this policy. They reveal a stark comparison to the Harris policies and the policies enacted by Hugo Chavez in the 1990s in Venezuela. Is America headed toward socialism or is this policy good for Americans? Don't miss a moment of this important episode.
Co-hosts: Ron Ward and Kristin Sokoloff
Sponsor: 4Ward Operations
Producer: Stephen Ridley
Facebook Group Administrator: Cassy Roop
Where leadership...
Resumé Padding; Is Tim Walz Guilty? | Episode 76
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In this episode, Ron and Kristin discuss the concept of resumé padding and the repercussions of such actions. They delve into childhood programming and other motivations that influence someone to pad their resumé. They also discuss the recent allegations of "Stolen Valor," regarding Vice Presidential pick, Tim Walz, and his overstating his military status. As always, you'll be entertained with humor and interesting stories and personal examples.
Sources:
Book: The Dirty Side of Leadership
https://work.chron.com/resume-padding-6500.html
Vance Took Digs at Waltz' Military Record.
htt...
