Team Building Saves The World

What happens after the backpacks are delivered, the school supplies are unpacked, and the volunteers go home? Dr. Connie Westbrook joins us to share the side of corporate social responsibility that most employees never get to witness. Drawing on nearly 30 years in education, she discusses how partnerships between schools, businesses, and nonprofits create opportunities for students, strengthen communities, and leave an impact that lasts far beyond a single event. This conversation offers a powerful reminder that educational support isn't just about resources—it's about changing futures.

Discover how environmental CSR initiatives improve employee engagement, support workplace wellness, and strengthen communities in this podcast with NEEF CEO Sara Espinoza.

Jennifer Hoadley from the Alzheimer’s Association shares how organizations can better support employee caregivers, improve workplace wellness, and build more compassionate cultures through dementia awareness and brain health education.

Discover how companies are turning purpose-driven team building into real impact by helping children with clubfoot through hands-on charitable events. 

Danny Sudman, Founder of Green Camps, shares how organizations can turn sustainability into hands-on team experiences that drive real behavior change, ownership, and operational impact.

Executive coach and author E.G. Sebastian explains why authentic CSR begins with internal culture. Learn how behavioral communication, trust, and leadership awareness transform employee engagement and retention.

Jolynn Ledgerwood, CEO of Elevate Your Talent, shares how LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® and immersive facilitation help organizations align employee engagement, inclusion, and CSR strategy through hands-on impact experiences.

In this episode, host Rich talks with Nancy Ho, a life strategist and executive coach, about the real key to personal fulfillment in your job—achieving true work-life integration. Nancy shares how leaders can move beyond the outdated idea of “work-life balance” and instead create harmony between their professional success and personal well-being.

Discover how humor at work can boost collaboration, communication, and workplace morale. Learn practical tips for bringing work humor into your team culture.

Stephen Popper, President & CEO of Meals of Hope, shares how his nonprofit has become Florida’s largest food pantry operator—packing over 115 million meals while giving volunteers a meaningful way to give back.

In this episode, we dive into the world of collaborative play with Markus Rüse, the mastermind behind our popular corporate team building game Beat the Box. Markus shares his journey from loving games as a child to creating large-scale cooperative games for adults that bring teams together in unexpected and exciting ways. We explore what is collaborative play, why it works so well in team settings, and how it helps employees communicate, strategize, and solve problems together. Plus, we discuss some of the best collaborative games for boosting engagement and collaboration, whether in the office or at virtual events. If you’re looking for ways to energize your team and foster a culture of connection, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Stern shares how to transform workplace conflicts into opportunities for growth by uncovering the real roots of tension, like poor communication and attachment styles, rather than simple personality clashes. She offers practical, research-backed strategies, including regular feedback, proactive check-ins, empathy-building techniques, and stress management tactics to create supportive work environments. Listeners will gain actionable insights to navigate difficult team dynamics, strengthen relationships, and foster collaboration and success at work.

In this powerful episode, Mitesh Kapadia shares his journey from Wall Street to wellness, offering a fresh perspective on being present in both leadership and life. He explains how shifting from constant striving to learning how to be in the present can lead to deeper fulfillment, stronger connections, and even greater productivity. Through real stories and practical insights, Mitesh shows what it means to be present in the workplace and how leaders can inspire others simply by choosing to be in the present themselves.

Generational researcher Dr. Meghan Grace joins host Rich to unpack the realities of leading a multigenerational workforce and reveal what it takes to bridge generational divides. Drawing on over a decade of research, Meghan explains how Gen Z’s serious, informed approach to work is shaped by economic challenges, rising education costs, and lessons learned from millennials’ struggles. She busts the myth that younger generations are lazy, spotlighting their tech savvy, emotional intelligence, and drive to work smarter. Listeners will discover practical strategies for building trust, fostering purpose, and boosting productivity across generations in today’s evolving workplace.

Leadership coach Russell Harvey, known as The Resilience Coach, joins host Rich to explore how teams can thrive in a VUCA world, which stands for Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous. With over 20 years of experience, Russell shares actionable insights on building resilience through purpose, confidence, and adaptability. Discover how leaders can foster well-being, strengthen support systems, and inspire growth by helping teams spring forward and succeed amid uncertainty.

 Krystle Starr, a performer and two-time LEGO Masters champion, shares powerful real-life examples of teamwork that highlight the profound teamwork impact on achieving success. Through creative play—such as LEGO therapy and her new game Cardio Quest—she demonstrates how fun and innovative activities can strengthen collaboration, trust, and communication. Discover the true impact of working together as a team toward a common goal. Learn practical insights on fostering collaboration, respect, and creativity for stronger teams.

In this episode, Melissa Richards breaks down why trust is everything in leadership. She drops real tips on building trust with empathy, clear vibes, and keeping it consistent. Using her higher ed experience and her book The 30, 60, 90 Day Handbook, she breaks down trust into three must-knows: credibility, commitment, and connection. If you wanna lead with heart and actually make an impact, this one’s for you.

How can understanding different learning styles help you unlock your team’s full potential? In this episode, Hall of Fame speaker Tyler Hayden shares practical strategies using his Multiple Intelligence Quotient (MIQ) framework. From kinesthetic to interpersonal to linguistic learners, you’ll learn how to engage employees, boost performance, and create team-building experiences that really stick. Tune in to find out how designing for learning styles can reduce absenteeism, drive results, and build smarter, stronger teams!

Angela Lewis joins the podcast to share her journey from Division I athlete and pro basketball player to leadership coach and Head of Operations at Speaker Hub. She reflects on the power of sports to build confidence, open doors, and teach lifelong lessons about teamwork, trust, and resilience. Angela dives into what it means to lead with empathy, the importance of play in team building, and how great leaders know when to pass the ball. With stories that span from St. Louis to Colombia, she reminds us that personal growth always starts with curiosity—and sometimes, a good slice of pizza.

In this episode, we sit down with Scot Wirth, Director of Operations at Little Free Library, to explore how a simple idea—a box of books—sparked a global movement (yes, including Antarctica!). Scot shares the origin story of Little Free Library, how it grew from one small structure into a worldwide network, and the powerful ways these little libraries bring people together. We also swap favorite reads and reflect on the unique role books play in building community, connection, and conversation.

In this episode, we chat with Josh Robinson—professional percussionist, teaching artist, and founder of Drumming Up A Team. Josh shares how he uses rhythm as a powerful tool to build connection, process grief, and foster teamwork. From schools to corporate retreats, Josh leads engaging drumming workshops that help people express themselves, break down barriers, and heal through sound. With a background rooted in personal transformation and decades of performance and teaching, Josh brings a unique perspective on how drumming can unite and uplift.

In this episode, we sit down with Haley Grayless, Founder & CEO of Växa Collective, to talk about the power of gratitude in the workplace. With a background in organizational development and over a decade of nonprofit experience, Haley shares how simple acts of appreciation can drastically improve employee retention, morale, and performance. We dive into real strategies companies can use to create healthier, more engaging work cultures. If you're looking to boost your team's connection and commitment, this one's for you.

Emmy Award-winning host and improv pro Mark DeCarlo joins Rich to explore how improv sparks happier, more connected teams. From The Second City to voicing Hugh Neutron on Jimmy Neutron, Mark shares fun stories and practical tips that reveal why happy teams are the most productive and innovative ones.

Storytelling isn’t just about entertainment—it’s a proven way to engage audiences, influence decisions, and make messages more memorable. In this episode, Rich sits down with sales and communications expert Robert Mattson to explore the power of business storytelling and how it can transform sales, leadership, and communication. Learn key techniques, including the “33 rule” for keeping attention, balancing detail with brevity, and using emotional connections to drive action. Whether you're pitching an idea, leading a team, or closing a sale, this episode is packed with tips to help you communicate more effectively and influence decision makers within and outside of your organization.

Season 6 of Team Building Saves the World is here! In The Impact of Great Teams, we’re exploring how engaged teams and strong leadership create a ripple effect beyond the workplace. Host Rich Rininsland shares what’s in store this season, from insightful conversations to expert perspectives on the real-world impact of teamwork.

This week, host Rich sits down with inclusion activist Ash Beckham for a discussion on leadership and inclusion in the workplace. Ash explains the consequences for leaders who don’t prioritize inclusion and authenticity through a business lens and a human lens. The pair discuss inclusive leadership practices, including ways to foster allyship within teams and ensure inclusive policies are put into action—not just on paper. They emphasize the importance of seeing coworkers as layered individuals rather than just their job title. Join Rich and Ash for expert tips on how to foster an inclusive culture and genuine employee connections.

Join Host Rich Rininisland for a festive deep-dive into all things TeamBonding Holidays! Rich sits down with Director of Virtual Events, Jayne Hannah, and Event Manager, Laura “Coop” Cooper, to explore holiday team-building experiences of the past, present, and future. From nostalgic moments to innovative virtual gatherings, Jayne and Coop share their insights on how to make holiday events memorable, inclusive, and fun for everyone. Tune in to get inspired for your own holiday team bonding, learn what’s new for this season, and hear about the future trends shaping holiday celebrations in the workplace!

On this episode of Team Building Saves the World, Rich welcomes Kory Kogon, FranklinCovey’s VP of Content Development and senior leadership consultant, for a deep dive into workplace efficiency. Kory, a facilitator of the new 7 Habits of Highly Effective People course, shares key leadership habits, discusses the importance of building team synergy, and explores how consulting strategies can drive impactful business results. They also unpack FranklinCovey's memorable slogans like “see, do, get” and “change, choice, and principles,” offering practical ways to incorporate these principles for a more productive, fulfilling work life.

On this episode of Team Building Saves the World, Rich sits down with Chris Gulley, founder of The Hand Project, and Veronica Kidemi, The Hand Project Ambassador, to discuss the company’s history as well as Veronica’s story of using her trauma to help women throughout Africa. Chris shares the impactful moment that led him to create The Hand Project and explains how the process works. Veronica details how she overcame a violent attack from her husband and broke through social barriers in Tanzania to make her own nonprofit, Voice of Women Africa. Our very own Director of Program Development, Shannon Lane Dupont, also chimes in to discuss TeamBonding’s connection to the project. Tune in to hear their stories and learn how you can get involved in this impactful program!

On this episode of Team Building Saves the World, host Rich is joined by Jon Stetson, America’s Master Mentalist! Jon explains mentalist psychology, including how to brush off embarrassment and become your most genuine self. He dives into his process for performing for live audiences, as well as how he uses creativity and imagination when creating new segments. His latest segment, The Halloween Hijinx Show, blends the art of mind reading, mystery, and seasonal fun with a touch of the supernatural. In these virtual event, he feeds off of audience interaction with impossible mind tricks and hair-raising fun.

In this episode of Team Building Saves the World, host Rich sits down with futurist and foresight expert Jeremy Nulik of Bigwidesky to discuss how leaders can craft the future of their business. Jeremy explains how to use scenario planning and strategic foresight to future-proof your business, prepare employees for inevitable challenges, and incorporate imagination and creativity into operational processes. He also runs through his scenario planning process when helping companies work through possible challenges to build resiliency and get closer to reaching their goals.

On this episode, host Rich is joined by Hayleigh Bailey and Kit Pang of BostonSpeaks, a company that offers coaching to help individuals overcome their public speaking anxiety. Hayleigh and Kit explain how teams can most efficiently work together by keeping different communication styles in mind. They discuss various communication channels and tools to make employees’ lives easier, and how to discover your specific communication style in the workplace. Hayleigh explains how to create a more unified team with tools like open door policies, and Kit instructs us on how to overcome moments of miscommunication by looking inwards.

In this episode of Team Building Saves the World, social dynamics expert Aden Nepom joins host Rich for a chat about having difficult conversations at work. Aden explains the basis of psychology safety – the concept that refers to creating a work environment where employees feel safe to take risks and share their opinions without punishment or embarrassment – and its effect on employee wellbeing. The pair also discusses how team building activities can foster an inclusive workplace where employees feel more inclined to share things with each other and have hard conversations at work. Listen in to create a more open, honest, and tightknit workplace culture!

In this episode of Team Building Saves the World, host Rich celebrates our 101st episode with the man who started it all, TeamBonding founder and COO (Creator of Opportunities) David Goldstein! The pair discuss the humble beginnings of TeamBonding and how team building and having fun at work have grown into essential functions of healthy businesses today. David shares his thoughts on current trends in employee engagement, such as AI and digital events, and looks at the future of the industry. They reflect on how the Covid pandemic in 2020 forced businesses to pivot to virtual events – and the success that came for those adaptable businesses like TeamBonding. Join Rich and David for a discussion on how to make work fun for your employees for years to come!

In this episode of Team Building Saves the World, host Rich sits down with Dr. Froswa Booker to explore the world of social capital. The two discuss how to build a workplace community to improve employee loyalty and bonds. Froswa explains the varying types of social capital – such as favor capital and informational capital – and addresses common misconceptions of what social capital is and is not. Tune into this conversation to learn how to build an inclusive corporate social network in order to helps your employees thrive in the workplace and breakdown silos between teammates.

In this episode of Team Building Saves the World, Rich sits down with Braxton Wood, Chief Career Mentor at Professional Pivots, about the ins and outs of company core values. The pair discuss common workplace values–such as integrity and respect–and dig deeper into customer-centric core values. Braxton emphasizes the importance of having a customer-centric culture in order to encourage strong company values and give employees a shared purpose. Dive into this episode to discover how to build, enforce, and embody your company's core values.

In this podcast episode, host Rich is joined by Laura Sukorokoff, Chief Engagement Officer of Take Charge Learning. Laura explains how leaders and managers can encourage employee skill development and help their workers develop the essential soft skills (or as she calls them, power skills) for a successful career. The pair dive into management strategies for ultimate engagement and retention, such as consistent one-on-one meetings and open communication channels, and leadership strategies to ensure managers have the proper support to mentor their direct reports. Listen now to discover important power skills and how to help your employees start building their professional future!

In this episode of Team Building Saves the World, host Rich Rininsland chats with Melanie Miller, a seasoned consultant, about the meaning and importance of DEI&B (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) in today's corporate world. They discuss the evolution of diversity initiatives, from compliance to competitive advantage, and address common misconceptions about DE&I in the workplace. With humor and candor, Melanie shares stories, including a memorable session where a participant asked to be "made woke." Rich and Melanie also highlight the need for DE&I champions, including white male leaders who may feel uncertain or threatened. They stress empathy, understanding, and inclusivity to build a more effective team.

In this episode, our host Rich is joined by Thomas Bertels, President and Founder of Purpose Works Consulting, to answer the question, “what is business transformation?” They dive into the importance of inspiring change from within by starting at the employee level rather than relying heavily on strong leadership. He explains how healthy employee turnover is key to a strong business transformation strategy, and the typical approach his consulting firm takes to build a personalized framework for each business. Tune in to get first-hand insights from an expert in the art of business transformation and start inspiring change within your own organization.

Tune in as host Rich chats with Kevin Pertusiello, one of our top TeamBonding facilitators, about the world of corporate team building. They share hilarious stories from past events, offer key insights for managers, and discuss the transformative power of team bonding activities. Laugh along as they explore corporate cultures and answer the burning question: "Does team building really work?"

Join host Rich Rininsland and Kit Pang, founder of BostonSpeaks, as they challenge conventional approaches to public speaking anxiety in this episode of "Team Building Saves the World." Through personal anecdotes and insights, they explore the roots of anxiety and introduce revolutionary concepts from influential books that reshape traditional methods. Discover the power of radical mindset shifts and belief system transformations in overcoming speaking anxiety and unlocking your full potential on the stage and beyond. Tune in for a fresh perspective and actionable insights that promise to revolutionize your relationship with public speaking.

Explore the essence of people-oriented leadership with Wendy Hanson from New Level Work as she shares insights on nurturing team growth and productivity. From recognizing individual strengths to fostering a positive company culture, this podcast offers practical advice for empowering leadership in today's dynamic workplace.

In this episode of "Team Building Saves the World," Michael, the founder of FNE International, shares his inspiring journey of dedicated service and community empowerment. From his early involvement in social justice initiatives to founding the H.O.P.E. Program and organizing impactful trips to Nicaragua, Michael's passion for service has driven him to create sustainable change. Through initiatives like Soles for Souls, FNE International distributes essential items like shoes to communities in need, fostering connections between volunteers and those they serve. Michael highlights the profound impact of these initiatives, emphasizing the reciprocal nature of service where both volunteers and communities benefit. He underscores the efficiency of smaller organizations like FNE International, where donations directly translate into tangible support for those in need. Reflecting on a transformative encounter during a visit to New York City, Michael emphasizes the importance of lifting others up and invites listeners to join the movement for positive change. Tune in as we explore the power of Uniting Teams for Global Good and making a meaningful difference in the world through service and community empowerment.

Consider this season your exclusive insider’s guide to unlocking the door to organizational success. Tune in as we embark on an exciting journey exploring the vast world of business, skillfully decoding the very DNA of tomorrow's company culture. In season 5, we connect with renowned thought leaders, bringing you invaluable insights on topics that resonate deeply and empowering you to actively shape and redefine your workplace. We'll engage with thought leaders nationwide, exploring expert perspectives from individuals who stand at the forefront of shaping the future of work and cultivating a positive and forward-thinking organizational ethos. These thought leaders, alongside industry experts and visionaries, will share invaluable insights that illuminate the path forward. Gain unique insights into their experiences, innovative strategies, and profound philosophies on crafting cultures that not only inspire and engage but also adapt seamlessly to the evolving landscape of our professional world. The future of company culture is unfolding now, and it starts right here – because success is not just a destination; it's a culture in the making.

Consider this season your exclusive insider’s guide to unlocking the door to organizational success. Tune in as we embark on an exciting journey exploring the vast world of business, skillfully decoding the very DNA of tomorrow's company culture. In season 5, we connect with renowned thought leaders, bringing you invaluable insights on topics that resonate deeply and empowering you to actively shape and redefine your workplace. We'll engage with thought leaders nationwide, exploring expert perspectives from individuals who stand at the forefront of shaping the future of work and cultivating a positive and forward-thinking organizational ethos. These thought leaders, alongside industry experts and visionaries, will share invaluable insights that illuminate the path forward. Gain unique insights into their experiences, innovative strategies, and profound philosophies on crafting cultures that not only inspire and engage but also adapt seamlessly to the evolving landscape of our professional world. The future of company culture is unfolding now, and it starts right here – because success is not just a destination; it's a culture in the making.

On this episode of Team Building Saves the World we wrap up Season 4 with leadership expert Lisa Nordquist. Join us as we explore practical insights, success stories, and actionable strategies for effective leadership, employee engagement, and organizational change. Listen as we uncover the keys to putting theories into practice, as Lisa shares her invaluable experiences and innovative approaches, guiding listeners towards a transformative journey in pursuit of organizational excellence. You don’t want to miss this one.

On this episode of Team Building Saves the World we dove into the distinction between corporate social responsibility and regular charitable team building events with our CSR Creative Director Baylee Goldstein. The holiday season is a perfect time to bring your team closer together. Join us as we explore creative holiday giving ideas that not only foster camaraderie but also benefit those in need. We'll provide ways your team can give back year-round and how to make a lasting impact this holiday season while improving employee engagement & company culture.

In this episode of Team Building Saves the World, we delve into the concept of Team MOJO with Diane Egbers—how to cultivate it and sustain the vital synergy that leads to exceptional productivity and performance in organizations. We explore the key ingredients for building Team MOJO, the role of emotional intelligence, strategies for adapting to changing team dynamics, and its connection to mental health and inclusion in the workplace. Be sure to listen to gain insights and practical advice from Diane in improving team synergy, leadership development, and executive coaching.

Mistakes, failures, errors, blunders, and mishaps. Are you feeling uncomfortable yet? No one is perfect, but we all hope for a perfect performance at work. Guess what? It’s not going to happen! In this episode of Team Building Saves the World, we dive deep into the world of workplace culture with company culture expert Chris Dyer. Discover why avoiding mistakes may hinder your organization's growth, and learn how embracing failure can be a catalyst for innovation. Chris shares practical examples of how cultivating a culture that welcomes risk-taking and learning from failures can lead to colossal business success. We also explore strategies for effective team building and employee engagement, making this episode a valuable resource for leaders and individuals aiming to thrive in today's evolving business landscape.