"Nice Business!" Podcast

In this episode of the “Nice Business!” Podcast™, hosts Richard Train and Jim Bob Howard unpack the psychology behind every customer call and why most businesses are missing the point. While companies often focus on answering questions quickly and efficiently, callers are silently asking something deeper: Do I matter? and Will this be easy?Through practical examples and a simple role-play, this conversation highlights how listening, not scripting, is the real driver of trust. You’ll hear why even polite, accurate answers can still fall short, and how a small shift toward curiosity and discovery can transform the entire customer experience.The episode also explores a growing challenge in today’s business landscape. Fewer trained people are handling more important calls. With customer service roles being stretched thin, the solution is not better personalities. It is better structure. When teams are equipped with a clear, repeatable way to listen, guide, and respond, they can create meaningful interactions without relying on rigid scripts.At its core, this conversation is a reminder that people make decisions emotionally and justify them logically. When customers feel heard, valued, and guided on what to do next, everything else becomes easier.If businesses want to stand out, it starts with one simple shift: stop just answering questions and start understanding the person asking them.Topics Covered:00:00 – Episode Snippet00:34 – Welcome to the Nice Business Podcast01:54 – The invisible sign: “Make me feel important”02:25 – The second silent question: “Will this be easy?”07:02 – Listening as the foundation of trust08:08 – The reality of shrinking customer service roles09:19 – The gap in training for real conversations10:06 – Why personality is not enough11:25 – Answering without discovery12:32 – What a successful call actually feels like13:10 – Guiding the caller instead of just informing14:15 – Why common fixes fail About Your Hosts: Richard Train is a Leadership Coach, Culture Consultant, and the Creator of the “Nice Business!” PodcastTM. He has spent more than 30 years helping leaders uncover the real issues behind performance, often the hidden “drama problems” that do not always show up in the numbers.Connect with Richard Train:Web: https://www.richardltrainconsulting.biz FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578616461967 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-train-b39501349 Jim Bob Howard is a speaker, author, connector, and collaboration expert specializing in SharePoint, Teams, OneDrive, and Microsoft 365. He helps teams and organizations communicate clearly, collaborate effectively, and connect ideas to solve real business challenges. From teaching basic tech skills to leading global events, speaking to large audiences, and coaching teams, Jim Bob is passionate about using technology to bring people and ideas together.Connect with Jim Bob Howard:Web: https://www.jimbobhoward.com X: https://x.com/jbhoward IG: https://www.instagram.com/jbhoward YT: https://www.youtube.com/user/jimbobhoward LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbhoward 

Most businesses still treat phone calls as a routine step in customer service. In reality, they’ve become one of the most decisive moments in the entire customer journey.In this episode of the “Nice Business!” Podcast™, hosts Richard Train and Jim Bob Howard explore how business phone calls have changed in an era shaped by AI, automation, and self-service research. While call volumes are declining across small to mid-sized businesses, the importance of each call has increased significantly as customers now arrive more informed and closer to making a decision.The conversation highlights three key shifts: fewer calls, higher stakes, and a changing expectation of who is answering. Richard and Jim Bob discuss how AI now handles triage, FAQs, and transactions, leaving human agents with the most complex and high-pressure interactions while they often juggle multiple responsibilities.They also challenge the continued use of rigid scripts, showing how they fall short in real conversations where customers are not seeking information but certainty and solutions. Instead of helping, scripts often limit genuine connection and problem-solving.This episode is a reminder for leaders that the modern phone call is no longer the start of a journey but often the final step in a decision. How businesses prepare for that moment can determine whether trust is built or lost.Topics Covered:00:00 – Episode Snippet00:24 – Welcome to the Nice Business Podcast01:09 – Why calls still matter more than ever02:48 – AI now handles most triage and FAQs03:38 – Why customers still need a real person05:14 – Callers are closer to making decisions06:50 – Calls as a test for trust and certainty08:16 – From starting a process to finishing one09:21 – Pressure on under-resourced staff11:45 – Why scripted responses fail real conversations15:07 – Three big shifts reshaping customer calls15:55 – Next episode preview: The psychology of the modern callerAbout Your Hosts: Richard Train is a Leadership Coach, Culture Consultant, and the Creator of the “Nice Business!” PodcastTM. He has spent more than 30 years helping leaders uncover the real issues behind performance, often the hidden “drama problems” that do not always show up in the numbers.Connect with Richard Train:Web: https://www.richardltrainconsulting.biz FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578616461967 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-train-b39501349 Jim Bob Howard is a speaker, author, connector, and collaboration expert specializing in SharePoint, Teams, OneDrive, and Microsoft 365. He helps teams and organizations communicate clearly, collaborate effectively, and connect ideas to solve real business challenges. From teaching basic tech skills to leading global events, speaking to large audiences, and coaching teams, Jim Bob is passionate about using technology to bring people and ideas together.Connect with Jim Bob Howard:Web: https://www.jimbobhoward.com X: https://x.com/jbhoward IG: https://www.instagram.com/jbhoward YT: https://www.youtube.com/user/jimbobhoward LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbhoward 

A strong business can take years to build, but one unexpected moment, one public mistake, or one fast-moving rumor can put everything at risk.In this episode of the “Nice Business!” Podcast™, hosts Richard Train and Jim Bob Howard sit down with crisis management PR specialist Jennifer Rice, co-founder of JNR Communications, to talk about the moments every business hopes never come and why preparing for them is one of the most important leadership responsibilities. From social media firestorms and damaging reviews to workplace incidents and public controversies, Jennifer explains how quickly a situation can escalate and how easily silence, delay, or the wrong response can make things worse.This episode challenges business owners, executives, and leaders to stop assuming “it won’t happen here” and start building the systems they will need when it does. It is a powerful reminder that trust is not protected by luck, but by preparation, and that the way a company responds in its hardest moments often defines how it will be remembered long after the crisis has passed.Topics Covered:00:00 – Episode Snippet01:08 – Introducing our guest, Jennifer Rice02:03 – Who is Jennifer Rice?03:03 – Real workplace disruptions that can turn into crises06:29 – Why online reputation matters08:34 – Step 1: Identifying your top five business risks09:48 – The importance of social media monitoring tools12:01 – Key parts of a crisis plan21:29 – How to craft an honest statement without oversharing23:25 – Why you must speak first or others will tell your story26:34 – The three biggest mistakes brands make in a crisis30:00 – Protecting your people31:46 – Updating your crisis plan32:16 – Different industries, different crisis risks34:13 – What not to do in a crisis35:11 – Why bad responses destroy credibility36:22 – How to contact Jennifer for crisis support38:05 – “Clarity is kindness” in leadershipAbout Our Guest:Jennifer Rice is a crisis management PR specialist and co-founder of JNR Communications with over 30 years of experience helping brands earn meaningful media coverage. What sets Jennifer apart is her relationship-first approach. She focuses on building long-term relationships with journalists and believes earned media should support real business goals, not just look good on paper.Connect with Jennifer Rice:Web: https://jnrcommunications.com/YT: https://www.youtube.com/@JenniferRiceMediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-rice/ Connect with Richard Train:Web: https://www.richardltrainconsulting.biz FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578616461967 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-train-b39501349 Connect with Jim Bob Howard:Web: https://www.jimbobhoward.com X: https://x.com/jbhoward IG: https://www.instagram.com/jbhoward YT: https://www.youtube.com/user/jimbobhoward LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbhoward 

In this episode of the “Nice Business!” Podcast™, hosts Richard Train and Jim Bob Howard welcome Jim Furbish, Owner of Get It Together Assembly and Installation, for a wide-ranging conversation about reputation, integrity, and what it really means to do business the right way. Drawing from a career that includes work with major corporations, nonprofit leadership, and hands-on entrepreneurship, Jim shares how his journey across industries shaped his belief that doing the right thing will build a reputation that you can look back on feeling good about yourself.This episode invites leaders, managers, and business owners to think beyond numbers and outcomes and consider the legacy they are building through their choices. It challenges the idea that success is only about growth and profit, and reframes it around trust, service, and the kind of name people remember long after the job is done.Topics Covered:00:00 – Episode Snippet01:07 – Introducing our guest, Jim Furbush03:43 – Leaving success to realign with values10:09 – “I’d rather sleep well than eat well”15:28 – The danger of slowly compromising your values17:37 – Why service and trust matter more than money20:46 – How strong reputations are built in communities22:58 – The cost of cutthroat success cultures27:28 – People remember character more than money29:03 – Toxic environments change behavior35:00 – It’s not what you sell, it’s how and why you do it36:19 – Why people choose trust over cheaper options38:14 – Seeing the person behind the problem41:28 – Final reflections and closing thoughtsAbout Our Guest:Jim Furbush is a business owner and seasoned professional with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture and Life Science, Business, and Economics from Cornell University. With a career that spans multiple industries and leadership roles, he brings a broad, real-world perspective on how businesses are built, led, and sustained.As the owner of Get It Together Assembly and Installation, Jim focuses on service, trust, and reliability, translating principles of integrity into everyday business practices. Known for his practical wisdom and people-first approach, he offers a grounded view of how reputation, ethics, and consistent decision-making shape long-term success.Connect with Jim Furbush:Web: https://clay.earth/profile/jim-furbush FB: https://www.facebook.com/people/Get-It-Together-Assembly-Installation/100065403672611/Email: [email protected]: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tegrityjimfurbush/ Connect with Richard Train:Web: https://www.richardltrainconsulting.biz FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578616461967 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-train-b39501349 Connect with Jim Bob Howard:Web: https://www.jimbobhoward.com X: https://x.com/jbhoward IG: https://www.instagram.com/jbhoward YT: https://www.youtube.com/user/jimbobhoward LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbhoward 

Innovation sounds good in theory, but most organizations are quietly structured to prevent it.In this episode of the “Nice Business!” PodcastTM, hosts Richard Train and Jim Bob Howard welcome Art Markman, a leading cognitive psychologist whose work focuses on how people think, learn, and create together inside organizations. Drawing from decades of research, teaching, and advisory experience across business, education, and innovation, Art brings a grounded, science-backed perspective to the challenges leaders face every day.This episode invites leaders to rethink what progress actually looks like and challenges the assumption that speed, optimization, and constant output always lead to growth. It offers a fresh way to view innovation as a strategic decision that begins with allowing thinking, experimentation, and a little discomfort.Topics Covered:00:00 – Episode Snippet00:59 – Introducing our guest, Art Markman02:54 – The hidden conflict between efficiency and innovation04:17 – Company size, innovation, and unused capacity07:58 – The value of learning without immediate justification08:01 – Why innovative employees often look inefficient11:26 – Separating routine work from innovative work14:45 – Applying innovation principles in small businesses16:05 – Creating focused innovation roles on small teams22:33 – Investing in people 24:01 – Why traditional brainstorming fails27:07 – Mistake recovery is a leadership skill32:02 – A structured alternative to brainstorming34:24 – Profit is not the only number that matters36:07 – Art’s current work in higher education innovation39:16 – Where to connect with Art MarkmanAbout Our Guest:Art Markman is the Annabel Irion Worsham Centennial Professor of Psychology and Marketing at the University of Texas at Austin and a recognized expert on how people think, decide, and work together. He founded the Program in the Human Dimensions of Organizations and has served as Executive Director of the IC2 Institute.Known for translating cognitive science into practical insight, Art focuses on decision making, creativity, and innovation, helping leaders better understand how human behavior shapes organizational success.Connect with Art Markman:Web: http://www.smartthinkingbook.com/FB: https://www.facebook.com/ArtMarkmanPhD/#X: https://x.com/abmarkmanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/art-markman-93aa6a22/Connect with Richard Train:Web: https://www.richardltrainconsulting.biz FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578616461967 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-train-b39501349 Connect with Jim Bob Howard:Web: https://www.jimbobhoward.com X: https://x.com/jbhoward IG: https://www.instagram.com/jbhoward YT: https://www.youtube.com/user/jimbobhoward LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbhoward 

Systems help businesses run smoother while giving people clarity, confidence, and the ability to do their best work.In this episode of the "Nice Business!" Podcast™, hosts Richard Train and Jim Bob Howard sit down with Liz Jenkins, Founder of A Fresh Space, for a practical and insightful conversation about why systems and processes matter more than most leaders realize. Liz shares how her company grew from a solo operation to a 30-person team by documenting knowledge, reducing clutter, and creating procedures that support both employees and clients.Topics Covered:00:00 – Episode Snippet00:56 – Introducing our guest, Liz Jenkins of A Fresh Space02:09 – How clutter affects productivity and mental load06:19 – Systems are built through trial, feedback, and revision07:58 – Tools must match how your team works11:35 – Capturing details through procedures14:50 – Documenting administrative tasks for continuity16:33 – Procedures capture institutional knowledge19:19 – Learning the “why” through doing the process23:21 – Delegation lets leaders do the work only they can do27:09 – Help people operate in their zone of genius34:27 – Clients notice when every detail is handled37:25 – Every business benefits from documented procedures38:57 – Improvement requires data, not just feelings41:13 – “Did we do what we said we would do?”42:59 – Capturing client preferences for better execution44:30 – Systems define what, how, and when45:57 – Where to connect with Liz JenkinsAbout Our Guest:Liz Jenkins is a Certified Professional Organizer and the owner of A Fresh Space, widely recognized as a leader in the professional organizing industry. She serves as a NAPO National Committee Chair, is a founding member of NAPO Nashville, and is a sought-after national speaker. Liz regularly contributes to major media outlets, magazines, and blogs, sharing her expertise on topics including space and time management, move management, unpacking, decluttering, working with families, and the business of professional organizing. Known for her clear, practical approach, Liz is passionate about helping people reduce clutter, streamline their environments, and create systems that support productivity and peace of mind.Connect with Liz Jenkins:Web: https://www.afreshspace.com/media/FB: https://www.facebook.com/afreshspaceIG: https://www.instagram.com/afreshspace/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a-fresh-space/Connect with Richard Train:Web: https://www.richardltrainconsulting.biz FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578616461967 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-train-b39501349 Connect with Jim Bob Howard:Web: https://www.jimbobhoward.com X: https://x.com/jbhoward IG: https://www.instagram.com/jbhoward YT: https://www.youtube.com/user/jimbobhoward LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbhoward 

In this episode of the "Nice Business!" Podcast™, hosts Richard Train and Jim Bob Howard sit down with Jennie Loev, Founder of JLoev Consulting, for a real conversation about imposter syndrome, confidence, and the messy reality of professional growth. Jennie sheds light on how even accomplished leaders quietly wrestle with self-doubt, why stretching into new roles creates tension, and how acknowledging those feelings can be the first step toward greater competence.Topics Covered:00:00 – Episode Snippet 00:48 – Welcome to the Nice Business Podcast01:30 – Introducing our guest, executive coach Jennie Loev03:08 – What is imposter syndrome?05:10 – Imposter syndrome can drive motivation06:52 – Understanding the root of imposter thoughts08:09 – Normalize and acknowledge10:39 – Building confidence through learning20:05 – Do what only you can do22:13 –  How to know when you’ve “overcome” imposter syndrome23:50 – Celebrate wins to build confidence28:11 – Unchecked imposter syndrome can cause burnout29:02 – Shift focus from failures to wins31:24 – People thrive when valued and trusted32:30 – Poor reviews can discourage high performers35:29 – Good feedback inspires growth37:00 – Intentional leadership builds confidence39:10 – Connect with Jennie LoevAbout Our Guest:Jennie Loev is the Founder of JLoev Consulting and a dedicated advocate for personal and professional growth. With a background that blends business strategy and psychology, she helps clients navigate challenges, clarify direction, and pursue meaningful success.Jennie holds an MBA and a BA in Psychology from the University of Texas at Austin, with professional training in Positive Intelligence, Neuroscience of Coaching, Coaches Rising programs, and Professional in Career Management through the National Society of Career Management. Through thoughtful, personalized coaching, she empowers leaders and professionals to build confidence, embrace growth, and unlock new possibilities in their careers and organizations.Connect withJennie Loev:Web: https://jloevconsulting.com/FB: https://www.facebook.com/jloevconsulting/IG: https://www.instagram.com/jennieloev/X: https://x.com/JennieLoevYT: www.youtube.com/@jennieloev5412LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennieloev/Connect with Richard Train:Web: https://www.richardltrainconsulting.biz FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578616461967 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-train-b39501349 Connect with Jim Bob Howard:Web: https://www.jimbobhoward.com X: https://x.com/jbhoward IG: https://www.instagram.com/jbhoward YT: https://www.youtube.com/user/jimbobhoward LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbhoward 

In this episode of the "Nice Business!" Podcast™, hosts Richard Train and Jim Bob Howard sit down with Jason Duncan, founder of the Exiter Club and author of Exit Without Exiting, for an honest conversation about leadership, burnout, and what it really takes to build a business that does not consume your life.Jason challenges the idea that strong leadership requires fear or control and unpacks the critical difference between being nice and being kind. From holding boundaries and accountability to letting go of the “hero syndrome,” this episode explores why many entrepreneurs stay stuck in the weeds and how shifting from owner operator to owner investor can create both freedom and sustainable growth.Topics Covered:00:00 – Episode Snippet 01:15 – Welcoming our guest, The Real Jason Duncan02:22 – Jason Duncan’s journey and the mission of the Exiter Club03:56 – What “exit” really means for business owners04:55 – The hidden cost of earn-outs and traditional exits08:49 – Working in, on, and above the business26:35 – Being nice doesn’t mean weakness29:27 – Honest feedback vs. people-pleasing34:36 – Being kind to yourself as a leader36:15 – Connect with The Real Jason DuncanAbout Our Guest:Jason Duncan, known as The Real Jason Duncan, is America’s Exit Coach and the creator of the XOS™ Method, a proven framework that helps entrepreneurs build owner-independent businesses. He is the founder of The Exiter Club, a mastermind for seven-figure business owners who want their companies to run without constant involvement.A TEDx speaker, bestselling author of Exit Without Exiting, and host of The Root of All Success podcast, Jason draws from his own experience of building a million-dollar company that depended heavily on him. Today, he helps entrepreneurs replace burnout with systems, increase business value, and reclaim their time without selling or walking away from what they built.Connect with Jason Duncan:Web: https://www.therealjasonduncan.com/IG: https://www.instagram.com/therealjasonduncan/YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFHruC2UNG2jiLXHiOJxd7wLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therealjasonduncan/Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3SsJoe5OXyErysuGmdtJnq?si=1502e61891f74f1c&nd=1&dlsi=eada0bfba69743a5Connect with Richard Train:Web: https://www.richardltrainconsulting.biz FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578616461967 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-train-b39501349 Connect with Jim Bob Howard:Web: https://www.jimbobhoward.com X: https://x.com/jbhoward IG: https://www.instagram.com/jbhoward YT: https://www.youtube.com/user/jimbobhoward LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbhoward 

In this episode of the "Nice Business!" Podcast™, Richard Train and Jim Bob Howard talk with Randy Murphy, serial entrepreneur and fractional CEO, about keeping company culture intact during private equity transitions.Randy shares his experience guiding businesses through growth, recapitalization, and turnarounds, emphasizing the role of transparency, trust, and communication at every level. They explore how private equity investments can create tension between financial goals and the human side of business, and how leaders can navigate that balance without losing the core of their culture. Randy explains how a positive attitude, open communication, and a focus on people can turn disruption into opportunities for growth.This episode is for business owners, executives, and managers who want to manage change effectively while keeping culture, trust, and engagement strong.Topics Covered:00:00 – Introduction01:24 – How to manage private equity without losing your corporate culture04:22 – Private Equity: Boost or Bust for Culture06:03 – Balancing culture and financial goals16:15 – Using transparency to build trust during transitions18:57 – Acceptance, attitude, and action24:17 – PE mistake: ignoring frontline, only working with executives27:05 – Staying human: Care for employees beyond metrics30:03 – Poor communication creates stress32:37 – Communicate non-negotiables early and prioritize clarity34:49 – PE can be highly beneficial if culture and strategy are alignedAbout Our Guest:Randy Murphy is a Serial Entrepreneur and Business Operator, leading strategic growth and operational excellence as the head of Murphy Hiott Consulting. He helps businesses scale, improve profitability, and implement effective processes, drawing on decades of experience founding and growing companies across technology, SaaS, retail, restaurants, and delivery logistics.Connect with Randy Murphy:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jrandymurphy/About Your Hosts: Richard Train is a Vistage Chair, leadership coach, culture consultant, and the creator of the "Nice Business!" Podcast™. He has spent more than 30 years helping leaders uncover the real issues behind performance, often the hidden “drama problems” that do not always show up in the numbers.Connect with Richard Train:Web: https://www.richardltrainconsulting.biz FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578616461967 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-train-b39501349 Jim Bob Howard is a speaker, author, connector, and collaboration expert specializing in SharePoint, Teams, OneDrive, and Microsoft 365. He helps teams and organizations communicate clearly, collaborate effectively, and connect ideas to solve real business challenges. From teaching basic tech skills to leading global events, speaking to large audiences, and coaching teams, Jim Bob is passionate about using technology to bring people and ideas together.Connect with Jim Bob Howard:Web: https://www.jimbobhoward.com X: https://x.com/jbhoward IG: https://www.instagram.com/jbhoward YT: https://www.youtube.com/user/jimbobhoward LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbhoward 

In this episode of the "Nice Business!" Podcast™, Richard Train and Jim Bob Howard talk with Linda Braddy, CEO of the Red Cross of North Texas. Linda shares how her career path led her from higher education into nonprofit leadership, and how staying rooted in mission guides her decisions during times of crisis and uncertainty.Linda connects disaster response leadership to everyday business life, offering practical lessons on accountability, morale, and caring for people while still getting the work done. This episode is a thoughtful listen for leaders who want to build strong teams, lead with intention, and stay focused on what truly matters when things move fast.Topics Covered:00:00 – Episode Snippet01:12 – Introducing Today’s Guest, Linda Brandy03:18 – Understanding the full scope of Red Cross services05:18 – Building a well-structured volunteer training system07:32 – Finding the right way to help during disasters16:01 – Leading change through consistent communication18:03 – Reinforcing values through behaviors20:22 – The Red Cross 7 Principles22:58 – What “done” looks like in disaster recovery29:43 – Productivity, boundaries, and sustainable work culture30:16 – Building a strong volunteer communityAbout Our Guest:Linda Braddy is the CEO of the American Red Cross North Texas, where she leads mission delivery and community resilience efforts serving more than 10.4 million people across 121 counties. With a background in higher education and nonprofit leadership, she has guided organizations through major transformation, including serving as President of Brookhaven College and as the inaugural provost of Dallas College. Known for her mission-driven, people-centered leadership, Linda brings clarity, adaptability, and service to complex, fast-moving environments.Connect with Linda Braddy:Web: https://www.lindabraddy.com/FB: https://www.facebook.com/linda.braddy.3X: https://x.com/Linda_BraddyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindabraddy/About Your Hosts: Richard Train is a Vistage Chair, leadership coach, culture consultant, and the creator of the "Nice Business!" Podcast™. He has spent more than 30 years helping leaders uncover the real issues behind performance, often the hidden “drama problems” that do not always show up in the numbers.Connect with Richard Train:Web: https://www.richardltrainconsulting.biz FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578616461967 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-train-b39501349 Jim Bob Howard is a speaker, author, connector, and collaboration expert specializing in SharePoint, Teams, OneDrive, and Microsoft 365. He helps teams and organizations communicate clearly, collaborate effectively, and connect ideas to solve real business challenges.Connect with Jim Bob Howard:Web: https://www.jimbobhoward.com X: https://x.com/jbhoward IG: https://www.instagram.com/jbhoward YT: https://www.youtube.com/user/jimbobhoward LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbhoward 

"Love conquers fear. When we lead from a place of love, we inspire others to bring their best and their whole selves to everything they do."In this episode of the "Nice Business!" Podcast™, Richard Train and Jim Bob Howard sit down with Brett Hurt, serial entrepreneur, thought leader, and host of the Love Conquers Fear podcast. Brett shares his journey from discovering a passion for programming at age seven to founding and leading multiple successful ventures, including Core Metrics, Bizarre Voice, and data.world.Topics Covered:00:00 – Episode Snippet01:22 – Introducing Today’s Guest, Brett Hurt03:35 – Brett’s early purpose and tech beginnings05:24 – Technology, abundance, and the call for better leaders0734 – A leadership rooted in love11:14 – The ripple effect of positive leadership13:59 – How leaders stay out of the fear trap31:40 – Great cultures are built on risk-taking and love36:31 – The Illusion of “No Time”45:28 – A belief in a loving universe47:27 – Connect with Brett Hurt48:05 – Fear-based leadership is unsustainableAbout Our Guest:Brett Hurt is a serial entrepreneur and the former CEO and co-founder of data.world, the AI-ready data catalog platform helps companies discover, govern, and use their data to create actionable insights and AI-powered experiences. He also co-founded Bazaarvoice and Coremetrics, building both into global leaders in their fields. He is a devoted husband to Debra and a proud father of two, grounding his work in family, service, and the belief that companies and leaders reach their fullest potential when they lead with love.Connect with Brett Hurt:Web: https://www.loveconquersfear.org/FB: https://www.facebook.com/bretthurt/YT: https://www.youtube.com/@LoveConquersFear2025LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bretthurt/Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6wngdSw7FmdibLC9mu300qAbout Your Hosts: Richard Train is a Vistage Chair, leadership coach, culture consultant, and the creator of the “"Nice Business!" Podcast™. He has spent more than 30 years helping leaders uncover the real issues behind performance, often the hidden “drama problems” that do not always show up in the numbers.Connect with Richard Train:Web: https://www.richardltrainconsulting.biz FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578616461967 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-train-b39501349 Jim Bob Howard is a speaker, author, connector, and collaboration expert specializing in SharePoint, Teams, OneDrive, and Microsoft 365. He helps teams and organizations communicate clearly, collaborate effectively, and connect ideas to solve real business challenges.Connect with Jim Bob Howard:Web: https://www.jimbobhoward.com X: https://x.com/jbhoward IG: https://www.instagram.com/jbhoward YT: https://www.youtube.com/user/jimbobhoward LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbhoward 

In this episode of the "Nice Business!" Podcast™, Richard Train and Jim Bob Howard sit down with Jacob Johnson, CEO of Calyan Wax Co., a home fragrance company on a mission to combat human trafficking, for an insightful conversation on mission-driven entrepreneurship, purposeful leadership, and building a business that makes a difference.Topics Covered:00:00 – Episode Snippet01:14 – Welcoming our guest, Jacob Johnson04:40 – The mission came first11:56 – Math problems vs. drama problems in business12:56 – Mojo: Right people in the right roles for flow15:05 – The power of asking open-ended questions16:50 – Understanding competency gaps vs. training needs18:51 – Letting leaders operate in their zone of genius19:48 – Aligning team, culture, and enjoyment in work21:42 – Vision for the future of Calyan Wax Co.26:49 – Connect with Jacob Johnson and visit Calyan Wax Co.About Our Guest:Jacob Johnson is the CEO and Founder of Calyan Wax Co., inspired by a personal connection to someone affected by human trafficking. Studying Criminal Justice and Entrepreneurship, he initially planned a career in law enforcement to bring traffickers to justice. But he quickly realized the problem was much bigger, with law enforcement stretched thin and nonprofits struggling for resources. Through Calyan Wax Co., Jacob works to raise awareness and support efforts to fight human trafficking, combining purpose with entrepreneurship.Connect with Jacob Johnson:Email: [email protected]: https://www.calyanwaxco.com/FB: https://www.facebook.com/calyanwaxco/YT: www.youtube.com/@calyanwaxcoTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@calyanwaxcoPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/calyanwaxco/IG: https://www.instagram.com/calyanwaxco/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobjohnsoncalyan/About Your Hosts: Richard Train is a Vistage Chair, leadership coach, culture consultant, and the creator of the "Nice Business!" Podcast™. He has spent more than 30 years helping leaders uncover the real issues behind performance, often the hidden “drama problems” that do not always show up in the numbers.Connect with Richard Train:Web: https://www.richardltrainconsulting.biz FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578616461967 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-train-b39501349 Jim Bob Howard is a speaker, author, connector, and collaboration expert specializing in SharePoint, Teams, OneDrive, and Microsoft 365. He helps teams and organizations communicate clearly, collaborate effectively, and connect ideas to solve real business challenges.Connect with Jim Bob Howard:Web: https://www.jimbobhoward.com X: https://x.com/jbhoward IG: https://www.instagram.com/jbhoward YT: https://www.youtube.com/user/jimbobhoward LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbhoward 

In this episode of the "Nice Business!" Podcast™, Richard Train and Jim Bob Howard sit down with Laurie Guzman, CEO and Founder of The Inside Story, for an insightful conversation on the power of pivoting, purposeful leadership, and the people side of business.Together, they discuss the vital role of trust, transparency, and communication in building a strong, supportive team while maintaining leadership effectiveness. Laurie shares her experience navigating business challenges, offering practical insights on recognizing when to pivot and how to embrace change intentionally. She highlights how listening deeply and fostering openness can create a thriving company culture where both people and business flourish.Topics Covered:00:00 – Episode Snippet03:57 – When leaders lose sight of people under pressure10:20 – Decision-making fatigue: How much is enough for you13:12 – How to best communicate regardless of who you're talking to18:00 – How thoughtful questions help teams think, grow, and move toward shared purpose20:17 – Trusting people’s genius23:23 – The burnout cycle of micromanagers25:22 – Understanding the power of pivoting29:12 – Building your support system34:22 – Seeing competitors as collaborators instead of threats37:07 – Pivoting during crises42:42 – The power of asking “why”45:51 – Listening as a leadership skill48:06 – Adapting communication across generations52:31 – Closing reflections on connectionAbout Our Guest:Laurie Guzman is an Opportunity Broker and Powerhouse Connector, leading business development initiatives as the CEO of The Inside Story. She and her talented virtual team help entrepreneurs uncover opportunities, grow their businesses, and maximize ROI while maintaining strong company culture and confidentiality. Connect with Laurie Guzman:Web: https://www.insidestorytellers.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-guzman YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG7vWSyLqaagFkAutTr51HA About Your Hosts: Richard Train is a Vistage Chair, leadership coach, culture consultant, and the creator of the "Nice Business!" Podcast™. He has spent more than 30 years helping leaders uncover the real issues behind performance, often the hidden “drama problems” that do not always show up in the numbers.Connect with Richard Train:Web: https://www.richardltrainconsulting.biz FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578616461967 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-train-b39501349 Jim Bob Howard is a speaker, author, connector, and collaboration expert specializing in SharePoint, Teams, OneDrive, and Microsoft 365. He helps teams and organizations communicate clearly, collaborate effectively, and connect ideas to solve real business challenges. Connect with Jim Bob Howard:Web: https://www.jimbobhoward.com X: https://x.com/jbhoward IG: https://www.instagram.com/jbhoward YT: https://www.youtube.com/user/jimbobhoward LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbhoward 

When a long anticipated federal funding stream stalled, Compudopt CEO Megan Steckly had to steer a hyper scaling nonprofit through a near reduction in force without breaking culture or momentum. In this candid conversation with host Richard Train, Megan walks through the communications playbook her C suite used to realign strategy, reduce 41 roles in one day to avoid lingering fear, and rebuild trust with radical transparency.Along the way, you will hear how Compudopt grew from a $2M Houston nonprofit to a $62M national organization serving 300,000 people in 66 cities across 28 states, why they budgeted conservatively for only $28M of potential federal funds, how a prior $35M catalytic gift changed their operating model, and the rituals from written talking points to an in person Chicago leadership summit that helped their team process change. The payoff: Compudopt is now stabilizing, rolling out new paid service lines, and celebrating its first 1,000,000 people impacted.You will learnHow to announce and execute a workforce reduction with compassion and clarityA step by step comms sequence VP brief, all hands, written follow ups, anonymous feedbackWhy consolidating layoffs into one day can reduce organizational anxietyHow to budget during uncertain grant cycles and avoid growth cliffsThe role of a CEO personal board of directors in tough seasonsExpectations reset why your team is 2 to 3 months behind you emotionally and how to lead them

Why are your best people leaving? In this live “Nice Business” session, hosts Jim Bob Howard and Richard Train break down the three drivers behind costly turnover: ineffective management, unclear direction, and shallow recognition. Then they give you a simple plan to reverse it.You will learn how to run two “opportunity analysis” meetings that surface smart, specific fixes from managers and staff, how to make your mission real so everyone can connect daily work to the why, and how to tailor recognition so it actually matters. We also share a favorite example from MALK Organics, where a “Dreams Wins” ritual helped unlock loyalty through a turbulent season.

When Jason Bronstad stepped in as CEO of MALK Organics, the company had a 45-day shelf life, a thousand stores to serve, and a shrinking team of employees. The easy path would have been cutting corners with materials and employees. Instead, Jason doubled down on clean ingredients, transparency with his team, and a culture built on personal dreams.We ask Jason how he turned chaos into clarity: personally driving payroll checks across Texas, co-manufacturing for national scale, bringing in the right experts at the right time, and creating a “Dreams Wins” culture channel that fueled loyalty through turbulence. Along the way, MALK grew from three SKUs to fourteen and 9X’d revenue… all without compromising its identity.

When 14 businesses become one, the hardest part isn’t the org chart… it’s the humans. We ask Catalyst MedTech CEO: Marty Shirley about how he rebuilt culture after a seismic merger: opening direct access to leadership, making “everything is personal,” co-authoring performance plans, offboarding with dignity (and welcoming “boomerangs”), and using purpose as a filter for strategy. We get into managers vs. leaders, clarity as kindness, and turning 13 regional playbooks into one “lather, rinse, repeat” operating system, all while keeping the patient at the center.You’ll learn:How to communicate scary change without spinA framework for compassionate exits (and why some people come back)Turning many good processes into one great standardUsing purpose to decide what to keep, sell, or sunset

Have you ever had a manager who told you they wanted people to fear them? If so, why? Or, if you are someone who once believed that was the best management method, but want to change, listen for some tips on what you can do to improve that behavior and reap the benefits today!

Introduction to the hosts, Richard Train of Richard L.Train Consulting, and Jim Bob Howard, Technical Consultant. They'll discuss how this podcast series will help business owners, executives and anyone looking to grow learn how to be kind in their business dealings, and also successful. There's always a nicer way to handle any situation.