You've Got People Problems

In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, host Melissa Ortiz sits down with John Marshall of Series Next Solutions to unpack why so many leaders struggle to feel confident in their numbers and what is actually missing behind the scenes.This conversation centers around a concept John calls the Hierarchy of Finance Needs, a framework that breaks down how financial clarity is built inside an organization. Many businesses are trying to operate at a strategic level without first having the foundational financial structure in place to support it.Melissa and John walk through how finance is not a single role, but a series of distinct responsibilities, each building on the next. When those roles are unclear or missing, leaders are left making decisions without full visibility into the business.This episode focuses on how to move from simply having numbers to actually understanding and using them to drive better decisions.Key topics covered: • What the “Hierarchy of Finance Needs” is and how it applies to growing businesses • Why many leaders lack confidence in their financials, even when reports exist • The difference between bookkeeping, financial analysis, and CFO-level thinking • How gaps in financial structure lead to poor or delayed decision-making • What it means to create forward-looking or “future” financial clarity • Why having the right people in the right finance roles matters more than most leaders realizeIf you are making decisions in your business but feel like you are missing clarity behind the numbers, this episode breaks down where that gap typically comes from and how to think about fixing it.

In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, host Mel Ortiz is joined by longtime Vistage Chair Gary Schulz for a deep dive into one of the most important and overlooked dynamics in business leadership: Who really challenges the CEO, and how do peer groups create transformative accountability for business owners and executives?Drawing on his experience facilitating CEO and key executive groups across California’s Central Valley, Gary Schulz shares the inner workings of Vistage’s confidential model, from how meetings are structured to the people problems that surface again and again. Mel Ortiz and Gary Schulz compare peer models like Vistage and EO, and highlight why outside perspectives are essential for CEOs facing isolation and major decisions.Their conversation goes beyond process to tackle the generational, cultural, and personal obstacles CEOs must overcome—in their teams and themselves—to achieve sustained business growth.Key topics covered in this episode include:How Vistage’s peer group and one-to-one model builds powerful accountability for CEOs and executivesThe four focus areas every CEO must master, and why three are all about peopleCommon issues that surface including succession, generational transitions, culture, and retentionWhy the right “fit” for next-generation leaders is about more than skills—values and alignment are criticalStrategies for handling legacy employees who may no longer align with company culture or directionHow CEOs can evolve from being the “smartest in the room” to building strong, well-rounded leadership teamsThis episode is a must-listen for CEOs, business owners, and leaders curious about how peer advisory groups really work, and why having trusted challengers is essential for both personal growth and company success.

Host Mel Ortiz welcomes Shane Greene of SGE International for a deep-dive into elevating brands by building intentional workplace cultures that drive extraordinary customer and employee experiences. Drawing from decades in hospitality, including time at Ritz-Carlton, Shane shares practical and research-backed insights on why great managers, intentional practices, and recognition are at the heart of thriving organizations.The conversation covers how to foster environments where employees are seen and respected, why moments of recognition matter, and how leadership presence shapes engagement and retention. Mel and Shane also discuss the evolving demands on managers, the importance of hiring for culture fit, and the science behind energizing teams.Key topics covered in this episode include:Why intentional employee experience drives customer and brand outcomesThe critical moments in an employee’s day that shape perception and engagementHow recognition and respect fuse to create powerful human connectionsWhy energy management matters as much as time management for leadersThe importance of hiring for personality, not just experience, in hospitalityHow AI may reshape management, freeing leaders to focus on peopleWhether you’re a leader, HR professional, or someone passionate about culture design, this episode offers actionable strategies for building authentic, high-performing teams and organizations.If you want to learn how intentional practices, manager development, and energy management can transform your workplace, this episode is packed with insights and real-world stories from industry leaders.Visit Activate Human Capital Growth's Website: https://www.activatehcg.com/Questions? Email [email protected]

In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, host Mel Ortiz welcomes long-time friend and fractional CFO Joshua Britt to pull back the curtain on awkward financial conversations every small business owner and leader should be having—but rarely does.Drawing from decades of experience in corporate finance, small business operations, and the trades, Joshua Britt and Mel Ortiz dive into why money conversations are so emotionally charged and why honesty around financials, hiring, and goals is so hard to come by. The conversation covers everything from shame and taboo around money to the importance of clear communication, honest self-assessment, and early financial education.This episode blends real-world anecdotes with tactical advice for owners, executives, and anyone managing people or budgets. Mel Ortiz and Joshua Britt challenge listeners to get comfortable being uncomfortable—for the sake of personal growth, business success, and healthier teams.Key topics covered in this episode include:Why people avoid awkward financial conversations (and who benefits from that silence)The blind spots most owners have in hiring, accounting, and goal-settingHow shame and fear block growth, and ways to reframe money talk as normal and helpfulBridging generational and cultural gaps in financial literacy—at home and at workWhen loyalty to people hurts businesses, and how to navigate tough transitions with graceWhat business leaders can do today to create an honest, transparent, and more supportive cultureWhether you run a family business, are new to financial decisions, or want to step up your leadership game, this episode offers permission to ask tough questions, seek real help, and move your business forward—without judgment.If you’re ready to tackle the intersection of people and money with courage and clarity, listen in for practical strategies and plenty of encouragement.Follow Mel Ortiz on LinkedIn: /melissa-ortiz-talent-optimization-expertVisit Activate Human Capital Group: https://www.activatehcg.com/Questions? Email [email protected]

In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, host Mel Ortiz welcomes EOS Implementer Wendy Waldron to explore the real value of “resistors” in organizations, those team members who push back against change, new systems, or leadership. Instead of seeing resistance as a problem, Mel Ortiz and Wendy Waldron dive into how these voices often hold insights leaders need to make better, safer, and more effective decisions.Drawing from deep experience in healthcare, nonprofit, and entrepreneurial environments, Wendy Waldron shares stories that reveal why resistance often stems from a desire for safety, clarity, or strong core values, not just stubbornness. The conversation covers how leaders can address resistance with curiosity instead of judgment, and where the line is when resistance signals a true culture or role mismatch.Key topics covered in this episode include:Why resistors are often valuable voices who see risks or missing details others overlookHow abundance vs. scarcity mindset impacts change and resistance on teamsWhen resistance protects quality, safety, and core expertise (and when it undermines progress)The importance of not making assumptions and listening for the “why” behind pushbackHow strong core values help people opt in or out, creating healthier organizationsTools and tips for leaders to gain perspective, address resistance productively, and encourage honest conversationsThis episode is a must-listen for leaders, HR professionals, and anyone navigating organizational change. Learn how to reframe resistance as an opportunity for growth, clarity, and better decision-making, and why connection, trust, and psychological safety are essential ingredients.Follow Mel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-ortiz-talent-optimization-expert/ Visit Activate Human Capital Growth's Website: https://www.activatehcg.com/Questions or want to learn more about EOS? Contact Wendy Waldron: [email protected]

What is it actually costing your business when strengths go unnoticed?In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, Melissa Ortiz sits down with Brandon Miller to unpack the hidden cost of underutilized strengths inside organizations. Leaders often assume they need new talent when performance dips. But many times, the capability they are searching for already exists on their team.The real issue is not talent. It is misalignment.Melissa and Brandon discuss how overlooked strengths lead to frustration, disengagement, unnecessary hiring, and wasted potential. They also explore how structured tools and objective evaluation methods help leaders identify what is already working and realign people into roles where they can perform at their best.If you are leading a team, hiring, restructuring, or evaluating performance, this episode will help you rethink how you diagnose people problems and unlock the strengths already inside your organization.In this episode, you will learn:• What underutilized strengths are really costing your business• Why leaders often overlook capability already on their team• The difference between a performance issue and a placement issue• How to use structured tools to evaluate strengths objectively• When to realign roles instead of replacing people• How strengths-based leadership improves engagement and retentionBefore you post that next job description, this conversation may change how you look at your current team.Subscribe for practical leadership conversations about hiring, performance, employee engagement, and solving real people problems inside growing organizations.Follow Mel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-ortiz-talent-optimization-expert/Visit Activate Human Capital Growth's Website: https://www.activatehcg.com/ Have questions? Email us at [email protected]

In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, Melissa Ortiz sits down with Amber Bardon, founder and CEO of Parasol Alliance, to discuss what it really takes to build a strong company culture in a remote environment.Remote work is now a reality for many organizations, but creating connection, accountability, and engagement across a distributed team remains one of the biggest leadership challenges. Amber shares how she built Parasol Alliance into an award-winning workplace while operating remotely, and the intentional leadership practices that made it possible.They explore the difference between simply allowing remote work and truly designing a culture that supports it. From leadership transparency to structured communication and team connection, this conversation offers practical insights for leaders who want remote teams that actually perform.If you lead a remote or hybrid team, this episode will help you think differently about culture, engagement, and the systems required to support both.In this episode, we discuss: • What leaders often get wrong about remote culture • The systems required to keep remote teams aligned • How intentional communication drives engagement • Building trust and connection across distributed teams • Leadership behaviors that strengthen remote organizations • What award-winning culture actually looks like in practiceSubscribe for more conversations about leadership, culture, and solving the people problems that impact business performance.

In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, host Melissa Ortiz is joined by author and speaker Steve Jaffe to explore layoffs from a perspective that is rarely discussed openly: the human experience after a job loss and the responsibility leaders carry on both sides of the table.Drawing from his book The Layoff Journey: From Dismissal to Discovery and his own experience of being laid off four times, Steve shares how people move through the emotional stages of job loss, including shock, shame, and identity disruption. Melissa and Steve discuss why layoffs are no longer rare events, how unprepared most people are for them, and why leaders and HR professionals benefit from understanding what employees experience long after the moment of termination.Rather than focusing only on process or compliance, the conversation centers on empathy, perspective, and what helps people regain clarity and confidence during transition.Key topics covered in this episode include:The emotional stages people experience after a layoffWhy identity and self-worth often become tied to workHow shame and silence can delay recovery after job lossWhat leaders and HR teams often underestimate about layoffsHow empathy changes the way layoffs are handledWhat helps individuals move from dismissal to discoveryThis episode is especially valuable for leaders who have navigated layoffs, HR professionals responsible for delivering difficult news, and individuals facing career transitions. The conversation offers insight into how layoffs impact people beyond the moment itself and why leadership presence matters long after the decision is made.If you want a more human, thoughtful perspective on layoffs and how people move through them, this episode provides clarity and compassion without oversimplifying a difficult topic.

In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, host Melissa Ortiz is joined by leadership advisor and author Carol Enneking for a candid conversation about the constant rebalancing act required in both business and life.Drawing from Carol’s decades of experience across corporate and entrepreneurial environments, the conversation explores why leaders struggle with priorities, decision-making, and clarity, even when they are capable, driven, and well-intentioned. Rather than chasing the idea of “work-life balance,” Melissa and Carol focus on agility, tradeoffs, and the ongoing process of rebalancing as conditions change.Throughout the episode, they discuss how leaders often overload themselves and their teams by treating everything as important, and how that lack of focus shows up as stress, misalignment, and stalled execution.Key topics covered in this episode include:Why “balance” is less realistic than continuous rebalancingHow unclear priorities create pressure for leaders and teamsWhy leaders struggle to name what matters most right nowThe connection between personal overwhelm and organizational overloadHow decision-making improves when leaders get honest about tradeoffsWhy leadership requires letting go, not just doing moreThis episode is especially valuable for founders, executives, and leadership teams who feel stretched thin or overwhelmed by competing demands. Rather than offering quick fixes, the conversation provides perspective on how clarity, focus, and intentional decision-making reduce both personal and organizational strain.If you’re leading a business and feeling pulled in too many directions at once, this episode offers a grounded reminder that leadership is not about perfect balance, but about making conscious choices in each season.

In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, host Melissa Ortiz is joined by organizational leader Amy Perenon to explore how artificial intelligence is already changing leadership, management, and organizational decision-making.Rather than focusing on future predictions, Melissa and Amy discuss how AI is showing up in real workplaces today. They explore how leaders are using AI as a thinking partner, where it can reduce cognitive load for managers, and why AI should support leadership judgment rather than replace it.The conversation also addresses the challenges leaders face when introducing AI, including skepticism, ethical considerations, and the importance of transparency and trust with teams.Key topics covered in this episode include:How AI is entering the org chart and leadership workflowsUsing AI to support managers and reduce frictionWhere AI adds value without replacing human decision-makingTransparency, trust, and ethical considerations in AI useHow AI is reshaping leadership expectations and rolesWhat leaders should experiment with now versus approach cautiouslyThis episode is especially valuable for founders, operators, and people leaders who are navigating AI adoption and want practical, grounded insight rather than hype.If you are trying to understand how AI fits into your organization while maintaining clarity, trust, and strong leadership, this episode offers thoughtful perspective and real-world examples.

In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, host Melissa Ortiz is joined by organizational consultant Michelle Scribner to explore one of the most common, and costly, leadership questions: when to hire full-time, when to go part-time, and when fractional or outsourced support makes more sense.Using accounting and operational roles as real-world examples, Melissa and Michelle discuss how leaders often default to hiring before fully understanding the work that actually needs to be done. They unpack how compliance requirements, especially in states like California, add complexity and risk to hiring decisions, and why many organizations unintentionally overcommit too early.Key topics covered in this episode include:The difference between fractional, part-time, and outsourced rolesHow to evaluate capability needs before committing to headcountWhy some functions are better handled externally at certain stagesThe hidden costs of premature or misaligned hiresHow to think about scale, flexibility, and risk when building your team.This episode is especially valuable for founders, operators, and leadership teams navigating growth, compliance pressure, or uncertainty about their next hire. Rather than prescribing a one-size-fits-all answer, the conversation helps leaders ask better questions before making long-term people decisions.If you’re wrestling with whether a role truly needs to be internal, or how to structure support without overextending your organization, this episode offers practical clarity.

In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, Melissa Ortiz talks with Sarah Seitz and Kate Mathalone from The Enrichery, an organization dedicated to helping students discover how they learn, grow, and thrive—both in school and beyond.From early education to career readiness, Sarah and Kate share how The Enrichery empowers students and families to navigate challenges, set goals, and build confidence. Melissa draws powerful parallels between raising kids and managing people—because as she says, “It’s the same skill set.”You’ll learn how to:Foster growth mindsets in students and employees alikeBuild systems that support long-term successLead with empathy and clarity—at home and at workTranslate education principles into leadership practicesWhether you’re a parent, educator, or leader, this episode offers fresh insight into what it means to develop potential in others.

In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, Melissa Ortiz sits down with Dustin Bonn, VP of Operations at Marco Technologies, to talk about the power of clarity and accountability in leadership.With more than a decade of experience integrating teams through acquisitions, Dustin has seen firsthand how strong communication, clear expectations, and trust drive lasting success.You’ll learn how to:Build alignment across newly combined teamsLead through change without losing cultureUse accountability to strengthen trust and performanceKeep clarity front and center in fast-paced growthWhether you’re navigating a merger, restructuring, or just trying to unify your team, this episode offers practical insight into what it really takes to lead people well.

In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, Melissa Ortiz sits down with Jenna Dillon, CEO of Visionology Coaching, to talk about self-awareness, blind spots, and how leaders can unlock the potential of their teams. As an executive coach working with senior leaders, Jenna helps people step into their best so their organizations can thrive.You’ll learn how to:Recognize and address leadership blind spotsDevelop self-awareness as a foundation for growthElevate team performance through better coachingCreate sustainable results by focusing on people, not just outcomesWhether you’re an experienced executive or an emerging leader, this conversation is full of practical ways to strengthen your leadership and support your team’s success.

In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, Melissa Ortiz welcomes Katie McConnell-Olson, Founder of GrowthWise Search Partners, to talk about what it really means to have the right recruiting partner.Katie shares how her firm operates as a fractional recruiting arm—helping businesses find and screen top talent without the limitations of traditional hiring models.You’ll learn how to:Rethink recruiting as a long-term partnership, not a transactionBuild hiring processes that reflect your culture and valuesAvoid costly mis-hires by aligning people with purposeStrengthen your employer brand through candidate experienceWhether you’re scaling your team or struggling to fill key roles, this episode is packed with actionable insights on how to find the right people—and keep them.

In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, Melissa Ortiz sits down with Luke Ross, CEO of Kotman Technologies, to talk about the evolution from an office-first culture to a hybrid and remote model.Luke shares how his team has adapted to recruiting, onboarding, and leading employees across geographies—while maintaining strong communication, culture, and accountability.You’ll learn how to:Transition from in-office to remote teams without losing connectionBuild trust and accountability in hybrid environmentsRecruit and integrate remote talent effectivelyBalance flexibility with clear structure and expectationsIf your organization is navigating remote or hybrid work, this episode offers practical insight on what it really takes to evolve your culture and leadership mindset.

In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, Melissa Ortiz sits down with Mike Drolet of Six Degrees to talk about what it takes to step into a new organization and quickly chart a path forward.With nearly two decades of experience leading private equity–backed companies through growth and transformation, Mike shares how he uses clarity, communication, and trust to strengthen retention and loyalty—especially during times of change.You’ll learn how to:+ Step into leadership with confidence and empathy+ Assess culture and build alignment early+ Retain key talent during transitions+ Leverage data and people insights to drive engagementWhether you’re taking on a new leadership role or helping your organization navigate change, this episode offers a grounded look at how intentional leadership keeps teams connected and committed.

In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, Melissa Ortiz sits down with David Satterwhite to talk about one of the most pressing leadership challenges today: how to beat burnout and prime productivity. With over 35 years in tech—including two decades as a CRO scaling companies from millions to hundreds of millions in revenue—David has seen firsthand that growth isn’t just about strategy or systems. It’s about people.You’ll learn how to:+Recognize the signs of burnout before they derail performance+Create environments where people thrive and stay engaged+Build scale by focusing on team health, not just business metrics+Leverage mentorship and leadership practices to sustain productivity over the long haulWhether you’re leading a fast-growing startup or an established enterprise, this conversation is packed with hard-earned lessons on keeping your people energized, engaged, and ready to fuel growth.

In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, Melissa Ortiz sits down with Jennifer Guidry, founder and CEO of Solomon Advising, to talk about what it really takes to build well-rounded teams—and why forcing square pegs into round holes only holds businesses back.You’ll learn how to:+Recognize when someone’s gifts don’t align with their role+Develop teams that balance marketing, operations, and leadership strengths+Create a culture where people are empowered to contribute at their highest level+Align profitability, client success, and team well-being by getting roles rightWhether you’re leading a professional services firm, a healthcare practice, or any growing business, this conversation will give you a fresh perspective on how to structure teams for both performance and fulfillment.

In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, Melissa Ortiz sits down with Philip Samuel Raj, founder and CEO of TechJs, to talk about the intersection of AI, culture, and leadership. With a mission to help every individual and business transform with AI, Philip brings a unique lens on how disruption can be both technological and human.You’ll learn how to:+Embrace AI as a tool for transformation without losing focus on people+Create cultures that thrive during disruption and change+Balance organizational goals with individual growth and well-being+Lead teams through innovation in ways that build trust and engagementWhether you’re curious about the future of AI or leading cultural change in your organization, this episode offers practical insights you can apply today.

In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, Melissa Ortiz sits down with Octavia “Tav” Treadway, founder and Chief Greatness Officer of You’re Carrying Something Great, to explore why leaders so often mistake system problems for people problems.You’ll learn how to:+Distinguish between challenges rooted in systems versus individual performance+Avoid wasting time and resources by solving the wrong problem+Build ecosystems that support small business growth and team success+Approach problem-solving with curiosity and clarityWhether you’re leading a startup or scaling an established business, this conversation will help you see problems differently—and uncover solutions that unlock your team’s potential.

In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, Melissa Ortiz sits down with Mary Akioka to talk about how leaders can better engage and retain the skilled trades workforce. These are the “industrial athletes” who build our communities, often in extreme conditions, where trust, safety, and strong leadership matter most.You’ll learn how to:+See frontline workers as “industrial athletes” and lead them differently+Tailor communication, benefits, and programs for crews with unique needs+Build trust and loyalty in demanding, high-pressure environments+Create people-first, safety-first cultures that sustain long-term retentionWhether you’re leading in the trades or managing any frontline team, this conversation is packed with strategies you can put into action right away.

In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, Melissa sits down with Ajay Malik—founder of StudioX and former leader at Google and Cisco—to explore why degrees and formal qualifications shouldn’t be the gatekeepers for great talent. Ajay shares how his own hiring experiences have proven that skill, creativity, and problem-solving matter far more than what’s listed on a diploma.You’ll learn how to:Recognize the limits of résumés and degrees in predicting successSpot potential and capability in unconventional candidatesShift your hiring lens to focus on skills, adaptability, and problem-solvingBuild stronger, more innovative teams by broadening who you considerWhether you’re leading a fast-growing company or rethinking your approach to hiring, this conversation will challenge assumptions and give you practical ways to unlock overlooked talent.🎧 Listen on your favorite podcast platform or watch here on YouTube.

In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, Melissa Ortiz talks with Lauren Fisher, Senior HR Business Partner at Tru HR Solutions, about the game-changing leadership concept Who, Not How. They explore why shifting your focus from doing it yourself to finding the right person can save time, increase effectiveness, and strengthen your team.You’ll learn:How “Who, Not How” applies to leaders in any industryThe role of trust, autonomy, and role clarity in empowering peopleWhy healthy conflict can actually deepen relationships and build stronger teamsHow to avoid “should-ing” on others—and yourself—while holding people accountableWhether you lead a small team or a large organization, this conversation will give you tools to free up your time, empower your people, and get better results.🎧 Listen on your favorite podcast platform or watch here on YouTube.

In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, Melissa sits down with William Uranga to dig into the real-world talent acquisition challenges that growth-focused companies face. From the very first candidate interaction to the first days on the job, every step of the journey matters.You’ll learn how to:+ Design a candidate journey that feels intentional—not transactional+ Structure debriefs so hiring managers can make better, faster decisions+ Communicate clearly to reduce “ghosting” and interview cancellations+ Turn onboarding into an early win for employee engagementWhether you’re scaling quickly or just want to improve your hiring process, this conversation is packed with actionable strategies to make your recruiting efforts more effective and your new hires more successful.🎧 Listen on your favorite podcast platform or watch here on YouTube.

In this episode, Melissa Ortiz sits down with Paisley Coxsey to talk about what happens when leaders finally stop trying to carry the whole business themselves—and start creating alignment across their team.Paisley shares her journey as a Fractional COO, what it means to “lead second,” and how clarity (not just hustle) is what actually moves the needle.If you’ve ever felt stuck in the weeds, unsure how to scale, or frustrated with team communication—this conversation is for you.🎧 Highlights include:The difference between doing and leadingHow aligned leadership unlocks real momentumTools that help teams prioritize what matters mostSubscribe to You’ve Got People Problems for more stories and strategies that help leaders grow through their people.

In this episode of You’ve Got People Problems, Melissa Ortiz is joined by Doug Thorpe to dive deep into one of the most overlooked growth tools: role clarity.From onboarding to accountability to team development, Doug shares how clearly defining roles can prevent misalignment, improve retention, and unlock better performance across the board.Whether you're scaling your company or just trying to get everyone rowing in the same direction, this episode gives you tools to ensure every person knows what “winning” looks like in their seat.🎧 In this conversation:How to create clarity without micromanagingWhy title ≠ roleWhen it’s time to re-review expectations with your teamSubscribe for more real-world conversations about solving the people problems that slow down great businesses.

In Episode 17 of You’ve Got People Problems, Melissa Ortiz is joined by Amy Morin—an accomplished entrepreneur who built, scaled, and sold a business from the ground up, reaching $40M in revenue across multiple states and industries, including Tax and Financial Services.In this episode, they explore the people problems behind sales — and why revenue struggles are often leadership and alignment problems first.Amy shares real stories from her journey as a founder, her work as an EOS Implementer, and how she helps businesses identify the people challenges that choke off growth.In this conversation:+ Why sales issues are often people issues+ How stagnation shows up in your team+ What leaders can do to create clarity around revenue+ Why everyone in your organization is actually in sales🎧 Subscribe for more real talk on leadership, growth, and solving people problems at work.

In Episode 16 of You’ve Got People Problems, Melissa Ortiz sits down with entrepreneur and multi-business owner Matt Hahne—creator of the Supervisor Playbook—for one of the most exciting and practical conversations yet. Matt wears many hats, including business coach, cofounder of an executive financial group, and EOS® Implementer. This episode is packed with real-life examples, practical leadership tools, and a no-fluff breakdown of what it actually takes to lead well.Matt and Melissa dive into:The 5 absolute requirements of leadershipWhy leadership is earned, not assignedWhat supervisors need to know to create clarity, consistency, and trustLessons from the trenches that every people leader can useIf you lead people—or want to—this is one you don’t want to miss.🎧 Subscribe for more tools, frameworks, and stories that help you lead with confidence.

In Episode 15 of You’ve Got People Problems, Melissa Ortiz sits down with Ellie Prentice, an HR leader in the nonprofit space, for a powerful conversation about the role language plays in leadership. From everyday feedback to big-picture messaging, the words we choose can either build trust or quietly erode culture. Ellie shares practical examples and lessons from her work, highlighting how intentional communication can shape healthier, more connected teams.Ellie brings over two decades of experience in nonprofit and education leadership, and shares real stories from the field about how the right words (and the wrong ones) show up in tough conversations, feedback, and everyday team dynamics.We cover:What it means to lead with words that are tough, tender, and transformativeHow to give feedback that’s clear and humanWhy your words matter more than you think—even when you’re busy, frustrated, or under pressure🎧 Subscribe for more episodes that help leaders guess less and win more at work.

In Episode 14, Melissa Ortiz is joined by Healthful founder Nora Zuniga for a candid and insightful conversation about what happens when your work no longer fits.They explore:+ The signs that your role might be out of alignment+ How to pivot with clarity and confidence+Why benefits and support systems can make or break small business growth+The mission behind Healthful and how Nora supports entrepreneursThis one gets personal—but it also offers a practical roadmap for leaders who want to make intentional shifts for themselves and their teams.🎧 Subscribe for honest conversations that help you guess less and lead better.

In Episode 13 of You’ve Got People Problems, Melissa Ortiz sits down with entrepreneur and business owner Amanda Barkey to unpack one of the most powerful (and underrated) skills in leadership: expectation setting.Together, they talk about:+ Why guessing at work leads to burnout and misalignment+ The soft skills that actually move teams forward+ Amanda’s journey scaling a top franchise and pivoting into EOS coaching+ Real-life tools leaders can use to create clarity and momentumIf you’re a business owner, people leader, or just tired of putting out fires—this episode is for you.🎧 Subscribe for more conversations that turn workplace ambiguity into alignment.

In Episode 12 of You’ve Got People Problems, host Melissa Ortiz sits down with Phil Kristianson—President in the manufacturing and construction space, peer group facilitator, and trusted leadership advisor—to explore how peer forums create the space leaders need to grow, reflect, and get unstuck.This discuss:+ Why peer groups are critical for leadership growth and avoiding burnout+ The key difference between advice-giving and experience-sharing+ What makes a peer space feel safe, structured, and effective+ How EOS leaders benefit from stepping out of the “fixer” mindsetWhether you’re in a peer group, leading one, or wondering if it’s time to join, this episode will help you understand why real growth starts with honest connection.

In Episode 11 of You’ve Got People Problems, host Melissa Ortiz is joined by Chris Castillo—a seasoned entrepreneur in the coaching and marketing space and an experienced exit strategist—to discuss the real leadership work required when preparing for a sale or transition.They discuss:+ Why waiting too long to prepare can cost you more than just dollars+ The people dynamics that often go unnoticed (and unaddressed)+ How EOS tools bring structure and alignment to exit planning+ What buyers are really looking for when they evaluate a leadership teamWhether you’re planning your next chapter or simply want a more sustainable business, this episode is your playbook for aligning people and profit before, during, and after the exit.

In Episode 10 of You’ve Got People Problems, host Melissa Ortiz sits down with Misha Homara and Rainee Busby to explore how EOS and Predictive Index help leaders create clarity, accountability, and alignment across their teams.During this episode they discuss: + How to apply the GWC framework (Get it, Want it, Capacity) with confidence+ Why most team issues stem from unclear roles and misaligned expectations+ The leadership habits that build trust, engagement, and high performance+ How EOS and PI together empower leaders to make better people decisionsIf you want to stop the swirl of people problems and start building a team that’s aligned and accountable, this episode is for you.

In Episode 9 of You’ve Got People Problems, host Melissa Ortiz sits down with Krisha Buehler, COO in the virtual assistant space, and Byron Attridge, a sustainable tech executive and EOS® Implementer, to explore how Predictive Index (PI) and EOS® work together to solve some of the toughest people challenges. From uncovering hidden team dynamics to creating role clarity and alignment, they share real-life insights on using data and structure to build stronger, more cohesive teams.They jump into:+ How to use the GWC framework (Get it, Want it, Capacity) to build stronger teams+ Why people misalignment leads to burnout, stress, and poor performance+ How PI data brings clarity to EOS roles and hiring decisions+ Real-world insights on using both systems to make better people movesIf you’ve ever struggled with people decisions, hiring mistakes, or team accountability, this episode gives you the tools to create alignment that lasts.

In Episode 8 of You’ve Got People Problems, host Melissa Ortiz sits down with entrepreneur and advisor Leslie Camacho to break down how leaders can use EOS® and Predictive Index (PI) to build teams that are aligned, accountable, and set up for success. From hiring and onboarding to long-term team health, Leslie shares practical strategies for creating clarity, boosting performance, and making sure your people—and your business—thrive.They discuss:+ Why getting people decisions right changes everything+ The biggest hiring and leadership mistakes to avoid+ How EOS and PI create alignment and accountability+ What leaders can do today to build stronger teamsIf you’re ready to stop guessing and start making data-driven people decisions, this episode is for you.

In Episode 7 of You’ve Got People Problems, Melissa Ortiz sits down with Bill Gerard—EOS® Implementer and former Senior Management Consultant and Director at Merrill Lynch—to talk about why smart leaders are always recruiting, even when they’re not hiring. Bill shares why having a proactive talent strategy matters, what to look for before you need it, and how staying ready can be the difference between seizing an opportunity or missing it entirely.They unpack:+ Why reactive hiring leads to bad fits and burnout+ How to build a strong candidate bench before you need it+ How consistent recruiting protects your team’s performance and cultureIf you want to stop scrambling every time there’s a people gap, this episode is for you.

In Episode 6 of You’ve Got People Problems, host Melissa Ortiz sits down with Renee Russo, a Certified Exit Planning Advisor with extensive experience across SaaS, automotive manufacturing, and a range of other industries. Together, they unpack why exit planning isn’t just about selling—it’s about building a business that gives you freedom, flexibility, and future options. Whether you’re years away from an exit or simply looking to take back control of your time, this conversation will reshape how you think about long-term business strategy.They dive into:+ Why income does not equal value—and how to make your business truly sellable+ The number one reason business owners feel trapped—and how to break free+ How EOS and exit planning work together to build leadership independence+ Why exit planning isn’t just for owners looking to sell—it’s about creating real optionsIf you’re a business owner looking to create value, scale effectively, or take control of your future, this episode is for you.

In Episode 5 of You’ve Got People Problems, host Melissa Ortiz sits down with Randy McDougall—an expert in building strong team dynamics across industries like architecture and law. Together, they unpack what it really takes to foster a culture rooted in trust, ownership, and accountability—without relying on shame or blame.They discuss:How avoiding tough conversations makes leadership harder, not easierWhy self-awareness is the foundation of great leadershipTools and strategies to align your team and improve performanceHow to reframe accountability as empowerment, not punishmentIf you’ve ever struggled with people issues in your business, this episode will give you the strategies and mindset shifts you need to lead with confidence.

In Episode 4 of You’ve Got People Problems, host Melissa Ortiz sits down with Amy Courter—a seasoned executive and respected board leader. Together, they explore how leaders can foster real accountability without blame, and build workplaces grounded in clarity, kindness, and ownership. They discuss: + The difference between being nice and being kind in leadership+ Why assumed positive intent leads to stronger team dynamics+ How established toolkits help leaders put the right people in the right seats+ Practical  strategies for creating accountability without blame or fearIf you’re a business owner, executive, or leader looking to build high-performing teams through trust and clear expectations, this episode is a must-watch.

In Episode 3 of You’ve Got People Problems, host Melissa Ortiz sits down with Jackie Kibler and April Narag to discuss how leaders can refine their hiring process, leverage the right tools, and stop making people decisions based on gut instinct alone.They get into:+ Why so many companies struggle to find the right talent+ The  biggest hiring mistakes and how to avoid them+ How internal structures and assessments help identify top candidates faster+ Strategies to reduce hiring risks and improve long-term team successIf you’ve ever hired someone who looked great on paper but wasn’t the right fit, this episode will give you practical tools to improve your hiring strategy.

In Episode 2 of You’ve Got People Problems, host Melissa Ortiz sits down with Emily Ransone and Vince Korta to explore how leaders can use data-driven insights to improve feedback, accountability, and team performance. Whether you struggle with tough conversations or want to create a culture of empowerment and clarity, this episode gives you practical strategies to make feedback work for your team, not against them.In this episode they discuss:Why leaders shy away from tough people decisions and how to fix itHow data-driven feedback removes judgment and builds trustThe key to turning performance frustrations into clarity and alignmentHow tools help leaders give better feedback and create stronger teamsIf you’ve ever found feedback conversations challenging or ineffective, this episode will give you real solutions you can use today.

In the debut episode of You’ve Got People Problems, host Melissa Ortiz sits down with Rich Wilkowitz from Xylogenesis and Sarah Stern, an expert in family business, to challenge the negative connotations around nepotism and discuss what it really looks like when it’s done right.They dive into:Why nepotism isn’t always a bad thing and how it can actually strengthen businessesThe biggest mistakes leaders make when integrating family into the companyHow EOS and Predictive Index help ensure the right people are in the right seats, whether they’re family or notHow to create a culture of trust, accountability, and merit-based leadership in family businessesWatch now to rethink what you know about nepotism in the workplace.