Be Better with Michael Kurland
83 episodes - English - Latest episode: almost 2 years ago -Be Better is more than just a tagline. It's a culture that permeates organizations, propelling teams to Be Better to each other, their customers, and their communities, as well as to themselves. Each week host Michael Kurland interviews leaders who authentically exemplify how they are being better in their professional and personal lives.
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Episodes
Navigating Your Career Through Mentorship and Clarity with Alexandra Kurland
September 21, 2022 13:36 - 31 minutes - 43.7 MBIn this episode, we are joined by Michael's wife, Alexandra Sanchez Kurland. She is the founder of Alexandra On The Go, a local notary management company predominantly serving Orange County, California. In the podcast, Alexandra shares the story of how she launched her company. She also shares her career journey as an operations officer for an HVAC company to stepping into a sales role at Branded Group, which formed the foundation for her own business.. . Key Takeaways When it comes to you...
Learning the Secret of Great Leadership with Dallin Cooper
September 05, 2022 16:43 - 31 minutes - 42.9 MBDallin Cooper is an author and a keynote speaker who founded Atmosphere Marketing LLC and Ugly Chews. His new book, “Get on the Bull: Developing Attitudes and Behaviors for Successful Leadership” is about ethically progressing into a leadership roles. In this episode, Dallin shares his life from being a shepherd in Wyoming, getting his degree in college, becoming an entrepreneur, and lastly, the process of becoming an author and a keynote speaker. He explains the purpose of his book and ho...
Finding Personal and Professional Fulfillment with Deepa Purushothaman
August 22, 2022 10:30 - 28 minutes - 38.7 MBDeepa Purushothaman is a former senior executive, a corporate inclusion visionary; and co-founder of nFormation. She is the author of the book titled, The First, The Few, and The Only: How Women of Color Can Redefine Power in Corporate America. She is also a Women and Public Policy Program Leader in Practice at the Harvard Kennedy School. In today's episode, Deepa talks about her unique background, including her surroundings and the lessons she learned. She shares how growing up as a woman o...
Create a Culture of Empathy That Benefits All Stakeholders with Michael Walsh
August 08, 2022 11:55 - 31 minutes - 42.8 MBMichael Walsh discusses the evolution of caregiving and how the industry was in need of a complete paradigm shift. This led to the formation of his company, Cariloop. Michael talks in depth about the responsibilities and burdens of caregiving and how his organization has developed a system to support families and caregivers and his plans for the future.. Key Takeaways Prepare for the future of work by creating a culture of care and empathy. Build stakeholder capitalism into your business ...
How to Build a Lasting Company Culture That Transcends the Ordinary with DeLinda Forsythe
July 25, 2022 10:01 - 33 minutes - 45.4 MBIn the episode, Michael speaks with DeLinda Forsythe, the CEO and Founder of "ICE", Innovative Commercial Environments about how the Conscious Capitalism movement inspired her to launch a purpose-driven organization that cares about its people, customers, and community. DeLinda talks about the launch of her business and the principles that have contributed to its growth, including mentorship that facilitates leadership and growth. DeLinda also discusses her book titled "Inspiring Generation...
How to compete every day and live a purpose-filled life with Jake Thompson
July 11, 2022 11:00 - 33 minutes - 46.3 MBMike's guest for this episode is Jake Thompson, a keynote speaker, author, and Chief Encouragement Officer at Compete Every Day. Jake speaks about his life experiences, from working odd jobs as a kid to becoming an entrepreneur. He shares his journey to becoming a keynote speaker to corporate leaders, executives, and management teams has impacted the way leadership interacts with their teams. Moreover, Jake mentions that in recent years, companies are shifting towards focusing on the growth ...
How to create a culture of learning with Dr. Robin Sargent
June 27, 2022 10:17 - 30 minutes - 41.5 MBOrganizations need knowledgeable and skilled employees. However, the world is fast-changing, and machines and AI technologies are swiftly replacing many previous occupations. This is both a threat and an opportunity. Therefore, employees need to be upskilled and companies need to prepare for the new opportunities that will arise before the market is saturated. Overall, organizations face a challenge in effectively training their employees, including new hires. In this podcast, Mike invites ...
How CEOs can create a “wow factor” in their organization with Vikram Malhotra
June 13, 2022 12:46 - 36 minutes - 50.4 MBThe primary role of a CEO is to lead and guide their organization's overall performance as well as make strategic decisions on the company’s future. CEO’s may seek advice on key issues, but they have the final say in making such decisions. In this episode, Michael Kurland interviews Vikram Malhotra, senior partner at McKinsey and author of CEO Excellence: The Six Mindsets that Distinguish the Best Leaders From the Rest. In this podcast, they discuss what it takes to be a great CEO. They als...
How Organizations Can Thrive in a World of Disruption with Kian Gohar
June 06, 2022 10:11 - 33 minutes - 46.6 MBThere are several principles for running a successful business and some of them are beneficial in their own right. However, certain common characteristics can be recognized in businesses that flourish and survive in today's fast-paced, ever-changing world. To those who help organizations expand and grow, words like creativity, flexibility, leadership, and luck are constantly at the forefront. However, our guest in today's episode has written a book that provides business leaders with four ke...
How to bridge the generational gap through active listening with Katie McCleary
June 01, 2022 12:00 - 32 minutes - 45 MBHumans are social beings that are hardwired to interact with others. However, as the importance of professional relationships diminishes, individuals are gradually detaching from one another in today's world. There is also a generational divide, since each age has its own set of values, perspectives, and experiences. In this episode, we are joined by Katie McCleary, co-author of the book “Bridge the Gap” and a co-host of a podcast “The Drive.” She discusses the purpose of her book as well a...
Leadership Begins By Knowing Yourself with Susan Brady
May 23, 2022 12:00 - 32 minutes - 44.3 MBWomen are just as capable as males when it comes to being good political leaders. The same may be said of their capacity to rule the boardroom. In this episode, Michael is joined by Susan Brady, who is the Deloitte Ellen Gabriel for Chair for Women and Leadership at Simmons University and the CEO of Simmons University Institute for Inclusive Leadership, and they discuss about Women having leadership roles, Self-awareness as a leader, and about deep connection with their subordinates. If yo...
How to create cultures of collaboration and connection with Ryan Jenkins and Steven Van Cohen
May 16, 2022 12:00 - 32 minutes - 44.1 MBSince 2015, loneliness has been on the rise in the United States, particularly among Generation Z and millennials. According to YouGov, one-third of American millennials say they are lonely all of the time or most of the time. In this podcast, we are joined by Ryan Jenkins and Steven Cohen, co-founders of Less Lonely. They talk about how loneliness is on the rise, especially among the younger generations. What are the reasons for this increase in loneliness, and how do these reasons reflect ...
Building a Team That Has Passion and Purpose with Christel Tarare
May 09, 2022 10:00 - 33 minutes - 45.6 MBIt's always a delight to lead others to be better every day, even if it's only a little bit better than before, since it makes you better than before. In this episode, we're joined by Christel Tarare, a Gartner Global Client Services Leader, who will give insights on how she navigated to where she is now and how guiding others to be better may help you be better. 📌Key Takeaways 🌟The journey of Christel Tarare’s career and life 🌟Building Teams and developing them to deliver value to the...
How Leaders Can Help Their Teams Build a Life They Love with Mike McFall
May 02, 2022 21:56 - 35 minutes - 48.7 MBTo be better for yourself does not just imply progressing your career and achieving your goals; it may also imply taking on leadership positions and aiding others around you in becoming better versions of themselves while providing a better environment in which to flourish. In this episode, Michael McFall shares his journey from being a barista to becoming the founder of a coffee company to becoming a leader where helping others is a definition of success. Key Takeaways How did a Barista be...
How to lead collaboratively with Simon Mainwaring
November 17, 2021 13:00 - 30 minutes - 42 MBWe must do things differently to create a better future. As the founder and CEO of We First and sought-after international speaker, Simon Mainwaring is focused on helping organizations grow strategically to make a difference in the world. In today’s show, Simon discusses why leading collaboratively and being an agent of change is imperative for future generations. Key Takeaways: 0:00 Intro 0:58 Simon talks about his business WeFirst, his family life, and being from Australia 2:18 Simon tal...
How to Live and Work Authentically with Mike Horne
October 20, 2021 14:06 - 27 minutes - 38 MBIntegrity begins when you align your words and actions. Mike Horne, Ph.D. is an executive coach who works with leaders to design authentic workplaces where employees can thrive. In today’s show, Mike discusses his definition of happiness and how making continual progress is more important than achieving goals. Key Takeaways: 0:00 Intro 1:54 Mike briefly talks about his ideas of what being better means and the three roles he has 3:43 Mike talks about what progress means to different people ...
How to Make a Meaningful Career Pivot with Randy Kurtz
October 13, 2021 16:00 - 27 minutes - 38.1 MBYour purpose is to make a difference. Randy Kurtz is Executive Vice President at Opportunity International where he is focused on improvements to agriculture and education for those living in poverty around the world. In today’s show, Randy shares how he pivoted from a successful career in the restaurant industry to investment banking to founding his organization that is focused on ending extreme poverty for good. Key Takeaways: 0:00 Intro 1:09 Randy gives a brief overview of Opportunity I...
Be An Active Participant in Your Healing with Dr. Justin Lin
October 05, 2021 18:16 - 37 minutes - 51.3 MBPay Attention to the Warning Signs Dr. Justin Lin has worked with professional athletes and celebrities in pioneering the growth and adoption of the Neuromechanical Therapy (NMT) system. In today’s show, Dr. Lin shares his recovery from his addiction to pain medication and why he believes a solid support system and active participation can heal our body, mind, and spirit. Key Takeaways: 0:00 Intro 1:06 Dr. Lin explains Rehab and Revive and a brief overview of their services and years in bu...
How to Overcome Obstacles and Be Better with Steven Jaramillo
September 29, 2021 11:06 - 34 minutes - 48 MBDon’t be afraid to challenge yourself. Steven Jaramillo is a Project Manager at Branded Group overseeing the company’s facility management client work orders. Steven is also a Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve. In today’s show, Steven talks about his career transformation following a divorce and a layoff as well as how his military service was the catalyst to finding his dream job. Key Takeaways: 0:00 Intro 0:23 Steven shares a little bit of history about himself, his divorce, and wha...
How to Make Your Business Bigger Than You with Alix Greenberg
September 20, 2021 13:00 - 30 minutes - 27.7 MBWith an M.A. from Christie's and a BFA from Cornell, ArtSugar founder & CEO Alix Greenberg pivoted from a traditional art career to turn her side business into a full-time effort after her grandmother’s death from pancreatic cancer. In today’s show, Alix shares her entrepreneurial journey and why she believes it’s so important to infuse yourself into your company’s vision and give back to those in need.
Create a Culture of Inclusion and Innovation with Jeff Grass
September 13, 2021 15:38 - 25 minutes - 23.4 MBJeff Grass, Chairman and CEO of HUNGRY is a purpose-driven entrepreneur who has dedicated his career to solving big problems through industry-disrupting technology and high-quality service. In today’s show, Jeff talks about the importance of a solid company culture to attract top talent who want to drive innovative solutions and give back to their community.
Developing Your Higher Self with Nanette Hucknall
September 08, 2021 21:41 - 28 minutes - 25.9 MBNanette V. Hucknall is an award-winning author, psychotherapist, teacher, lecturer and the Founder and President Emeritus of Higher Self Yoga Inc. In today’s show, Nanette shares how each of us can unlock our hidden potential by connecting our hearts, minds, and bodies to unleash creativity, wisdom, and peace.
How to Create an Award-Winning Culture by Putting People First with Jevon McCormick
August 31, 2021 21:39 - 48 minutes - 44.3 MBJeVon McCormick is the President and CEO of Scribe Media, a publishing company that helps individuals from a variety of backgrounds write, publish and market their books. In today’s show, JeVon shares his personal journey as a mixed-raced child from a broken family to creating an award-winning organizational company that puts people first. JeVon also discusses why he doesn’t do words like “wish, hope, or luck.”
How to Overcome Setbacks and Achieve Your Goals with Chris Albert
August 23, 2021 15:08 - 31 minutes - 29 MBChris Albert is a trainer, entrepreneur and US Marine Corps Veteran. As host of The Warrior Soul Podcast, Chris delivers strategies and information to help the US Military Veteran Community. In today’s show, Chris shares how you can pick yourself up after setbacks to achieve your personal and professional goals.
How to Launch a Successful Business by Never Taking No For An Answer” with Michael & Brian Speciale
August 13, 2021 14:10 - 28 minutes - 26.4 MBMichael Speciale and his brother, Brian Speciale, co-founded Cozy Comfort Company LLC in 2017. The brothers invented the patented, wearable blanket The Comfy. In today’s show, they share their experience on Shark Tank, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and why you have to say “no” to the pity party if you want to succeed.
How to Get Excited About Going to Work with Peter Laughter
August 09, 2021 14:10 - 29 minutes - 26.9 MBPeter Laughter is the Founder of True Bearing where he helps senior executives find passion and tell a new story that opens up enlivening career opportunities. In today’s show, Peter discusses the root cause of The Great Resignation and how each of us can find purpose in our work and look forward to Monday mornings.
How to Be Purposefully Philanthropic with Jan Friedlander Svendsen
August 02, 2021 15:06 - 31 minutes - 29 MBJan Friedlander Svendsen, Chief Creative Officer for the Charity Network, has worked on Broadway for 18 years managing the marketing and cause-related programs for the Tony Awards and The Broadway League. In today’s show, Jan shares her experience and passion for giving back, the causes she’s led, and how she was able to take her philanthropic passion to the stages of Broadway.
How Taking Risks Reaps Big Rewards with Anne Corley Baum
July 26, 2021 20:41 - 28 minutes - 26.3 MBAnne Corley Baum is the Lehigh Valley Market President for Capital BlueCross where she leads a network of over 5500 producers and is responsible for the plan’s organized labor customers. In today’s episode, Anne discusses her book series, “Small Mistakes, Big Consequences,” and shares how you can avoid the common behavioral mistakes that can jeopardize your success.
When Tragedy Strikes, Choose to Be Part of the Solution with Scarlett Lewis
July 05, 2021 14:02 - 31 minutes - 29.1 MBScarlett Lewis founded the nonprofit Jesse Lewis Choose Love Movement after her son was murdered during the Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy in December 2012. In today’s show, Scarlett discusses how her decision to choose love, healing, and nurturing, which were inspired by Jesse, launched a worldwide movement that is transforming schools, families, and cities.
Dream Big and Transform Your Life with Meredith Morse
June 28, 2021 13:58 - 38 minutes - 35 MBMeredith Morse, the sister of Michael Kurland and a Transformational Life Coach and Holistic Health Practitioner helps people recognize and transform their limiting beliefs so they can discover their true purpose and passion in life. In today’s show, Meredith shares the pivotal moment that changed her career path and why she believes that when we can change the stories we’ve told ourselves, we can change our lives.
How to Help Kids Find Joy After the Loss of a Loved One with Sara Deren
June 22, 2021 14:32 - 33 minutes - 30.9 MBSara Deren is the founder and CEO of Experience Camps, a leading nonprofit organization that provides grieving children experiences that change their lives forever. Her work helps kids reclaim their childhood by injecting joy and normalcy into their lives. Tune in to learn why Sara believes that a week of camp can transform the lives of kids in crisis.
How to Overcome Your Company’s Beautiful Constraint with Ric Franzi
June 15, 2021 16:44 - 30 minutes - 27.5 MBRic Franzi chairs CEO Peer Groups® and hosts the Critical Mass podcast, the longest-running business podcast in Orange County. Ric speaks to CEOs and business owners on a variety of topics including establishing a “can-if” culture. Tune in to hear why Ric believes that a leader’s mindset and peer group participation have the power to transform organizations.
Discover Your Syntax for Success with Shannon Cassidy
June 07, 2021 14:18 - 29 minutes - 27.4 MBShannon Cassidy is the Founder, President, and driving force behind bridge between inc., a specialized coaching firm committed to understanding, influencing, and maximizing the human potential. Tune in as Shannon discusses her “do-be-have” statements and why she believes generosity is the future of leadership and creating highly effective teams.
Leadership that Leaves a Legacy with Sloane Keane
June 01, 2021 22:06 - 25 minutes - 23.8 MBSloane Keane is the CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County and the Inland Empire. Inspired by the change that the organization was creating locally, Keane joined Big Brothers Big Sisters in 2013 and by 2018, she was named CEO. Tune in to hear why Sloane believes that adult mentors can make a difference and what leaders must do to pave the path forward.
How to Develop Your Organization’s “Why” with Shane Jackson
May 24, 2021 14:35 - 29 minutes - 27 MBShane Jackson is President of Jackson Healthcare, one of the largest providers of telemedicine in the country. Shane strives to improve patient care and positively impact the lives of everyone his organization touches. Tune in today as Shane discusses how he transformed his company culture by understanding its “why” and creating a positive and encouraging atmosphere.
Empathy and Innovation Can Change the World with West Stringfellow
May 14, 2021 14:53 - 43 minutes - 40.2 MBWest Stringfellow leads product management and innovation at scale. Currently West is Founder and CEO of HowDo where he is providing free universal innovation training and an EHF Fellow. In today’s show, West shares his inspiring journey and why he believes that any problem can be solved through innovation, and a dedicated tribe of people who support your vision.
Creating a Miracle Morning Every Morning with Josh Greco
May 10, 2021 20:29 - 26 minutes - 24.7 MBJoshua Greco is a Mindscan-certified business coach for individuals and leadership teams. With over a decade of business development experience in the Logistics and Construction industries, Joshua brings a passion to develop people professionally, personally, and spiritually. In today’s show, Josh discusses how we can all achieve greatness when we let go of self-limiting beliefs and incorporate gratitude into our everyday lives.
A Mom’s Advice on Raising a Child to Be Better with Mike’s Mom, Melody Campbell
May 06, 2021 17:00 - 38 minutes - 34.9 MBMelody Campbell is the mom of Branded Group CEO Michael Kurland. On this special Mother’s Day show, Michael and his mother reminisce about his childhood, sharing family memories guaranteed to make you laugh! Melody has many pearls of wisdom on how to raise a child to BeBetter and why she believes that being a Mom is a privilege.
How to Triumph through Challenges with Marc Julien
May 03, 2021 18:32 - 24 minutes - 22.8 MBMarc Julien is a father on a mission to change the world. He is a stage four cancer survivor, currently training for Race Across America. Marc has taken the lessons learned from overcoming a terminal illness into his calling to support drug research for pediatric cancer. Marc believes that true happiness comes from the authentic connections made with people and living unselfishly to make the world a better place.
Make Better Decisions by Walking In Someone Else’s Shoes with Robert Branca
April 26, 2021 18:09 - 33 minutes - 30.6 MBRobert Branca, Jr., is President, General Counsel, and Director of Development for entities including Branded Management Group and Branded Realty Group. On today’s show, Robert shares how he has kept his turnover rate in his Dunkin’ Donuts franchisees to 30%, an industry phenomenon, by being better to his employees in creative ways.
How to Be Grateful in the Moment with Michelle Wax
April 19, 2021 18:30 - 31 minutes - 28.6 MBMichelle Wax is the Founder of American Happiness Project, a 50-state movement focused on creating more connection, positivity, and joy. On today’s show, Michelle shares her journey of developing her groundbreaking documentary and the unique ways she practices gratitude on a daily basis.
How to do the simple things with focus and energy and intention with Kevin Monroe
April 12, 2021 15:14 - 30 minutes - 27.8 MBKevin Monroe is the host of The Gratitude Challenge and founder of Gratitude Encounters, which are guided explorations and interactive experiences into the practice of gratitude for private groups, companies, and monthly public sessions. On today’s show, Kevin discusses how to enhance your daily gratitude practice by being present and getting more specific about what you makes you most grateful.
How Mindfulness, Gratitude, and Hope Define Purpose with Jennifer Cheavens
April 06, 2021 10:35 - 26 minutes - 24.4 MBJennifer Cheavens, Ph.D. is a Professor and Director of Clinical Training in the Department of Psychology at The Ohio State University where she directs the Mood and Personality Studies research group. Dr. Cheavens has also done several research projects examining the construct of hope and how hope is related to mood and psychological well-being. On today’s show, Jennifer discusses hope theory as a link to our purpose and motivation to give back.
Improve Employee Engagement With Socially-Conscious Giving - Laura Hertz
March 30, 2021 22:49 - 31 minutes - 29.1 MBLaura Hertz is the CEO and Co-Founder of Gifts for Good, an e-commerce gifting website that sells hundreds of gifts that give back. It is the first company of its kind that offers corporate gifts with a social impact. Laura believes that a daily gratitude practice can help you better appreciate what you have as well as increase your awareness of the importance of giving back.
Become a Purpose-Driven Company by Giving Back with Jennifer Bernheim
March 24, 2021 00:54 - 32 minutes - 30.1 MBJennifer Bernheim is the Founder of OnPurpose PR, a boutique public relations consultancy created for companies that align purpose with profit. OnPurpose PR partners with CEOs to design and implement authentic give-back initiatives that drive employee engagement and retention, increase customer loyalty, and truly make a difference.
Happiness Leads to Healthy Living with Dr. Gillian Mandich
March 13, 2021 18:52 - 39 minutes - 35.8 MBDr. Gillian Mandich is an expert in the study of happiness and health. As the founder of The International Happiness Institute of Health Science Research, scientist, and sought-after speaker, she is on a mission to help people live their happiest life.
Gratitude and a Side of Pasta with Chris Schembra
March 09, 2021 15:50 - 36 minutes - 33.2 MBChris Schembra is the bestselling author of "Gratitude and Pasta: The Secret Sauce for Human Connection," which chronicles his adventures as one of the most sought-after dinner hosts in the world. Chris shares his passion for helping people to be grateful through his evidence-based proven framework that guarantees positive emotional transformation.
When You’re Consistently Grateful, You Can Change Your Life - with Scott Simon
March 01, 2021 17:19 - 31 minutes - 28.9 MBScott Simon is President of North Pointe Realty and founder of Scare Your Soul, a global courage movement that seeks to inspire small acts of courage every day. Scott believes that a consistent practice of gratitude enables us to deepen our relationships and leads to a happier and more fulfilling life.
Change Your Perspective through Gratitude with Darin Hollingsworth
February 22, 2021 20:10 - 28 minutes - 25.7 MBDarin Hollingsworth is Chief Gratitude and Accountability Officer and host of the Working Gratitude podcast. He is passionate about helping successful professionals realize and exceed their personal and professional potential through accountability, kindness, and gratitude.
Michael Kurland Shares Gratitude for 7 Years in Business
February 15, 2021 17:24 - 14 minutes - 13.1 MBMichael Kurland reflects on how gratitude, giving back, delegating, and building authentic relationships have all helped to grow the company that he founded.