Episode 257 (Summer is based in Washington DC)

1. Why traditional mentorship models are no longer effective in today’s multigenerational workforce

2. How a horizontal mentorship model fosters mutual respect and learning

3. The psychological need for belonging and how it fuels engagement at work

4. How ego can sabotage collaboration, communication, and innovation

5. How Core Mentorship Solutions creates inclusive mentorship systems

6. Why generational stereotypes hinder productivity and retention

7. How to identify whether your organization needs a new mentorship approach

8. The critical role of intentional onboarding and communication

9. How cross-generational dialogue drives creativity and innovation

10. The power of message delivery—how tone, timing, and framing affect outcomes

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About our guest, Summer Watson:

Summer Watson is the owner of KORE Women, which supports companies to develop thriving cross-generational leadership and mentorship programs fostering healthy and sustainable communities.

KORE stands for

Kinetically connect,

Organically learn from one another,

Reshape lives through diverse interaction,

Empower one another to promote change,

Learn more about Summer Watson and KORE at

https://www.korewomen.com

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In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/

https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills

https://www.instagram.com/georgetorok/

Episode 256 (Mike is based in Canmore, Alberta)

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In this conversation we explore:

• The difference between workplace culture and humor—and how humor supports culture.

• Why culture is a company’s number one competitive advantage.

• The visible and invisible signs of strong or weak workplace culture.

• The impact of leadership on shaping and sustaining culture.

• Why every employee contributes to culture—not just HR or leadership.

• How intentional values and small behaviors shape long-term culture.

• The difference between healthy and toxic conflict at work.

• Simple, practical ways to assess and improve workplace culture.

• How humor, rituals, and fun foster psychological safety and team connection.

• The concept of an "umbrella value" and its influence on decision-making.

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About our guest, Michael Kerr:

Mike is the author of 9 books, including, The Jerk-Free Workplace, The Humor Advantage and Small Moments, Big Outcomes: How Leaders Create Cultures That Fuel Extraordinary Results.

Learn more about Mike Kerr, his services and books at https://mikekerr.com/

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1. Culture is a Competitive Advantage

   • Culture impacts productivity, retention, customer loyalty, and overall performance more than strategy alone.

2. Mojo Matters

   • Mojo is the vibe or energy of a workplace—it can be felt and should be maintained intentionally.

3. Humor Fuels Culture

   • Humor isn’t fluff; it builds psychological safety, encourages engagement, and reduces burnout.

4. Leadership Sets the Tone

   • Leaders act as culture conductors. Their words, mood, and mindset ripple through teams.

5. Everyone Owns Culture

   • Culture isn’t HR’s job alone. Every employee contributes to culture in every interaction.

6. Small Moments Have Big Outcomes

   • A culture is shaped more by consistent small gestures than by grand slogans or posters.

7. Define and Live Your Values

   • Real values are reflected in daily decisions, not corporate posters. Misaligned values create cynicism.

8. Conflict is Inevitable—Make It Constructive

   • Healthy cultures allow disagreement without blame or fear. Psychological safety matters.

9. Assess Culture With Gut Checks and Simple Questions

   • Ask: Would you recommend this workplace to a friend? What’s one thing you’d change?

10. Culture Attracts Talent

• Great cultures draw top talent. But to win them, you must showcase culture honestly and creatively.

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/

https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills

https://www.instagram.com/georgetorok/

Episode 255 (Carl is based in Gananoque, Ontario)

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In this conversation, we explore:

1. The evolution from radio to podcasting—what changed, what remained.

2. The core differences between scheduled radio and on-demand podcasting.

3. Why defining your podcast’s purpose is the most important first step.

4. The myth of instant podcast success and what to expect as a beginner.

5. Why your podcast will (and should) evolve over time.

6. How to handle tough or off-topic interview questions with grace.

7. What makes a podcast guest truly engaging and memorable.

8. The secret to crafting effective sound bites for reels and audiograms.

9. Lessons learned from 25 years in broadcasting—and how they apply today.

10. Why podcasting is the new “book tour” for subject-matter experts.

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About our guest, Carl Richards:

Carl has spent more that 25 years behind the microphone, on radio and on stage, entertaining and influencings audiences worldwide.

He's a 3 time bestselling author, International Speaker, TEDx speaker, emcee and podcast host. He's the founder and CEO of Podcast Solutions Made Simple.

Want help to launch and polish your podcast? Visit PodcastSolutionsMadeSimple.com

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1. Podcasting is on-demand, radio is scheduled The flexibility of podcasting suits today’s consumer behavior better than traditional radio.

2. Start your podcast with clarity of purpose Many beginners skip this—understanding the "why" of your show is foundational.

3. It’s okay—and smart—to evolve your podcast Goals can shift, formats can change, and that’s part of the process.

4. Your first 10 episodes will probably suck—and that’s normal Skill and confidence develop over time with practice.

5. There are no rules in podcasting—but there are smart suggestions Format, length, and style are flexible. The key is knowing your audience and message.

6. Deflecting tough or irrelevant questions is a skill You can stay assertive without being aggressive when you don’t have the answer.

7. Preparation is key—know your host and their style Doing homework helps avoid surprises and builds trust.

8. Sound bites need human judgment Algorithms can’t always pick the best clips. Listen and choose what resonates.

9. Credibility comes from consistency and authenticity Be yourself, be present, and bring your best self to the mic.

10. Podcasting helps subject-matter experts elevate their brand In today’s world, a podcast may be more relevant than writing a book.

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/

https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills

https://www.instagram.com/georgetorok/

Episode 254 (David is based in Salt Lake City, Utah)

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In this conversation we explore…

1. Why traditional accounting fails to protect small businesses.

2. How cash flow differs from accounting and why it matters more.

3. The danger of relying on profit and loss statements alone.

4. How to recognize early warning signs of cash trouble.

5. Why even profitable companies run out of money.

6. The mindset shift needed to forecast financial stability.

7. The power of the 13-week cash flow model.

8. How to calculate and build sufficient cash reserves.

9. The role of risk in financial planning and survival.

10. How strategic timing of payments protects your cash.

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About our guest David Safeer:

David has done business in over 40 countries. He restructured a Fortune 100 company from years of losses to profitability in one year.

He is known as the Unconventional Cash Flow Guy.

Improve your cash flow with a free copy of his ebook, "24 Profit Strategies for Business Success" at http://cic60.com/

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1. Accounting ≠ Cash Flow: Accounting reports don’t reflect the cash available.

2. Cash Flow Conversations Are Rare but Critical: Business owners often focus on revenue/expenses and overlook cash movement.

3. Symptoms vs. Root Causes: Issues like payroll trouble often stem from deeper systems or margin problems.

4. The P&L Illusion: A profit on paper doesn’t mean there’s cash in the bank.

5. Modeling Is a Lifesaver: The 13-week cash flow model helps foresee challenges.

6. Mental Game of Money: Cash flow stress impacts decision-making and sleep.

7. Cash Reserves Save Businesses: A few weeks of reserves can prevent shutdown.

8. Cash Flow Needs Monitoring: Weekly modeling can prevent surprises.

9. Accountants Aren’t Always Experts in Cash: Many don’t understand or prioritize it.

10. Liquidity from Hidden Assets: Inventory and unused assets can become emergency cash.

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/

https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills

https://www.instagram.com/georgetorok/

Episode 253 (Lesley is based in Monterey, California)

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In this conversation, we explore…

1. …why executive branding goes far beyond personal image or a logo.

2. …how to define what you want to be known for—and why that matters.

3. …why an integrated branding approach across a team amplifies leadership impact.

4. …the internal journey of discovering your authentic self as a leader.

5. …how mindset shifts influence executive presence and performance.

6. …strategies for embracing positive feedback and building inner confidence.

7. …how reframing “weaknesses” as overplayed strengths can reshape self-perception.

8. …how to align your personal brand with corporate values without losing authenticity.

9. …the importance of curiosity, clarity, and critical questioning in communication.

10. …how to establish your leadership brand when stepping into a new role.

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About our guest Lesley Everett:

Lesley is an Executive Branding Specialist. She is the author of three books. She was president of the Global Speakers Federation in 2014. She is the first female speaker to be awarded the UK Speaker Hall of Fame.

She has appeared on TV as a guest and host on BBC News, Sky News, CNBC, Fox News and Bloomberg.

Learn more about Lesley and her programs at https://lesleyeverett.com/

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1. Integrated executive branding includes both the individual and their team for meaningful impact.

2. Personal branding is not about a logo, but about what you’re known for and how people describe you.

3. Executive presence must be built on authenticity, visibility, and clarity—not surface polish.

4. Many leaders lack awareness of their true identity and core strengths, often due to imposter syndrome.

5. Mindset change drives behavior and action—but starts with understanding one's purpose.

6. Leaders should learn to accept and internalize positive feedback instead of dismissing it.

7. So-called “weaknesses” are often overplayed strengths—a reframing that boosts confidence.

8. Leaders must be able to sum up their brand in a few authentic, outcome-focused words.

9. The personal and corporate brand can coexist—alignment comes from interpreting company values personally.

10. Sustainable growth requires continuous reflection and action—branding is an evolving journey.

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/

https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills

https://www.instagram.com/georgetorok/

Episode 252 (Robin is based in the UK)

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In this conversation, we explore:

• Why so many business owners undercharge—and how to fix it

• How fear of rejection limits pricing and profitability

• The fastest path to growing your business (hint: it’s not more marketing)

• What it really means to sell results instead of services

• How to confidently handle pricing conversations

• The emotional dynamics of selling and buying

• Why shouting into the void (aka social media) doesn’t work

• The five stages of market awareness every buyer goes through

• How to identify client pain points and use them in messaging

• How to build a business model that’s both sustainable and scalable

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About our guest, Robin Waite:

Robin is founder of Fearless Business and author of "Take Your Shot" a guide to grow your business, attract more clients ad make more money.

He has surfed 12 foot waves in Morocco and ridden his bicycle downhill at 52.5 mph.

You can get your free hard copy of his book at https://www.fearless.biz/tys

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1. Raising prices is often the fastest path to growth

2. Most businesses undercharge and oversell features instead of outcomes

3. Emotional resonance is essential in sales conversations

4. Fear of rejection holds back price increases

5. Sales and pricing confidence grows through practice

6. Prospects go through five stages of awareness – don’t rush the sale

7. Your messaging should speak more about the client than yourself

8. Identify and speak to client pain points clearly

9. Marketing is more effective when it follows structure, not desperation

10. It’s crucial to communicate the ROI in client terms – money, time, or fulfillment

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/

https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills

https://www.instagram.com/georgetorok/

Episode 251 (Craig is based in Grand Rapids Michigan)

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In this conversation with Craig Mattson we explore:

• Why acknowledging digital overwhelm is the first step toward healthier communication.

• The limitations of digital minimalism and the need for digital flexibility.

• Six communication modes professionals rely on to cope with digital stress.

• The importance of understanding your default communication style.

• How to avoid contributing to others’ communication overload.

• Simple techniques to reset a failed conversation.

• Why switching between communication modes helps maintain humanity in digital spaces.

• The power of treating all communication as a gift — even criticism.

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About our guest Craig Mattson:

Craig is the author of "Digital Overwhelm". He writes, researches and teaches at Calvin University.

You can buy his book, Digital Overwhelm here.

Learn more about his programs and register for his newsletter here

https://www.themodeswitch.com/

https://www.digitaloverwhelm.com/

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1. Acknowledge the Overwhelm

   • Being overwhelmed by digital inputs is normal; the first step is admitting it.

2. Digital Flexibility vs. Digital Minimalism

   • Minimalism helps, but flexibility is key to adapting and connecting with others.

3. Avoid Contributing to Others' Overwhelm

   • Be mindful of how your communication style might stress others.

4. Understand Your Default Communication Mode

   • Everyone has a go-to style (e.g., long emails, verbal advocacy) — know yours and its limitations.

5. Adapt Your Style to the Listener’s Needs

   • Match your message delivery to where the audience is emotionally and mentally.

6. Communication as a Social Issue

   • Digital overload isn’t just individual; it’s a workplace-wide challenge that requires collective responses.

7. Mode Switching as a Skill

   • Learn to shift between styles: emailing, saying, signaling, advocating, meaning, and fixing.

8. Reflect on Communication Experiences

   • Journaling or debriefing helps improve future interactions.

9. Communication as a Gift

   • Even criticism can be seen as a gift — shifting mindset opens deeper dialogue.

10. Be Willing to Start Again

• When conversations derail, it’s okay to pause and restart with clearer intent.

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----more----

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/

https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills

https://www.instagram.com/georgetorok/