In this episode of the Everyday Business Problems podcast, Dave Crysler welcomes back Casey Winans, founder and CEO of Full Stride, to discuss the critical decision of whether to buy or build software solutions for warehouse management systems. Drawing on over 20 years of experience, Casey shares insights into the challenges of custom development, the benefits of off-the-shelf software, and how clarity in process flows can make or break implementation success. This episode is packed with practical advice for business leaders navigating this complex decision.

What You'll Discover:

• Key factors to consider when deciding between buying or building software.
• The hidden costs and risks of custom software development, including maintenance and security.
• Why clarity in process flows and organizational requirements is essential before implementing technology.
• Real-world examples of businesses that successfully navigated the buy-vs-build decision.
• How poor documentation and brain drain can derail in-house software projects.
• The importance of aligning technology decisions with long-term business strategies.

In this solo episode of the Everyday Business Problems podcast, Dave Crysler explores the vital role of administration systems in retaining top talent and fostering organizational growth. By focusing on planning, people, processes, and technology, Dave provides actionable strategies for assessing and improving the systems that support your workforce. Whether you're a small business or a growing organization, this episode offers insights to help you bridge gaps and create sustainable processes.

What You'll Discover:

• The four key elements of administration systems: planning, people, processes, and technology.
• Why regular reviews and updates to employee manuals, organizational charts, and job descriptions are essential.
• The importance of defining success within roles to enhance clarity, consistency, and accountability.
• How standard operating procedures (SOPs) support roles and responsibilities and improve workplace efficiency.
• Tips for auditing your current systems to identify and close gaps in your processes.
• Strategies for smaller organizations using outsourced HR services to maintain strong administration systems.

In this solo episode of the Everyday Business Problems podcast, Dave Crysler introduces his three-part framework for achieving sustainable business growth: Clarity, Consistency, and Accountability. Dave dives into the importance of clear communication, defined roles and responsibilities, and structured processes to drive organizational success. With actionable insights and real-world examples, this episode offers a practical roadmap for leaders looking to enhance efficiency and accountability within their teams.

What You'll Discover:

• How the framework of Clarity, Consistency, and Accountability drives sustainable growth.
• The importance of auditing standard operating procedures (SOPs) and updating them regularly.
• Why clear job descriptions, including definitions of success, are critical for team alignment.
• Practical tips for improving organizational communication and collaboration across departments.
• How to bridge the gap between leadership expectations and team execution.
• Steps for conducting an organizational audit to identify areas for improvement.

In this solo episode of the Everyday Business Problems podcast, Dave Crysler explores the best business mapping tools and techniques to optimize workflows and drive continuous improvement. Dave unpacks the key differences between process mapping and value stream mapping, highlighting their unique purposes and benefits. Whether you're looking to streamline operations, improve quality, or increase collaboration, this episode offers actionable insights and practical tools to get started.

What You'll Discover:

• The difference between process mapping and value stream mapping, and when to use each.
• Why starting with manual tools like sticky notes and legal pads can lead to better results.
• How mapping activities facilitate collaboration and uncover hidden inefficiencies.
• Recommended software tools, including Lucidchart and Visio, for collaborative mapping.
• Practical tips for leveraging business mapping tools in small businesses.
• Why the collective brainpower of your team is critical for successful process improvement.

In this final episode of the Everyday Business Problems podcast for 2024, Dave Crysler wraps up the year with Volume 5 of the "Best of 2024" series. This collection features standout moments and actionable insights from episodes on change management, company culture, and operational excellence. If you're looking to set your business up for success in 2025, this episode delivers practical advice and strategies to implement immediately.

What You'll Discover:

• The importance of addressing the "why" and "what" before the "how" in change management initiatives.
• How company culture impacts sales, marketing, and employee morale, with insights from Kelly Mallozzi.
• The role of cross-generational and cross-functional teams in solving business challenges and fostering innovation.
• Why focusing on effectiveness over efficiency is the key to achieving operational excellence.

In this forth volume of the "Best of 2024" series on the Everyday Business Problems podcast, Dave Crysler showcases standout moments and insights from the year's most impactful episodes. Covering topics from onboarding and lean transformations to fiduciary risk management, this compilation delivers actionable advice and powerful lessons for business leaders, HR professionals, and operational teams.

What You'll Discover:

• The importance of post-hire onboarding and how it ensures long-term success for new hires.
• How lean transformations simplify workflows and empower employees to perform at their best.
• Practical strategies for implementing visual management and continuous improvement tools.
• Key insights into fiduciary risk and how to protect your business from liability through proactive processes.
• Why understanding your team's values and building flexibility into the workplace attracts and retains top talent.

In this special volume of the "Best of 2024" series on the Everyday Business Problems podcast, Dave Crysler revisits key moments and highlights from some of the most impactful episodes of the year. From uncovering hidden inefficiencies to embracing continuous improvement and retaining top talent, this episode is packed with valuable lessons for business leaders striving to optimize operations and lead with purpose.

What You'll Discover:

• The importance of addressing hidden inefficiencies by adopting a systems-thinking perspective.
• How effective communication can bridge gaps and eliminate redundant processes in any organization.
• Insights into the power of Kaizen and continuous improvement across various business functions.
• Lessons from Steve Penkala on how flexibility and creativity can attract and retain top talent in today's workforce.
• Practical tips on using employee referrals and understanding team values to foster a positive work culture.

In this special year-end episode of the Everyday Business Problems podcast, Dave Crysler revisits some of the most impactful moments from 2024. These curated clips highlight key insights into critical topics such as the risks of over-specializing business systems, the hidden costs of efficiency, and the nuances of leadership styles. Whether you're tackling operational challenges or seeking inspiration to refine your approach, this episode delivers practical advice and thought-provoking stories to guide your journey.

What You'll Discover:

• The long-term risks of over-specializing business systems and how to avoid them.
• The hidden costs of efficient systems, including employee burnout and technology complications.
• Insights into authoritative vs. authoritarian leadership styles and their impact on organizational culture.
• Lessons learned from major brands like Chipotle about leadership, value perception, and customer satisfaction.
• Why collaboration and clear direction are essential to effective leadership in today's workplace.

In this special year-end episode of the Everyday Business Problems podcast, Dave Crysler revisits some of the most impactful moments from 2024. From finding the balance in quality management to eliminating downtime, Dave reflects on lessons learned and shares insights into creating sustainable improvement across various business functions. This episode features highlights from earlier conversations, offering practical advice for business leaders and operators alike.

What You'll Discover:

• The importance of balancing cost and customer value in quality management.
• How zero defects can apply to both product and service-based businesses.
• The role of leadership in creating cultures that foster continuous improvement.
• Key takeaways from the 8 wastes of lean manufacturing and how to apply them in non-manufacturing settings.
• Practical examples of how businesses can use cycles of improvement to drive efficiency and eliminate downtime.
• Why leadership with empathy and care leads to higher productivity and employee engagement.

In this episode of the Everyday Business Problems podcast, Dave Crysler is joined by Michael DeLon,The Credibility Coach™ and President of Paperback Expert, to discuss the power of storytelling in marketing and personal branding. Michael, an expert in credibility marketing, shares how business owners can leverage their unique stories to stand out in crowded markets. From publishing books to creating effective lead magnets, Michael breaks down actionable strategies that help business owners gain more clients, build trust, and grow their revenue. This episode is packed with inspiring examples and practical advice for anyone looking to differentiate themselves and build credibility.

What You'll Discover:

• The importance of storytelling in creating a powerful and unique marketing message.
• How to uncover and share your personal story to connect with your audience.
• Insights into the book publishing process and how it can position you as an expert in your field.
• Strategies for crafting lead magnets that attract and engage your ideal clients.
• The role of credibility in marketing and how to measure it using Michael's Credibility Calculator.
• Why authenticity and being yourself are key to building trust and long-term relationships.
• Real-life examples of businesses that successfully used storytelling to stand out in their industries.