Geeks, Geezers, and Googlization Show

In an ever-turbulent world where technology speeds ahead and the economy is a rollercoaster of disruption, this episode of "Geeks, Geezers & Googlization" brings you a critical conversation that slices through the noise. Host Ira S Wolfe, joined by a power panel including Wall Street leaders Mat Van Alstyne, Jim Toes, and John Aidan Byrne dives deep into the seismic shifts rattling the financial services and labor markets.

The conversation covers topics from faith and politics to AI, jobs, and immigration. It's a candid discussion that cuts through the noise, offering fresh perspectives on how businesses, leaders, and workers can adapt to the shifting realities of 2024-2025.

Here are just a few of the thought-provoking and insightful nuggets you'll hear:

1. The global economy's landscape is shifting so fast, that looking away for a second might mean you've missed a continental drift. Goodbye Europe-centric, hello Asia and Africa!

2. The current economy is a puzzle. Market highs contrast worries about government debt and sustainability. What's your take on this?

3. Immigration's weight on America's job scales is tough to ignore, with everyone from slaughterhouses to Silicon Valley buzzing about its impact.

4. AI's rapid growth demands a pause for thought. Privacy and security issues are at stake as we soar towards a tech-dominated future.

5. Sure, the stock market's hitting some sweet highs, but the health of the economy? Don't believe everything you hear—opinions are split.

6. A tiptoe into the political realm reveals that religion and old-school values are tossing in their two cents on societal strife.

7. Colleges are closing, and trades are rising. Education's response to market demands is shifting. How will this transition affect our workforce?

In addition to our Odeon Capital Conversations regulars Mat Van Alstyne and John Aidan Byrne, Jim Toes is a special guest.

Jim Toes is President and CEO of the Security Traders Association (STA), a grassroots trade organization that serves individuals employed in the financial services industry. He also was a candidate in New York's third Congressional district to replace ousted Rep. George Santos.

Mat Van Alstyne is Co-Founder and Managing Partner, of Odeon Capital Group, a New York-based independent Broker-Dealer with trading, investment banking, and research services,

John Aidan Byrne is an experienced Wall Street business journalist and editor and successful podcast host and producer. He hosts the successful Odeon Capital Conversations podcast as well as the popular Dig Life Deep podcast on which I visit each episode for an update on Future Shock 2.0.

Mattering is more than just warm & fuzzy. It's the game-changing new management skill set for the age of AI, a blueprint for navigating the wilds of Never Normal.

After diving deep into the conversation between Ira Wolfe and Zach Mercurio, here are ten nuggets that'll reshape how you think about finding significance in your work and creating an environment where you truly matter.

1. It's not just about what you do; it's about who you are at work.

2. Find your unique problem-solving groove! There's this sweet spot where your talents meet the world's needs, and it's your job to hunt it down—with a little help from your mentors, of course.

3. So, you're the boss? Make your space a no-judgment zone for trial and error. Cultivate fertile ground for growth and innovation.

4. Here's the kicker: our lives have both function and form. Employers, don't just crunch numbers—get to grips with the real-life design behind your employees to keep that workplace buzzing.

5. Humans are your job! Helping people feel like they matter is every leader and manager's most important skill set.

6. Leadership 101: Leaders need to be the role models of the personal growth they want to see in their people. Own your oopsies and nurture your team's well-being.

7. People with purpose pack the mightiest punch: it's not all soft and fluffy; it's strategically rational to leverage emotional intelligence.

8. The secret sauce to resilience? Believe it or not, it's self-belief, purpose, and relationships, not just gritting your teeth and barreling through.

9. Learn why self-awareness isn't enough. It's self-efficacy that really makes a difference.

10. Why asking youngsters "what do you want to be" is a really dumb question.

More about Zach Mercurio: https://zachmercurio.com

Buy The Invisible Leader:

After listening in on the eye-opening conversation between GGG Unleashed host Vivian Blade and her guest Annetta Hunter, you'll hear about strategies to revolutionize employee well-being in the workplace, uncover the truth behind employer responsibility, the shared role in well-being, and the must-know tips for boosting employee mental resilience.

Here are 4 of the many key takeaways about employee well-being, workplace resilience, and the impact on organizations.

1. It's not just about having wellness services in your benefits package; employers also need to actively prioritize and support employee well-being to drive a resilient and productive workforce.

2. Many employees don't fully utilize existing well-being resources due to barriers like time constraints, confusion, and stigma, signaling the need to make wellness programs more accessible and engaging.

3. Addressing mental well-being issues in the workplace is essential to prevent the domino effect of stress-related absenteeism, workload escalations, and decreased employee engagement.

4. The impact of employee well-being on organizational success goes beyond just productivity and engagement, emphasizing the need for employers to view it as a valuable investment rather than just another budget item.

Annetta Hunter is CEO, founder, and Chief Wellness Officer of WellNow Connect.

Warning: The future of Accounting is on a thrilling ride. Discover a world where technology is shaking the very foundations of old-school number crunching! In this episode, we dive headfirst into the whirlwind of change gripping the accounting profession. Whether you're a CPA, C-Suite executive, business owner, or aspiring accountant, after listening to this episode, you might be reeling from the burst of knowledge bombs Jody Padar and Bill Keller drop.

Here are a few takeaways that'll get you thinking about AI, the future of accounting, and those coveted soft skills.

1. AI and automation are more than just buzzwords; they're the new rivals in the accounting arena.

2. The seismic shift in pricing models - every figure and forecast is under the microscope.

3. Think AI and Automation will eliminate staffing shortages? Think again!

3. Adapting to change isn't just a survival tactic; it's a competitive sport in which only the most agile contestants win and competition pops up in the most unexpected ways.

3 Ledger Lines to Ponder:

- "Rethink, retool, reprice – it's the accountant's new mantra." – Jody Padar

- "Technology is the symphony, but people are still the composers." – Bill Keller

- "Forget what we know, the future of finance is a brand new show." – Ira S Wolfe

Resources:

Jody Padar, The Radical CPA, https://www.linkedin.com/in/jody-padar-18a9711/

Bill Keller, Staffing Global https://staffingdifferent.com

Recommended Reading:

Radical Pricing (Keep an eye out for Jody Padar's upcoming book—Spring 2024)

The World Is Flat, https://www.amazon.com/World-Flat-3-0-History-Twenty-first/dp/0312425074/ref=sr_1_1

The 4-Day Workweek,

https://www.amazon.com/4-Hour-Workweek-Expanded-Updated-Cutting-Edge-ebook/dp/B002WE46UW/ref=sr_1_1

The Goal, https://www.amazon.com/Goal-Process-Ongoing-Improvement/dp/0884271951/ref=sr_1_1

Unveiling Creativity is Joe Serio's latest GGG Unleashed podcast episode on which he dives deep into the power of creativity and courage with Dennis Welch. From finding the courage to change directions in your career to identifying your inner talents, Joe and Dennis explore the transformative journey of chasing your dreams. Discover why waiting for inspiration is just a myth and how embracing the process leads to true creativity. After catching this episode, here are ten game-changing insights we picked up about creativity, courage, work, and finding your true path in life:

1. Creativity is about having the nerve to listen to that little voice in your head telling you something isn't right. It takes guts to acknowledge that and step into the unknown.

2. Sometimes, the courage to walk through the door of opportunity is even more important than the door itself. It's about embracing change and taking a leap of faith.

3. Embracing change involves finding the inner strength to step away from the safety net and follow your true calling, even if it seems scary and uncertain.

4. The journey to your true purpose starts from within, with questions like "who am I?" and "what do I want?" lighting the way like headlights on a dark road.

5. Pursuing your passion, even if it doesn't immediately bring in big bucks, can become addictive and transform the way you approach work and life.

After tuning into this episode with the fascinating back-and-forth between Ira Wolfe, Gad Levanon, and Chris Borick, here are ten eye-opening takeaways about the future of work, AI, jobs, the economy and the 2024 election.

1. The job market's super tight and there aren't enough new workers coming in – so, what's that going to mean for our paychecks and work life down the road?

2. AI is taking over jobs quicker than ever, and it's not just cashiers and assembly line workers feeling the heat—white-collar pros, watch out too!

3. The rise of AI could mean even folks with fancy degrees might find themselves struggling to keep up in the job market if they're not careful.

4. Everyone's trying to figure out how to deal with all the new AI tech stuff without causing a mess, especially in jobs and schools

5. The job shifts that AI is causing could mix up who votes for whom, making for some unexpected political mash-ups.

6. The image of which political party is 'for the people' and which is 'for the elite' is getting a complete makeover, and that's changing game plans across battleground states like Pennsylvania.

7. Depending on where you live, you might see the economy totally differently. Some places are booming, while others feel like they're on a never-ending downslide.

8. With all this AI-generated fake news, it's getting trickier to figure out what to believe, and that's a big deal for anyone trying to take the temperature of public opinion.

9. Even though the US economy looks like it's on fire with growth, it's not as simple as good news equals happy voters—there's a lot more going on beneath the surface.

The chat on the podcast drives home the point that we need to live the future on a swivel, being able to go with the flow, constantly learning new stuff, and not being constrained by the past.

Resources:

Institute of Public Opinion at Muhlenberg College: https://www.muhlenberg.edu/aboutus/polling/

Dr. Christopher Borick: https://www.muhlenberg.edu/academics/polisci/ourfacultystaff/christopherborick/

Burning Glass Institute: https://burningglassinstitute.com

Gad Levanon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gad-levanon-3b9b933/

Buckle up folks for another wild ride. In this episode, we chat with BetterUp's Founding Head and Chief Innovation Officer Gabriela Rosen Kellerman. And trust me, it's a game-changer!

We take a deep dive into Gabriela's new book "TomorrowMind," co-authored with the legendary father of "positive psychology." And guess what? We also tackle the big AI question – how's it reshaping our jobs and what can we do about it?

A few of the biggest takeaways include:

1. The Future Workforce Toolkit: Ever wondered what it takes to not just survive, but THRIVE in the ever-spinning world of work? Gabriela's got the secret sauce: A mix of prospection, resilience, innovation, social connection, and mattering. Imagine weaving these into your team's DNA – unstoppable, right?

2. Back to the Future with Hunter-Gatherers: Think our ancient ancestors can't teach us a thing or two about today's workplace? Think again! We're talking trust, creativity, and collaboration – hunter-gatherer style. It's time to unleash that inner innovator.

3. EAPs: Not Your Grandma's Employee Program: EAPs are getting a major facelift. Forget just cutting healthcare costs – we're talking career transformation support systems here. It's like having a career GPS for those bumpy roads ahead.

Plus, get this – resilience and well-being aren't just feel-good factors; they're the new currency for corporate success. We're talking stock prices, performance, you name it.

So, plug in, turn up the volume, and join us in shaping a workplace that's not just ready for the future but leaps ahead of it.

Catch all this and more on this replay from one of the most popular episodes in 2023. Let's do it!

Join "Beyond the Office" host Bill Keller and esteemed business coach Jim Wall as they dive deep into the art of leading and cultivating remote teams with global staff. This conversation is a treasure trove of insights, emphasizing the significance of:

1. Cultivating a Growth Culture: Discover strategies to foster a thriving environment of learning and development within remote teams.

2. Curiosity as a Catalyst: Embrace curiosity not just as a trait but as a powerful tool for both personal and professional evolution.

3. Decoding Overseas Hiring: Lift the veil on the unknowns and explore the exciting realm of global staffing.

4. Communication is Key: Learn why clear, direct communication is the cornerstone of effective remote work dynamics.

5. Coaching's Transformative Power: Unearth how coaching can ignite individual potential, bridging cultural and geographic divides.

Don't miss this opportunity to equip yourself with the tools for success in the global remote workspace. Tune in and transform your approach to leadership and team building in a remote world

In this episode, we reached into the GGG vault to revisit a compelling conversation with Jason Feifer, Editor in Chief of Entrepreneur Magazine and author of "Build for Tomorrow." We dive into the importance of adaptability, finding one's unchanging core in an ever-changing world, and building for tomorrow rather than clinging to the comfort of the status quo. Join us as we explore the four phases of change, the value of seeking feedback for improvement, and the impact of the pandemic on innovation and adaptability. Plus, learn about Jason Feifer's insights from his conversation with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and how his book provides long-lasting resources for building a thriving future. Don't miss this engaging episode packed with valuable takeaways. Tune in now!

Here are the key takeaways from this fast paced, engaging discussion!

1. Find Your Unchanging Core: Jason Feifer emphasized the importance of building for tomorrow by finding your unchanging core in an ever-changing environment. Thriving in the future of work means adapting to changing needs while staying true to your purpose.
2. Making a Shift: Feifer shared the story of Lena, a business owner who adapted her operations during the pandemic, leading to increased sales and customer satisfaction. Recognizing better ways of doing things, even before a crisis, is essential for future success.
3. Embracing Change: The pandemic has forced people and businesses to innovate and adapt. It's crucial to understand the four stages of change - panic, adaptation, new normal, and realizing you wouldn't go back. Adapting to change is the most important skill for success.
4. Building For Tomorrow: Feifer's book, "Build for Tomorrow," encourages readers to focus on purpose and understanding how to continue being relevant rather than building for yesterday. The key is to seek feedback for improvement and to consider the future's unknown unknowns.
5. Seeking Feedback: Both hosts and Jason Feifer agreed on the value of seeking input for improvement. Understanding what is not known and embracing feedback are essential for thriving in the future of work, and for personal and professional growth.

Bonus: Co-Host Jason Cochran reveals what science now reveals why people are so fearful of the future!

Do you dread your job? Do you feel stuck? Join Joe Serio and his guest Dennis Welch, in the 1st episode of their 3 part series, as they dive into a captivating discussion about creativity, resilience, and finding your true place in the workplace. In this episode, Dennis shares his wealth of experience, from his role in the corporate world to writing over 500 songs, and brings invaluable insights that will transform the way you perceive work and life.

Here are just 3 fascinating insights and takeaways:

🚀 Self-Discovery is Key: Only 20% of people report doing what they do best every day at work. It all starts with self-discovery. Take the time to proactively figure out who you are, find out your strengths, and understand what truly drives you.

🤝 Supportive Leadership Matters: Having a leader who is unselfish and encourages you to pursue roles that align with your strengths can be transformative. Sometimes, getting "off the bus" can lead to finding the right path that truly resonates with your passion and abilities.

💡 Reframing is Resilience: Reframing your view of challenges and setbacks can lead to unexpected opportunities. Embracing failure as a stop for introspection and envisioning what's really happening presents a chance to uncover hidden potential and drive creativity in your path forward.

Whether you're wondering what's on the other side of that door of opportunity or you're asking yourself "is this all there is?", then you won't want to miss the next episode of The Whole You: Work, Home, Life when Joe Serio and Dennis Welch continue their conversation about the importance of creativity in living life to your full potential. Joe and Dennis will be back next month as they describe what it feels like to leave the "shores of safety" and embrace the thrill of new opportunities