the Learn-It-All™ podcast

Radical ownership isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the foundation that separates authentic leaders from accidental ones. On this inspiring episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, Damon sits down with Matt Drinkhahn—entrepreneur, bestselling author, business coach, and host of the Eternal Optimist podcast—to explore the power of radical ownership and resilience. Drawing from his life-altering accident and career in coaching high performers, Matt Drinkhahn unpacks the mindset shifts it takes to turn adversity into opportunity. From recovering after an identity-shattering injury to navigating layoffs and rebuilding careers, this episode is a masterclass in grit, gratitude, and leadership by example. 

Packed with raw stories, actionable tools, and hard-earned wisdom, you’ll find out why slowing down, letting go, and practicing everyday gratitude might be every leader’s ultimate advantage. If you’re ready to reframe your setbacks and become a learn-it-all, this one’s for you! 

In this episode, you’ll learn: 

• How Matt Drinkhahn’s zipline accident transformed his identity and approach to leadership 
• Why radical ownership is the cornerstone of sustainable success—and how you can apply it to any setback 
• The mindset, habits, and rituals that kept Matt Drinkhahn moving forward after devastating loss (from daily gratitude to finding magic in the mundane) 
• Practical steps for navigating identity loss and layoff—including how to create a comeback story and leverage your hidden skills 
• How high performers and business owners can avoid the trap of control, ego, and burnout 
• Why investing in your development (through coaching, learning, and reflection) is the best ROI—plus, how to turn feedback into growth 

Timestamps: 

00:00 – Matt Drinkhahn on owning your journey and coaching leaders 

01:19 – Surviving a life-changing accident: gratitude, resilience, and comeback 

02:17 – Zipline fall, injury, and the physical/mental toll 

06:08 – The first thought after disaster: radical ownership 

08:30 – Rebuilding after loss, pain, and identity crisis 

11:38 – Navigating layoffs, shame, and starting over 

14:27 – Why leaders get stuck and how to reset 

17:52 – Success journals, transferable skills, and network tips 

20:21 – How to pitch your value after setbacks 

22:25 – The power of outreach and reframing fear 

25:00 – Why nobody is thinking about you (and why that frees you to lead boldly) 

27:54 – Empowering leaders: from control to coaching and empowerment 

34:16 – Breaking down ego in family businesses 

41:46 – How to design development plans that actually work 

45:31 – Life lessons in practice: Miracle Morning, skill-sharpening, and daily habits 

47:16 – The story of Matt Drinkhahn’s dad, resilience, and winning each day 

About Matt Drinkhahn: 

Matt Drinkhahn is an author, entrepreneur, business coach, and host of the Eternal Optimist podcast. With over $130 million in career sales and two decades helping high performers transform ambition into lasting leadership, he’s known for his radical approach to ownership, resilience, and gratitude. His personal journey—from shattering his back in a zipline accident to running marathons and coaching top executives—now fuels his mission to help others unlock their own comebacks and lead with authenticity.  

Resources & Mentions: 

• Eternal Optimist Podcast 
• Matt Drinkhahn on LinkedIn 
• The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod 
• Front Row Dads 
• ProAdvisor Coach 
• Sandler Sales Training 
• Dan Sullivan, Strategic Coach 
• Damon’s episode on the Eternal Optimist podcast 

Podcast Contact Information: 

Website: www.learnit.com 

Email: [email protected] 

Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

The best cultures aren’t built on fearlessness—they’re built on everyday bravery, honest conversations, and the courage to take one small step at a time. On this episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, Damon welcomes Chief Bravery Officer Nicole Bianchi, bestselling author and keynote speaker, for an unflinching look at why bravery isn’t a superpower you’re born with—but a daily practice anyone can build. Nicole Bianchi shares what science tells us about the brain’s hardwired response to risk, the role of “small brave moves” in rewiring our mindset, and how leaders at every level can use bravery as their competitive advantage. From the five tough talks every leader needs to master, to the power of “not now” and practical tips for courageous conversations about AI, this episode is a toolkit for anyone ready to grow, lead, or even reinvent themselves. 

Whether you’re a seasoned executive or a new manager, you’ll find real-life stories, actionable frameworks, and liberating reminders that bravery is built—not born. 

In this episode, you’ll learn: 

• Why bravery is an acquired behavior—and how to start practicing it through small, intentional moves 
• The neuroscience behind fear and the tools to rewire your brain for growth instead of avoidance 
• The nine mindsets and habits that drive everyday courage in leadership, with a focus on hope, intention, and embracing uncertainty 
• Nicole Bianchi's framework for the five “tough talks” every leader must have (with conversation starters for each) 
• How to set boundaries, get comfortable saying “not now,” and avoid burnout in a leadership role 
• The real way to drive organizational culture change, foster brave conversations about AI, and model bravery from the C-suite on down 

Timestamps:  

00:00 – Why our brains default to fear—and how brave moves build growth 

01:40 – Nicole Bianchi’s first small brave move and entrepreneurial leap 

03:02 – The questions that shrank Nicole Bianchi fear (and can shrink yours) 

04:39 – The value of permission to experiment & self-compassion for failure 

05:45 – Nicole Bianchi’s passion: making bravery accessible for leaders 

06:54 – Where fear comes from, and how to rewire for courageous action 

08:50 – Flipping bravery: it’s not just for superheroes 

10:01 – Why sharing your brave moves publicly ramps up success 

11:14 – The top three mindsets for leading with courage 

14:10 – Intentionality: choosing who (and what) you invest in 

15:53 – The practical side of setting boundaries and saying “not now” 

18:51 – How bravery gets easier the more you practice it 

21:23 – Examples of everyday brave moves 

23:39 – The five tough conversations every leader must master 

27:06 – Conversation starters for tough “moving on” talks 

31:10 – Feedback at the C-suite: why leaders stop getting it (and the risk if they do) 

33:03 – The “continue and consider” framework for peer feedback 

34:27 – Brave leadership at the organizational level: starting with ‘how we work’ 

35:54 – Why self-mastery comes before leading others 

39:28 – When to walk away from a client (and why it’s brave) 

41:02 – Learning without doing is treason: behavior beats theory 

43:39 – Gallup’s research: One meaningful conversation a week outperforms any other leadership activity 

44:57 – Preparation and accountability: the basics of tough talks 

46:36 – Small brave moves and courageous conversations about AI 

49:34 – Bravery as your leadership advantage—a final takeaway 

About Nicole Bianchi 

Nicole Bianchi is a bestselling author, keynote speaker, and the original “Chief Bravery Officer.” With a track record advising Fortune 500 leaders, she’s on a mission to make bravery accessible and actionable for everyone—not just superheroes or first responders. A former Chief Human Resources Officer, Nicole Bianchi walked away from a high-reward executive career to build her own practice helping teams and organizations fuel performance through conversation, alignment, and courageous leadership. She’s known for blending science, story, and practical tools to help organizations and individuals create real change—even in the face of chaos or risk. 

Resources & Mentions: 

• Nicole Bianchi's website: nicolembianchi.com 
• LinkedIn: Nicole Bianchi on LinkedIn 
• Nicole Bianchi on YouTube: Nicole Bianchi YouTube Channel 
• Daniel Pink (endorsed Nicole’s books): Daniel Pink 
• Gallup poll on meaningful conversations (Feb 2024): Gallup Workplace Research 
• Nicole Bianchi’s books: https://www.nicolembianchi.com/books 

Podcast Contact Information: 

Website: www.learnit.com 

Email: [email protected] 

Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates.

Stories stick—and shape how we lead, connect, and drive results. In this energizing episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, Damon sits down with Eva Daniel, world-class speech coach and founder of The Speak Shop, to unpack why storytelling is the ultimate superpower for modern leaders. Eva reveals the hidden science behind story-driven communication, shares practical frameworks for leveling up your speeches, and explains how to make even “boring” boardroom content memorable and motivating. The conversation covers everything from practicing with intention (and the magic of reps), to unlocking your own story bank, and even why potato chips are a secret weapon for the stage. If you want to become a more influential, confident, and engaging leader—this episode is your guide. 

In this episode, you’ll learn: 

• Why stories are the most powerful (and underused) tool in your leadership toolkit 
• The difference between good speakers and phenomenal speakers—and how to cross the chasm 
• The basic principles of great storytelling, from starting in the action to using sensory and emotion cues 
• Strategies for making data and numbers compelling (yes, even in finance meetings!) 
• How to get better at public speaking—through clarity, smart feedback, and intentional practice 
• The “Homework for Life” method to capture everyday stories and build your keynote library 
• Why every leader should have a ready-to-go keynote 
• How potato chips can calm nerves and boost vocal quality (seriously) 
• The role of authentic, actionable feedback in continuous growth 

Timestamps: 

00:00 – The science of stories: why they stick 

01:36 – What sets phenomenal speakers apart 

02:34 – Why every leader needs a ready keynote 

03:12 – Storytelling: research, emotion, memory 

04:08 – Storycraft: scenes, feelings, sensory details 

05:50 – Turning numbers/data into stories 

07:35 – Cutting content to the essentials 

09:40 – Managing nerves & how to practice 

10:08 – Practicing “real” vs mirror reps 

13:30 – Damon’s 4C framework and conversational practice 

14:06 – How great speakers really get great: massive reps 

15:13 – Is charisma born—or made? 

17:18 – Actionable speaking tips: eye contact, filler word management 

19:10 – Writing’s role in speaking & leadership 

21:15 – Capturing and organizing your story bank (“Homework for Life”) 

24:26 – The importance of knowing your audience 

26:10 – Tailoring keynote structure for different crowds 

28:29 – Nailing the first 90 seconds 

30:01 – Who Eva coaches and what she does for clients 

33:03 – “Hot takes” to clarify thought leadership 

34:51 – Potato chips: the surprising vocal performance hack 

35:19 – The value of hard, actionable feedback 

37:31 – Should you book keynotes before or after writing a book? 

39:28 – Best first steps for emerging leaders 

42:59 – Leverage everyday meetings as practice grounds 

About Eva Daniel: 

Eva Daniel is an acclaimed speech coach and founder of The Speak Shop. With a passion for helping leaders tell stories that ignite action, Eva has worked with some of today’s top voices—including Dave Ramsey—and regularly coaches CEOs, entrepreneurs, and professional speakers to develop magnetic, memorable content. Known for her actionable frameworks, expertise in narrative, and practical approach to skill building, Eva is also a prolific creator on LinkedIn, where she shares tips for leaders seeking to become better communicators. 

Resources & Mentions: 

• The Speak Shop – Eva’s website 
• Eva Daniel on LinkedIn 
• Storyworthy by Matthew Dicks 
• Stories That Stick by Kindra Hall 
• Feelings Wheel (search) 
• PodMatch – platform for podcast guesting 
• Damon’s book: The Learn-It-All Leader 
• Damon’s children’s book: The Learn-It-All Leader for Kids 
• Homework For Life method 

Podcast Contact Information: 

Website: www.learnit.com 

Email: [email protected] 

Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Thriving businesses and strong teams have one thing in common: they rally around a powerful story. In this animated and insightful episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, Damon welcomes Dr. J.J. Peterson—founder of Conscious Brand Agency and former Head of StoryBrand—for a masterclass in the science and strategy of storytelling for leaders. Dr. J.J. breaks down why story is the most effective way to move people to action, the leadership mistakes that kill motivation, and how to flip the script so your employees become the heroes of your organization’s journey. He also unpacks the principles of narrative transportation, memorable messaging, and the “guide, not hero” mindset that sets truly influential leaders apart. 

Whether you're pitching a big vision or simply asking your team to complete a form, Dr. J.J. shares actionable frameworks (and plenty of movie references!) to help you spark buy-in, build trust, and lead with empathy and authority. 

In this episode, you’ll learn: 

• The science of “narrative transportation”—and how it unlocks influence and action 
• Why most leaders fail at communicating goals (and how to make your team the hero) 
• The pitfalls of overwhelming your team with complexity, ambiguity, or the wrong story 
• How to use empathy and authority to guide your team—without losing credibility 
• The power of the “rule of threes” for simple, unforgettable communication 
• StoryBrand’s seven-part framework for messaging (and how to use it as a leader) 
• The difference between being a “hero” and being the “guide”—and why it matters for driving results 

Timestamps: 

00:00 – Dr. J.J. Peterson’s introduction: Story as a tool for action 

03:26 – Why story moves people (and the goal of communication) 

04:12 – Narrative transportation: the science of seeing yourself in the story 

07:07 – Leadership mistakes: making yourself (or the company) the hero 

11:30 – Applying story to real-world projects (AI, buy-in, and motivation) 

13:57 – Game of Thrones & narrative fidelity (“the Starbucks cup” principle) 

15:46 – Clarity beats quantity: what people really remember from your message 

18:21 – Why starting with the PROBLEM hooks attention (with examples) 

20:46 – The four story characters: hero, victim, villain, guide 

24:01 – Authority, empathy, and the psychology of trusted guides 

29:03 – Vulnerability in leadership—when does it help and when does it hurt? 

30:41 – Creating clear plans (“the Mission Impossible method” & rule of threes) 

36:44 – Is it always about solving a problem? Success and future state 

40:30 – Advice for new leaders: Authentic authority and staying in your team’s story 

45:07 – Dr. J.J.'s current work and who he loves to partner with 

47:00 – Success story: How Tempur Sealy changed their whole sales approach 

50:50 – Final advice: Always start with the audience’s problem 

About Dr. J.J. Peterson 

Dr. J.J. Peterson is a renowned expert in narrative theory, leadership communication, and brand marketing. With an undergrad in communications, a master’s in theology and the arts, and a PhD in marketing/communication focused on storytelling, Dr. J.J. has spent his career helping leaders and organizations turn complex ideas into clear, actionable, and memorable stories. He served as the Head of StoryBrand, working with thousands of businesses, and now leads the Conscious Brand Agency, where he helps ambitious, heart-driven leaders craft their signature frameworks and messages. Dr. J.J. is also the host of the Badass Softy podcast. 

Resources & References: 

• Website: drjjpeterson.com 
• LinkedIn: Dr. J.J. Peterson on LinkedIn 
• Badass Softy Podcast – Dr. J.J. Peterson’s leadership podcast 
• StoryBrand – StoryBrand methodology and tools 

Podcast Contact Information: 

Website: www.learnit.com 

Email: [email protected] 

Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

This episode is part of Mastering the Business of Storytelling, a Learn-It-All™ Mini-Series exploring how great leaders move people to action through story.

Why do most leaders struggle to inspire action? The answer isn’t a better slide deck—it’s better storytelling. In this dynamic episode of The Learn-It-All™ podcast, Damon sits down with Park Howell—Emmy-winning storyteller, brand expert, and creator of the ABT storytelling framework. Drawing on nearly 40 years leading organizational transformations, Park Howell breaks down why stories (not stats) move hearts, minds, and teams. Discover how leaders can build credibility, unlock trust, and spark change by putting their audience at the center of every narrative. Plus, learn how AI and the new StoryCycleGenie tool revolutionize branding and leadership communication—even if you’re not a “natural” storyteller. 

Packed with real-world examples, role-playing, and hands-on exercises, this episode delivers the tools, frameworks, and inspiration every leader needs to connect and drive action—especially in today’s crowded, high-stakes environment. 

In this episode, you’ll learn: 

• Why storytelling is the most powerful tool in leadership and sales 
• The critical mistakes leaders make—and how to fix them with the ABT (And, But, Therefore) framework 
• How to craft a story that puts your audience at its center 
• Why sharing your authentic mistakes builds more credibility than sharing successes 
• How introverts and technical minds can master storytelling with simple “algorithms” 
• The science behind emotional selling and the “because” effect on behavior change 
• How AI can amplify (not replace) human storytelling—and why StoryCycleGenie is a game-changer for brands 

Timestamps: 

00:00 – Why storytelling outperforms features and functions in leadership 

01:54 – The essence of a story: conflict, resolution, and Kurt Vonnegut’s “man in a hole” 

02:43 – The “and, and, and” trap—and how South Park’s replacement rule changes everything 

05:12 – How the brain responds to stories vs. information overload 

07:52 – How leaders build trust and credibility with story (even if you’re “not in sales”) 

09:53 – Telling personal stories: it’s not just about you—it’s about relatable outcomes 

11:26 – Using humility and mistakes to create impactful learning moments 

13:50 – How introverts and engineers can break through limiting beliefs and leverage the ABT 

17:46 – The Harvard “because” study and why it transforms persuasion 

20:29 – Selling as “find the hurt, amplify the pain, heal the wound” 

22:43 – Leading AI change: Applying ABT to overcome fear and resistance 

24:27 – The power of empathy and elevating the audience 

25:48 – Practical ABT role play: helping middle managers overcome overwhelm 

34:24 – Why your call to action matters (and how to make it stick) 

36:30 – Nursery rhymes, Lincoln, and the ABT “chassis” of timeless storytelling 

39:22 – Cutting through content overload: narrative as a leadership hack 

40:10 – How AI (and StoryCycleGenie) transforms branding and saves time 

44:51 – Uncovering blind spots and real user feedback on StoryCycleGenie 

53:47 – Park’s Emmy-winning Goodwill story—and what makes a campaign work 

58:47 – Free tools: ABT worksheet, brand story assessment, and more 

60:15 – Where to find Park’s podcast and additional resources 

About Park Howell 

Park Howell is an Emmy-award-winning storyteller, author, and host of the Business of Story podcast. Over the last 35 years, he’s guided leaders and organizations—including tech, healthcare, and nonprofit teams—through mastering the science (and art) of branding narrative. Park developed the ABT storytelling framework and the StoryCycleGenie AI tool, which drastically reduces time and effort spent crafting compelling brand stories. He’s helped over 2 million people upskill their communications and continues to mentor clients worldwide. 

Resources & Mentions: 

• Park’s website  
• Park on LinkedIn 
• Business of Story Podcast 
• StoryCycleGenie AI (includes free brand story assessment) 
• The Narrative Gym for Business (book) 
• Fanatical Prospecting by Jeb Blount 
• The Kurt Vonnegut “Shape of Stories” video 

Podcast Contact Information: 

Website: www.learnit.com 

Email: [email protected] 

Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

This episode is part of Mastering the Business of Storytelling, a Learn-It-All™ Mini-Series exploring how great leaders move people to action through story.

Level up your storytelling—and your leadership—in this must-listen episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast. Host Damon Lembi welcomes Matthew Dicks, acclaimed storyteller, author, teacher, and nine-time Moth Grand Slam champion, to unpack the “why” and “how” behind memorable stories that win hearts, minds, and deals. From actionable strategies for business leaders to the surprising lessons bad storytellers offer, this episode busts myths about what makes a story “work.” Plus: the secrets to a killer opening, why vulnerability trumps data, and Matthew’s acclaimed “Homework for Life” tool to help you capture story-worthy moments in everyday life. If you want to boost your impact as a business leader, sales pro, or communicator, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom and real-world examples. 

In this episode, you’ll learn: 

• The 3 essential elements every great story needs (and why they matter in business) 
• Strategic ways to open a talk and instantly hook your audience 
• How sharing failures and vulnerability make you memorable—and trustworthy 
• The biggest mistakes boring storytellers make (and how to learn from them) 
• Why personal connection outsells products, and how to “story sell” in every meeting 
• How “Homework for Life” helps capture meaning from everyday moments 
• Smart tips for creating suspense, surprise, and credibility in any setting 
• Why leaders need to stop relying on bios—and start with stories 

Timestamps:

00:00 – The power of leveling up your storytelling skills quickly  

02:06 – Matthew’s aha moment on why leaders need stories  

03:24 – 3 main building blocks of memorable stories  

06:38 – The value of competition, Moth victories, and peer recognition  

09:00 – Learning from bad storytellers: watching, flipping, and avoiding mistakes  

11:35 – Why your opening matters more than your ending  

13:36 – How to instantly “trigger” story mode in your audience’s brain  

17:26 – Why most storytellers start too soon (and how to find the right beginning)  

19:24 – Getting technical people and scientists out of the “how” trap  

22:04 – Why people buy humans, not products: Trevor Devine’s windows story  

26:53 – How to demonstrate empathy and listen deeper than content matching  

27:23 – Matthew’s 100% close rate as a wedding DJ (and the storytelling secret)  

33:25 – Vulnerability in sales: sharing your mistakes builds trust  

35:32 – Domino’s Pizza turnaround—a masterclass in crisis storytelling  

40:17 – The “pickle story”: specificity and context in storytelling  

44:30 – Creating surprise and suspense in everyday presentations  

46:59 – Tips for using information exclusion to hook audiences (the suspense formula)  

50:31 – Storyworthy’s “Homework for Life”: capturing stories from your everyday  

56:23 – The single biggest lesson Matthew learned from decades as a teacher 

About Matthew Dicks  

Matthew Dicks is an award-winning storyteller, novelist, elementary school teacher, and renowned coach to leaders across Fortune 500 companies. He’s the bestselling author of Storyworthy and Story Sell and has won the Moth Grand Slam nine times, making him a legend in the world of competitive storytelling. Matthew teaches storytelling workshops and gives keynotes for clients including Google, Microsoft, and Slack, helping people turn ordinary moments into extraordinary connections and results. Learn more at MatthewDicks.com and connect on LinkedIn. 

Resources Referenced: 

• Matthew Dicks on LinkedIn 
• Storyworthy (Matthew’s book on personal storytelling) 
• Story Sell (Matthew’s book on business storytelling) 
• Homework for Life App 
• TEDx Talk: Homework for Life 
• MatthewDicks.com 
• “Jolt Effect” by Matt Dixon (book link) 

Podcast Contact Information: 

Website: www.learnit.com 

Email: [email protected] 

Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Get ready for a powerful, laughter-filled deep dive into workplace happiness and mental health. In this episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, host Damon Lembi sits down with keynote speaker, sales expert, and Work Happy founder Greg Kettner, who shares how his experiences as a comedian (including a transformative encounter with Robin Williams) shaped his mission to make mental health an everyday leadership conversation. They unpack why burnout and loneliness quietly hurt even at the top, how humor unlocks trust and retention, and why leaders must prioritize empathy without losing their edge. Greg shows that creating a workplace where people really want to show up isn’t just about perks or pay—it’s about connection, authenticity, and small acts of kindness. 

You’ll walk away with actionable tools to spark more joy at work, lead with vulnerability, and help your team not just chase happiness, but create it. Whether you’re a CEO, manager, or individual contributor, this episode offers hard-hitting advice and inspiring stories for anyone ready to build more engaging, human-first organizations. 

In this episode, you’ll learn: 

• Why empathy and vulnerability are leadership superpowers in today’s culture 
• How humor—with or without a joke-telling skill—creates trust and retention 
• The difference between chasing happiness vs. making space for “happier” 
• Concrete ways leaders can destigmatize mental health and foster psychological safety 
• Surprising ROI of prioritizing employee wellbeing (including retention and performance!) 
• The quickest way to turn around a bad day—and why serving others works 
• The untold dangers of loneliness for CEOs and founders—and how to build your support system 
• How to use time-blocking and positive rituals for daily mental health boosts 
• Why small moments of kindness change teams—and change lives 

Timestamps: 

00:00 – The CEO’s role in creating a fun, engaging culture 

00:23 – Meet Gregg Kettner: comedian turned workplace happiness expert 

01:32 – Robin Williams’ advice—make people laugh, it's magical 

02:09 – Greg’s transformative story with Robin Williams 

07:52 – What would work look like if we were happier? 

10:20 – When the grass isn’t greener: reflecting before leaving a job 

12:28 – Why the goal is “happier,” not happiness—and how to get there 

13:53 – “Put your mask on first”: Why leaders need their own support 

16:50 – Serving others: the fastest way to boost your own mood 

18:05 – How to create psychological safety for mental health at work 

22:07 – Empathy, boundaries, and HR: how leaders walk the line 

25:42 – Greg’s top happiness-building tools (and why to stop chasing “happy”) 

27:52 – Meditation for leaders: starting small, practicing daily 

29:52 – Time-blocking—and how to engineer “happy breaks” at work 

31:18 – Stress is rising: how leaders can help teams cope 

32:57 – Workshops, keynotes, and fun training for happier culture 

35:58 – Ask your staff—what perks actually help make work joyful? 

40:55 – Greg’s most rewarding mental health impact story 

44:14 – Comedy and compassion: making a difference in tough moments 

45:41 – Kindness, connection, and what leaders must do now 

47:17 – 40,000+ strong: The Humor Lab community 

About Greg Kettner 

Greg Kettner is an acclaimed keynote speaker, workplace happiness advocate, podcast host, and the founder of Work Happy, an organization dedicated to helping leaders build mentally healthy and engaging workplaces. Leveraging his career as a professional comedian (opening for the likes of Robin Williams and Norm Macdonald), Greg now blends humor, stories, and research-backed tools to tackle loneliness, burnout, and disengagement—especially among leaders and their teams. His mission: making mental health a non-negotiable part of every workplace conversation.  

Resources & Mentions: 

• Greg Kettner’s website (Work Happy) 
• Greg on LinkedIn 
• The Humor Lab Facebook Group 
• SmartLess Podcast 
• Headspace meditation app 

Podcast Contact Information: 

Website: www.learnit.com 

Email: [email protected] 

Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Whether in the military or business, the strongest teams are built on continuous learning, open communication, and a shared sense of purpose. In this action-packed episode, Damon sits down with Clarence Dingman, President of Defense Markets at PingWind, to uncover the leadership principles that drive high-performing organizations. Drawing from his Special Forces career and experience leading a dual-culture company through rapid growth and a major merger, Clarence provides a playbook for leaders at every level—whether you’re stepping up to a big new role or uniting teams after an acquisition. His stories highlight the power of active listening, building trust, and leaning into discomfort as a growth opportunity. If you want tactical strategies on culture, onboarding, and empowering your teams—even in tough times—this episode delivers. From military lessons to boardroom breakthroughs, get ready to learn what the best leaders keep doing—even after they reach the top. 

In this episode, you’ll learn: 

• The importance of anchoring company culture around lifelong learning (and how Clarence uses Michelangelo’s “And yet, I am still learning” to drive growth) 
• How to transition from being a doer to a resource-driven leader—and why empowerment beats micromanagement 
• Clarence’s firsthand playbook for merging two companies and uniting different cultures after a major acquisition 
• Why empathy and active listening are crucial for problem-solving and retention at scale 
• What to do when top performers clash with company values—and the hidden costs of tolerating toxic talent 
• Actionable tips on onboarding, employee engagement, and making feedback a two-way street—even as your team grows into the hundreds 

Timestamps: 

00:00 – Why environment matters more than the perfect job offer 

01:36 – The business case for “always learning” as a cultural value 

05:12 – Clarence’s military journey: from infantry to Special Forces 

08:36 – Accelerated learning: transferring military lessons to business 

11:00 – How empathy and active listening create win-win outcomes 

12:18 – Taking the leap: stepping into a challenging new leadership role 

14:56 – Advice for stepping outside your comfort zone 

16:49 – Navigating a merger: uniting two established cultures 

17:46 – Clarence’s approach to building trust and communication post-acquisition 

19:41 – Biggest pain points in scaling: change management and uncertainty 

21:09 – Learning to let go: moving from doer to resource agent 

24:03 – How to become a hero-maker (not just a hero) as a leader 

25:05 – Penguin’s employee-centric culture and retention strategies 

27:29 – Building core values with bottom-up input (not just top-down) 

30:54 – What to do when you need culture buy-in—or a culture do-over 

34:13 – How to handle high-performing but toxic team members 

37:51 – Penguin’s people-first onboarding process 

41:58 – Breaking down leadership barriers to get authentic feedback 

43:54 – Clarence’s leadership philosophy and final advice for listeners 

About Clarence Dingman 

Clarence Dingman is President of Defense Markets for PingWind, a leading DC-based provider of IT and mission support services to federal and defense agencies. Clarence’s career began as an Army infantry officer before he moved into Special Forces, serving 11 years and bringing direct expertise in leadership, unconventional missions, and culture-building under pressure. After partnering with PingWind’s founder and fellow veteran, Aaron Moak, Clarence now leads organizational growth, cultural integration post-merger, and large-scale talent development. He is passionate about creating learning organizations founded on empathy, openness, and mission-focused results. 

Resources & Mentions: 

• PingWindWebsite: https://www.pingwind.com/about 
• Clarence on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarence-dingman-48028730/ 
• Book: How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie 
• Michelangelo’s quote “And yet, I am still learning” (featured as a core value) 
• PingWind’s LinkedIn page 

Podcast Contact Information: 

Website: www.learnit.com 

Email: [email protected] 

Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Tap into hidden wisdom and unlock breakthrough learning—no matter your title. In this dynamic episode, Damon Lembi sits down with Jeff Wetzler, co-founder of Transcend, former Chief Learning Officer at Teach for America, and author of Ask: Tap Into The Hidden Wisdom of People Around You For Unexpected Breakthroughs in Leadership and Life. Jeff unpacks why even the smartest leaders miss crucial insights, how defensiveness blocks learning, and why the answers to your toughest problems are closer than you think. With stories from his own career, actionable tools, and research-backed advice, Jeff shares his Five Step ASK Approach—an adaptable playbook for building trust, surfacing blind spots, sparking genuine dialogue, and designing action plans that actually work. 

From elite leadership traps to the art of high-quality questions, this episode is overflowing with practical wisdom for anyone who wants to lead, listen, and learn at the next level. 

In this episode, you’ll learn: 

• Why top leaders often fail at learning—and how to avoid the “know-it-all” trap 
• The biggest barriers that keep people from honestly sharing what leaders need to hear 
• Jeff’s real-world examples (including his own missteps) and how the ASK Approach could have changed outcomes 
• The Five Steps of the ASK Approach, including: choosing curiosity, making it safe, posing quality questions, listening to learn, and reflecting/reconnecting 
• What quality questions sound like—and how they unlock hidden ideas and energy in your team 
• Actionable prompts and strategies to cultivate trust, safety, and psychological resilience—so people tell you the real story 
• How closing the feedback loop cements learning and strengthens your culture 

Timestamps: 

00:00 – Why high achievers can struggle more with deep learning 

03:15 – The Know-It-All vs. Learn-It-All leader mindset 

04:52 – Jeff’s personal story: missing key signals as a leader 

07:32 – Core barriers that prevent honest feedback (fear, time pressure, lack of psychological safety) 

10:12 – Recent missteps & lessons as a leader 

14:03 – How to signal that you value people’s input 

16:28 – The power of the “What’s your reaction?” question 

19:31 – Why great insights rarely come unprompted—leaders must ask 

20:16 – The ASK Approach: Five steps for breakthrough conversations 

22:31 – Step 1: Choose curiosity—why it’s the gatekeeper to learning 

24:31 – Practical ways to reclaim your curiosity as an adult 

28:27 – Using AI to challenge your own assumptions 

29:29 – Step 2: Make it safe—how leaders build psychological safety 

33:12 – Steps investors and CEOs can take to cultivate candor 

34:36 – Radiating resilience: Showing you can “handle the truth” 

36:38 – Step 3: Pose quality questions (with examples to use) 

39:18 – The trap of “Does that make sense?”—better alternatives 

41:38 – Asking for headlines, digging deeper, and hearing real stories 

42:45 – Step 4: Listen to learn (not just to respond) 

45:12 – Pulling the thread: How therapists and leaders get to the real issue 

45:57 – Paraphrase and test: The magic strategy for clarity and trust 

47:01 – Step 5: Reflect and reconnect—why closing the loop matters 

49:04 – The impact of follow-up and closing feedback surprises 

50:07 – Where to connect with Jeff and get free resources 

50:31 – Damon’s challenge: Go into every conversation ready to learn 

About Jeff Wetzler 

Jeff Wetzler is a seasoned organizational learning expert, co-founder of Transcend, and author of Ask. With over 25 years of experience, including as Chief Learning Officer at Teach For America, Jeff has helped leaders and teams unlock blind spots, build trust, and discover hidden insights that drive performance and breakthrough change. His work blends academic research, real-world consulting, and lived leadership lessons. Learn more on Jeff’s website and connect with him on LinkedIn. 

Resources & Mentions: 

• Jeff’s website: askapproach.com 
• Jeff’s book: Ask: Tap Into The Hidden Wisdom of People Around You 
• Jeff on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jeffwetzler 
• Craig Dowden (mentioned): LinkedIn 
• Tools referenced: Ladder of Understanding, AI tools: ChatGPT, Claude, question storming methods by Hal Gregersen & Marilee Adams 

Podcast Contact Information: 

Website: www.learnit.com 

Email: [email protected] 

Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

In this dynamic episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, Damon Lembi sits down with Juliana Sommer, founder and CEO of Priority Architectural Graphics, to talk about how bootstrapping, self-awareness, and vulnerability fuel long-term leadership success. Juliana shares her journey from making small electrical labels to building one of California’s leading architectural signage companies—all without changing jobs for three decades, right in the heart of San Francisco’s ever-evolving business culture. The conversation explores assertive leadership, overcoming imposter syndrome, using behavioral assessments for team effectiveness, lessons learned from recessions, and adapting to the rise of AI in traditional industries. Whether you’re a founder, a new manager, or craving more meaning in your career, this episode is filled with wisdom, actionable frameworks, and candid stories about what it really takes to lead well through thick and thin. 

In this episode, you’ll learn: 

• What “assertive leadership” really means—and why most people drift toward aggression or passivity 
• How vulnerability can be a superpower for leaders (and the difference it made in Juliana’s early years) 
• The power and pitfalls of “shape-shifting” in leadership—and how to avoid burning out your team 
• How behavioral assessments like DISC, Predictive Index, and Myers-Briggs boosted team self-awareness and performance 
• Practical strategies for surviving downturns—from COVID and the dot-com crash to the Great Recession 
• Why gratitude and self-reflection are essential antidotes to the “comparison trap” and imposter syndrome 
• How being AI-ready can make a traditional business future-proof (and what that looks like in signage and construction) 

Timestamps: 

00:00 – Three tracks of leadership: aggressive, passive, assertive 

02:15 – 30 years bootstrapped: starting in 1995 and staying in one company 

04:46 – Juliana’s family roots in construction and how Priority Architectural Graphics was born 

08:25 – First experiences with Learnit and how upskilling changed Juliana’s trajectory 

09:41 – Landing the first big state contract and overcoming imposter syndrome 

12:42 – Leaning on family for support, vulnerability, and grounding 

15:11 – Assertiveness as the “magic middle” of leadership (and how boundaries matter) 

17:34 – Why passive leadership fails and how assertiveness sets direction 

19:43 – Juliana’s evolution as a leader: moving from passive to assertive, and learning through experience 

21:31 – Fast-tracking self-awareness: behavioral assessments for team and leadership 

25:26 – The exhausting trap of “shape-shifting,” strengths, and the DISC framework 

29:02 – Surviving downturns: lessons from COVID, dot-com, and the Great Recession 

31:16 – Merging companies and finding opportunity in crisis 

34:11 – Leading through stress: balancing internal panic and outward stability 

37:04 – The critical role of trusted mentors and vulnerability in hard times 

37:56 – Staying motivated: love for the work, team, and entrepreneurship after three decades 

39:30 – Advice for finding work you love—patience, team dynamics, and impact 

42:22 – “Don’t just point out the hole”: A framework for bringing problems and solutions to your boss 

45:13 – How ambitious employees stand out: ownership, suggestions, and filling the gap 

46:01 – The “what if” of Bay Area careers and lessons from staying the course 

48:26 – Overcoming the comparison trap: gratitude as the anchor 

50:15 – Preparing for AI: staying open, adapting, and bridging the digital divide 

51:55 – What AI will change in project delivery, transparency, and client service 

54:37 – Legacy: advancing women in AEC and evolving industry culture for the next generation 

About Juliana Sommer 

Juliana Sommer is the founder and CEO of Priority Architectural Graphics, a top architectural signage firm based in San Francisco. Raised in a family of entrepreneurs, Juliana bootstrapped her company—from engraving labels in a tiny room to leading large-scale projects at local landmarks like SFO Airport and multifamily housing developments. For 30 years, she’s steered her business through turbulent markets, tech disruptions, and industry transformation, all while advocating for greater inclusion of women in architecture, engineering, and construction.  

Resources & Mentions: 

• Priority Architectural Graphics: prioritygraphics.com 
• Juliana Sommer’s LinkedIn: Juliana Choi Sommer 
• DISC Assessment 
• Predictive Index 
• Myers-Briggs Type Indicator 
• Learnit 
• Pat Lencioni’s Working Genius (recommended leadership tool) 

Podcast Contact Information: 

Website: www.learnit.com 

Email: [email protected] 

Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates.