PureReinvention Podcast: Recent Episodes
MB Strategies
Engage. Disrupt. Adapt. Repeat. The PureReinvention Podcast guides individuals on their journey through the reinvention process. Sustainable reinvention requires everyone's active participation to flourish. This is a space for curious individuals to explore the trials, successes and failures surrounding reinvention from thought leaders in the corporate and non-profit community.
The cool thing about doing a sabbatical is that it isn't just for the person to get getting time off, but it's for everyone around them who has to fill in. When you look taking a sabbatical and we decided to put one forward where people of a certain point in the organization get one month off - paid at some point in time, they become available.
Sabbaticals become available every five years. They’re based on seniority. So when I institute this, we took our most senior people and we limited them to two. We said two people can go every year.
What you find out, is other people get to step up. People who are in sort of subordinate positions have to step up into the leadership position to take on some of those tasks for a month. You begin thinking a little bit differently about what you do as an organization. Most importantly, you give leadership lessons and on the job training to people who are your future leaders in the organization.
I can tell you after doing this for six years we have seen some people graduate into those roles because they show themselves to be more than ready to take on some responsibilities that we hadn't been asking them to do. I've not heard one complaint so far. You hear people talking years out what they're going to do, and I think it's become something that helps us provide a little bit more people to get them to be happier in their work.
As organizations, we don't have unlimited resources. We have to try to find those ways in which you could fill that pot with as much good stuff as you can often make up for a salary request. We’re trying to fill that place to really walk the walk, not just talk the talk about what makes us a good organization to work for. This is something we feel really firm about.
Transcript:
My journey is not a fairytale journey, I think by any means. And I think that's where my kind of explains to you somewhere I guess I saw some things, and I wanted to do some things differently.
But most of that started with me. Because at that point in time in my life I started saying so what's in it for me what's in it for Chrissy. So what's the next step, right? So I got my degree. I'm ready to go like I want to be a director. I want to be a VP - let's let's do it!
But that didn't come. And so I remember sitting there and I asked for promotions. I wrote really great letters that said why I should have been promoted. All of which got turned down by the CEO who just left - who is like my dad to me- an amazing man who really helped to build the character and me to help me transition into the CEO role.
But he turned me down many, many times and I remember walking out of his office going back. I felt like I know nothing and I don't know what he's talking about. I certainly deserve to be promoted. This is the next step.
I remember one day I came home and I was talking to my husband. I said "I just don't get it. I love the credit union. I absolutely am in love with the industry and what the Credit Union Industry stands for. I love the people I work with, but it's just not fitting, I am I missing something.
That's when I kind of (figuratively) got smacked in the face by my husband (he's very good to me) and he said, and it was it was you - it's you, Chrissy. You're the problem. You're always looking for that self serving purpose. You're looking for the what's in it for Chrissy and what's next for Chrissy. You're not thinking about how do you go into that place every day and serve to exist or exist to serve others? And i remember going, oh my gosh, like that's the point that I'm missing, I'm in a service industry, but I'm meant to be a servant to the people that I'm working with and working for and the people that I was leading at that time.
We are taking our own advice and we are going to take a hiatus from producing weekly podcasts at PureReinvention. We have a big event coming up (Connect: Detroit on May 22 - there's still time to register) and all of us here feel that we need to take a step back and assess how we can best build and present future content in more digestible and diverse ways. In order to make that happen, we need to take the advice we give so freely and take a timeout to assess how we can best create and convey future content to you.
We meet and get inspired by many people in our PureReinvention journey and we will continue to share their stories with you. Audio podcasts will certainly play a role, but we want to add to the mix through other means of communication by adding video and blogs. We want to keep things fresh and present the content to you in a way that entertains as well as useful to you.
In the meantime, tell us what you think. What do you like about our podcasts? What would you like to see changed? This is an invitation to connect with us. We certainly would love to hear from you! Stay tuned to this channel for future updates and remember, if you're ready to make a change, make it a change that lasts, make it PureReinvention!
Want to see reinvention in action? Look no further than the former Michigan Lodging and Tourism Association (now Check In Michigan). They have a new and innovative executive director and a board that is dedicated to serving the next generation in the Michigan hospitality industry. They hired the firm, Advance 360 to help guide them through the initial stage of this transition. Learn how reinvention ready organizations commence sustainable reinvention.
QUOTE IT
“It’s not a linear process by any means.” (9:07) “Yes, the landscape is changing, but our role and how we champion this industry hasn’t changed.” (12:59) “(Aspiration) not a dream state. It’s a destination that we have our eye and finger on.” (14:55) DIG IN
- (7:29) The feeling. The brand took flight.
- (10:22) Serious movement.
- (13:36) Engaging the marketplace.
- (14:59) Synchronizing collaboration.
- (18:16) Sifting through the raw data.
Tip of the Week
A brand is more than a logo. A brand expresses the organizational culture.
The interviews we conducted this month profiled success stories in reinvention readiness. Both Erin Patten and Dene Westbrook were ready to take the reinvention plunge. What did they have in common? We believe that they both had the four pillars of reinvention readiness: desire, curiosity, flexibility and confidence.
Everything begins with a desire to change your situation. Both Erin and Dene surrounded themselves with people who inspired them and pushed them to take the next step.
Both Dene and Erin also had Curiosity. A reinvention journey thrives on curiosity. They asked lots of questions and went outside their respective comfort zones.
They also showed flexibility. Successful reinvention only happens when you stretch your flexibility. You have to listen to the people you've surrounded yourself with and keep all options open.
Finally, both showed confidence. Once they did their homework, got a support group and they moved forward with the plan.
Want some help in your reinvention journey? Download this infographic (from the mobile app or go to our website) which can serve as a bookmark or an image you can keep by your desk.
QUOTE IT “(0:44) "Are you willing to take on a new role?" “(5:11) "The power of taking pause." DIG IN * (0:31) Flexibility. * (2:59) Curiosity. * (4:40) Confidence. * (7:41) Desire.
Tip of the Week
Confidence is the fourth pillar of reinvention readiness. Rely on your support group and plan to give you the added boost you need to move things forward.
Erin Patten is very accomplished with a Harvard business degree and a Kresge Fellow highlighting her impressive resume. She walked away from the standard career path to chase her dream of being an entrepreneur. In January 2018 she launched DaO Detroit. DaO stands for "defy all odds" and Erin personifies that sentiment.
QUOTE IT
“[My big leap] A natural progression of my career journey, my life journey. It just had to happen.” (3:21)
“Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.” –Lao Tzu (6:33) DIG IN * (2:56) Disrupting one’s economic livelihood and thriving beyond fear. * (4:59) Simplify your messaging. * (10:04, 11:47) Connecting to the marketplace.
Tip of the Week
Flexibility is the third pillar of reinvention readiness. Keep all options open.
Dene is a graduate of our STARTERS program last May. We saw from the beginning that she was reinvention ready and was in a great position to fly with her new promotion and added responsibilities with the Michigan Municipal League. Dene is a perfect example of what it takes to be reinvention ready. Listen as Mike talks to Dene about how she has built a network of support from her STARTERS experience and has excelled in her new position.
QUOTE IT
“I certainly have enough room to make my stamp on this place and strive for everything I want it to be.” (10:30) DIG IN * (3:02) Knowing when you’re reinvention ready. * (4:50) A pivot in your style. * (9:01) Building on ah ha moments. * (11:43) From a doer to a communicator.
Tip of the Week
Curiosity is the second pillar of reinvention readiness. Are you asking questions and not judging answers?
Are you ready for a change? In order to make it a change that lasts you need to be reinvention ready! We’ll spend this month laying out the four pillars of reinvention readiness. You can use these pillars and ask yourself if you have what it takes to make the necessary changes to yourself and/or your organization.
QUOTE IT
“Are you ready for change?” (0:53) DIG IN Characteristics of reinvention readiness:
- (2:03) Flexible.
- (3:27) Curious; lean in.
- (8:50) Confidence.
- (9:44) Desire.
Tip of the Week
Desire is the first pillar of reinvention readiness. You have to really want to change if you’re going to be successful.
We end our focus on the fundamentals of move and the value of storytelling with a great discussion between Mike Bills and Jodi Schafer. We learned from our month's guests the value of storytelling to move ideas forward. We also learn the value of connecting with others emotionally using shared experiences and values.
QUOTE IT
“At the core, it’s about connecting with people on a very real level.” (1:49) DIG IN
- (1:17, 1:30) Back to basics.
- (2:34) Multidimensional storytelling.
- (9:03) Be unique and fluid.
Tip of the Week
Approach customers and stakeholders with "what do you need?" rather than "this is what I do."
Cornetta suffered a tragedy not so long ago by losing her father and found out about the details on the evening news. She needed to process her grief and took the opportunity to share her father's story through the Secret Society of Twisted Storytellers. Cornetta found that process to be so cathartic that she has dedicated her career to helping others to tell their stories. Listen as Mike talks to Cornetta about how storytelling helps to heal and the value of telling your own story.
QUOTE IT
“(Storytelling) It was impactful to me.” (12:58)
"It didn’t exist so I created it.” (18:18) DIG IN
- (11:08) Transferring the value of storytelling.
- (11:40) Storytelling to connect neighborhoods.
- (12:56) The why.
Tip of the Week
Look for what you share in common when communicating. You get much further when you make that connection.
Eric Thomas is a story teller. He's been one all his life. Now, he uses his unique skills to help his clients tell their stories. Listen this week as Mike gets Eric's unique perspective on how to move your cause forward through emotional connections.
QUOTE IT
“Storytelling saved my life.” (3:43)
"Remember that we are people." (11:17) DIG IN
- (3:32) The power of storytelling.
- (5:44) The formula.
- (15:47) Shifting the company culture.
Tip of the Week
Effective leaders tap into emotions to move ideas forward.
Mike talks with this month's co-host, PureReinvention's very own Jodi Schafer, owner, HRM Services, Inc. Mike and Jodi discuss how Jodi is moving her company forward as well as discuss the March line up of interviews that we have in store for you.
QUOTE IT
“Knowing what you want to do and then having the courage to do it is really where the fruit starts to comes to life.” (1:08) DIG IN
- (1:14) Key elements of move.
- (3:14) Have a measure of courage.
- (5:53) Expecting growth to take place.
Tip of the Week
Knowing what you want is only part of the equation. It's the courage to move that idea forward that makes the success.
Movement makes the whole PureReinvention process work. It's the purpose of the whole exercise. What makes movement work? Listen to Mike discuss the ingredients of movement with February's co-host, Shari Milliken, finance director of the Michigan Municipal League.
QUOTE IT
“Look outside the paradigm and go for it." (4:35) DIG IN * (1:04) It's uncomfortable. * (1:28) Engagement. * (6:37) Willingness to fail.
Tip of the Week
Passion maximizes new opportunities and minimizes risk of failure.
We've all heard of think tanks, but how many think and DO tanks have you heard of? Detroit Future City is committed to advancing the quality of life for all Detroiters. The organization accomplishes this by partnerships with residents and stakeholders using data driven strategies that promotes community and economic development. This week we talk with DFC's executive director, Anika Goss-Foster about how the organization works to move Detroit ahead for the next 50 years.
QUOTE IT
“Create partners to make action differently.” (15:29) “It needs to be in everyone’s best interest.” (19:13) DIG IN
- (9:38) Think and do.
- (11:51) Activating the involvement.
- (14:07) The premise of reporting to solve a problem.
Tip of the Week
Movement without accountability is not possible. You need to assign people responsible and deadines to facilitate real movement.
The Detroit City Football Club was founded in 2012 and is one of the most successful minor league soccer teams in North America. The team was founded as a vehicle to organize the community and regularly sells out its 7,000 seat stadium in Hamtramck. Listen as Mike talks with Sean Mann, CEO and co-owner of Detroit City Football Club about the club's founding and how they earned a loyal fan base.
QUOTE IT “A gathering place in the city at a time when there's only a handful of restaurants and bars." (6:39) “Being the host of the party instead of the life of the party." (11:03) DIG IN * (4:03) Soccer as the vehicle for being active in the community. * (5:19) A growth spurt. * (7:16) A small neighborhood activity generates a large amount of enthusiasm. * (18:58) Creating a stronger financial footing.
Tip of the Week
Ask yourself: Is your customer experience being driven top down or bottom up?
We continue discussing the move fundamental in PureReinvention with our February co-host, Shari Milliken, finance director with Michigan Municipal League. Mike and Shari discuss executive development and the importance of listening.
QUOTE IT
“You have to continue to better yourself." (1:42) “Bringing the leading edge to your people." (4:28) DIG IN * (1:23) Importance of continuous movement in executive development. * (1:55) Executive awareness. * (4:02) Pursue change. * (4:39) Nurturing individualism.
Tip of the Week
The best listeners are also keen observers.
We are so excited to announce the launch of a professional development opportunity like no other. Connect: Detroit will be a one day experience in Detroit on May 22. This experience is designed for high functioning executives who are interested in rolling up their sleeves, feeling a little uncomfortable and experiencing the reinvention that is happening in Detroit. With Connect: Detroit, you'll have an opportunity to immerse yourself in the many success stories that Detroit has to offer and learn how you can take those experiences home with you and apply them to your personal success story. This week's podcast is a discussion between Mike Bills and Bonnifer Ballard (Executive Director - American Water Works Association - Michigan Section) on how Connect: Detroit came to be and what excites them about sharing this experience with others.
QUOTE IT “Be all in.” (2:14) “The best things happen when we’re a little uncomfortable.” (5:43) “Reflection is a part of professional development.” (7:13) DIG IN * (2:14) The role of empathy. * (3:45) The value of unpredictability. * (8:02) Creating accountability.
Tip of the Week
If you do the same things, you get the same results. If you're not happy with those results, try something different.
This is the second part of the Impression 5 reinvention case study with Noah Smith, Partner, Capital Services, Inc. (Listen to part 1 here.) Part 2 covers how the I-5 team used the PureReinvention fundamentals simplify, connect and move to attain the incredible growth they have enjoyed in recent years.
QUOTE IT “We got away from distractions.” (5:10) “The catalyst to bringing everyone else on board.” (10:37) DIG IN * (3:41) Create a focus to simplify. * (7:32) Connecting networks in the community. * (14:40) Doing what’s impactful and necessary.
Tip of the Week
You can't move a plan forward without a focused, simple message.
The Impression 5 Science Center in Lansing, Michigan has seen a tremendous turnaround over the last few years under the leadership of Noah Smith. Listen as Mike and Noah discuss how I5’s board applied the PureReinvention fundamentals to position the organization into the growth phase that it has enjoyed in recent years.
QUOTE IT “People were actually ready for a change … but there was nobody who was willing to spark it.” (7:00) “I want to do this. Train me.” (16:18) DIG IN * (5:33) Disruption is an option. * (11:38) Demonstration of ownership. * (14:45) The brain trust parallels with mutual mentorship.
Tip of the Week
Moving from “wouldn’t it be nice” to “let’s do it” is the key to any success story.
While we were interviewing Marlin Williams, we discovered that she was responsible for key elements of the Compuware move to downtown Detroit from Farmington Hills in 2003. The story was fascinating to us and we decided to dedicate an episode to this part of Marlin's story.
QUOTE IT “How do you cast a wider net?” (6:17) “I wasn’t afraid to ask.” (15:56)
DIG IN * (5:35) Making the move from suburbia. * (8:03) Shifting the corporate culture. * (13:24) A personal journey of continuous improvement.
Tip of the Week
Own your fear.
Happy New Year! We are starting 2018 off with a peek into what's next for PureReinvention. Are you reinvention ready? We have some great offerings (including this podcast) for those who are committed to the reinvention journey.
QUOTE IT “What’s next? … I’m looking for something that’s really going to stimulate me in a new way.” (4:35) “It’s important for high functioning executives to get their hands dirty. Roll up your sleeves and actually solve the problem that you’re talking about.” (5:48) DIG IN
- (1:58) Stepping into the move fundamental.
- (2:56) Connect: Detroit, a nontraditional executive leadership experience.
- (4:48) The value add with an experiential learning experience.
- (8:51) Are you ready to move with Connect: Detroit?
Tip of the Week
Now is the time to determine what is next for you.
Dr. Gerry Roston brings an impressive resume to TechTown Detroit. He was on the Mars rover team and helped develop technologies which are making self-driving cars possible. He now brings his wealth of knowledge and connections to help TechTown Detroit excel in connecting ideas to the marketplace. Listen this week as we explore the value of connecting ideas to those we serve.
QUOTE IT “Go to the marketplace first, try to find what pain your potential customers are having to make sure what you want to develop meets their needs." (7:06) “Getting people connected to the right resources is critically important." (11:42) “Tell me about a day in your life. Where do you struggle?" (13:15) DIG IN * (5:35, 12:29) Customer discovery. * (13:06) Learning to pivot. * (18:23) Provide actionable information.
Tip of the Week
Connecting to your customers to find their pain points is critical to your success.
Lauren Kase is a San Francisco native that stayed in Detroit after receiving her degree from the University of Michigan. She is the Head of Marketing and Partnerships at Floyd Detroit. Listen this week as we discover what attracts the millennials to Detroit, Floyd's unique positioning in the furniture industry and the importance of mutual mentorship.
QUOTE IT
“The most sustainable thing is not throwing anything away.” (9:50) “It’s really exciting to have people resonate with the product.” (10:56)
DIG IN * (8:40) Floyd Detroit’s definition of sustainability. * (9:55) The challenge of being too successful. * (12:03) Tap into tacit knowledge.
Tip of the Week
Mentorship is a two-way street.
We kick off the month of December with this month's co-host Lauren Snyder, Marketing and Communications Specialist, American Hort and recent STARTERS graduate. This episode discusses the exciting line up we have in December as well as engaging discussion on how the connect fundamental works in the PureReinvention process.
QUOTE IT “The idea of connection transcends so many aspects of success." (2:26) “They (TechTown) connect the right conversations, with the right people at the right time." (5:16) DIG IN * (2:14) The importance of connect. * (2:41) The epitome of the young person's ability to connect. * (5:00) Connecting to influence technology and innovation.
Tip of the Week
Build a network of mentors to connect your ideas and passion to the right people.
The holiday season is a time for reflection. Now is the time to think about how we are going to approach the next year. Make some space to think about how you want to continue to move yourself forward. How are you going to approach 2018? We are encouraging you to install some kind of sabbatical in your plans. It doesn't have to be months or weeks. It simply needs to be some kind of installed time to assess where you are and to think about what's next. Install time and think and experience something new.
QUOTE IT “Make space.” (2:01) “We need to be refreshed.” (6:02) DIG IN * (1:24) The importance of a sabbatical. * (3:00) Introduce the sabbatical concept into your life. * (4:22) Connect with inspiration.
Tip of the Week
Take some time this holiday season to plan out 2018. Install some opportunities for a personal sabbatical in which you experience something different.
Marlin Williams has found her calling in helping to diversify industries. Marlin's path to where she is now is amazing. She started as a mortician, implemented diversity programs for a couple Fortune 500 industries and now lends her talents to TechTown Detroit. She is also the founder of Sisters Code, which is dedicated to exposing women from the ages of 25-85 to the world of coding and technology. Her story is inspiring and we're glad she took the time to share it with us!
QUOTE IT
“Come talk to us.” (4:33) “It’s all about empowerment.” (11:26) “Be prepared to reinvent yourself.” (15:54)
DIG IN * (3:20) The open door policy. * (10:05) Getting others engaged. * (12:32, 14:04) Understanding your core. * (14:33) Hone in on the why with a life sabbatical.
Tip of the Week
Feeling lost and confused? Taking a personal sabbatical may be what you need to assess what you need to do moving forward.
We had so many gems from our talk with Melissa Butler, that we had to make two episodes! The first episode can be heard here. In this episode, Melissa discusses how she started The Lip Bar and her advice to would be entrepreneurs out there.
QUOTE IT “If you don’t like your situation, change it.” (6:21) “Don’t rush it … Launch with something that is electric.” (11:58) “Reinvention leaders have to tie whatever they're doing to the bigger story.” (18:49) DIG IN * (3:54) From Detroit to Wall Street and back. * (9:21) Knowing when to quit. * (11:43, 16:30) The infliction of arbitrary deadlines. * (13:35) Shift in American dream.
Tip of the Week
Don't rush a project to market to meet self-imposed deadlines.
PureReinvention team member Jodi Schafer joins us in November to discuss your podcast line up and our thoughts going forward for STARTERS and the WE.INVENT program. We'll also give you a hint of our new professional development offering that we'll offer in the Spring of 2018. We have learned so much in 2017 and will continue to build offerings that serve your needs.
QUOTE IT
“Why you do what you do?” (4:22) “The story comes to life in the connect phase.” (5:15)
DIG IN
- (1:19) An upsize to the trade imbalance.
- (3:35) Redefining an industry standard.
- (6:08) Connect with curious minds.
- (6:08) STARTERS discussion.
- (7:36) Awesome women only -- WE.INVENT.
- (10:21) Executives and high performers.
Tip of the Week
Always keep in mind why you're doing what you're doing when formulating the plan.
Let's face it: even the the most shy of us require some degrees of human interaction. They're necessary on both a personal and professional level. In this week's episode, team members Sonya Robinson and Mike Bills discuss with our October co-host, Erin Patten of Ponyride, how we can build sustainable and enriching connections.
QUOTE IT
“If you don’t connect authentically, then it’s not going to be a sustainable relationship.” (4:13)
“We are walking magnets just waiting for the opportunity to connect.” (6:46)
DIG IN
(0:43) Organize the chaos.
(2:28) Creating sustainable connections.
(9:33) The power of differences.
Tip of the Week
Are you being authentic in your communications? Sustainable connections require authenticity.
This week we interview Noah Elliott Morrison, director of Ponyride. Ponyride is a nonprofit organization which runs out of a 30,000 square foot building in Detroit. It is committed to facilitating the growth of social missions within artists, entrepreneurs, makers, and serves as an incubator and a safe space to help its clientele grow into viable businesses.
QUOTE IT “What things do you need to move your business to the next place?” (11:21)
“It’s a magic that is really hard to point to.” (12:27) DIG IN
- (7:38) A work through space.
- (10:43) Discovering growth resources.
- (11:46) The role of listening and observing.
Observing one's behavior is just as important as listening when determining how best to serve a community.
Steve Widder built the Susan G. Komen Mid-Michigan Race for the Cure in Lansing into a major event with over 6000 runners in his heyday. Steve shares his thoughts with us on how to understand an audience. He also shares with us his passion for biking and his recent travels to France to take on challenging legs of the Tour de France.
QUOTE IT
“Understand your audience.” (5:22)
“Make a grand spectacle at the beginning.” (9:27)
“I’ve been wanting to do this. This is my best chance. I’ve never gotten this far before and I’ve gotta go.” (20:29)
“Three times I didn’t make it. The fourth one I’m gonna do it.” (20:44)
DIG IN
(4:50) Growth stride and creating a community.
(11:29) Leader philosophy of being all in.
(20:58) Overcome self-doubt.
Successful products or programs address immediate pain points people face. Connect with your target audience and know what motivates and hinders them.
Building a culture is one of the primary responsibilities of all leaders. A major ingredient for successful cultures is authenticity and this week's guest excels in this trait. Listen this week as we interview Dr. Tonya Matthews, president and CEO of Detroit Science Center and discuss what it takes to build a successful business culture and how nurturing authenticity plays a vital role.
QUOTE IT
“Wanting to save the world.” (3:07)
“We look at things that look nothing like us.” (4:55)
“A culture eats budget for breakfast.” (11:19)
“Understanding our part of the larger whole.” (17:08)
DIG IN
(4:55) Connect to gain the competitive advantage.
(9:09) Embrace and nurture authenticity.
(15:51) Paying forward reinvention.
Tip of the Week
There's only one you - Be authentic and find your passion. It's your distinct competitive advantage.
October starts our focus on the connect fundamental of the PureReinvention process. We can't think of a better person who personifies connect like this month's co-host, Erin Patten, Director of Retail and Marketing, Pony Ride. Listen as Mike and Erin discuss this month's interviews and how Erin uses the connect fundamental in advancing the mission of her organization.
QUOTE IT
“Part of the connection is intentionality.” (7:25)
DIG IN
(3:04) The energy behind connect.
(5:49) The importance of patience.
(7:12) Sustainable energy.
Tip of the Week
Building a vibrant network takes patience. Don't be discouraged if you're not getting immediate results for your efforts
The end of September brings to an end our focus on the simplify fundamental of the PureReinvention process. We thought we would leave you with a short episode with our co-host Anita Quillen, CEO of Quillen Holdings, talking about tips she uses to simplify her management and personal life and how she balances both of them.
QUOTE IT [box]
“Control your fear so it doesn’t consume you.” (8:18) [/box] DIG IN * (0:28) Next generation thought for employers. * (8:56) The culture of growth. * (10:04) Use time for yourself to enhance.
Tip of the Week
Rarely can you perfectly balance work and personal obligations on any given day. One or the other demands more attention. Give yourself permission to focus on one that needs your immediate attention and then make up the other so that they even out over time.
Melissa Butler is a dynamic person. We met her when touring Pony Ride with our spring STARTERS program. She is the founder and CEO of The Lip Bar. She was on Shark Tank and although they didn't get funded, they got tremendous exposure and Melissa had the ability to take advantage of the added interest in her product. Her marketing shatters all traditional molds for beauty products and she knows her target audience so well that she's named her and knows what she does on any given day. We got so much from Melissa that we broke the interview into two parts. The second part will be released later this fall. Both podcasts are inspiring!
QUOTE IT “You’re not just selling products, you’re selling yourself. You’re selling a story.” (4:52) “People don’t buy what you sell, they buy what you believe.” (10:45) DIG IN * (4:52) Basics of brand loyalty. * (6:40) Craft a compelling story (The Why). * (14:20) How to tell the story. * (15:41) Build a profile of your customer.
Tip of the Week
Simplify your marketing by developing a persona of your target market. Think about that person when creating your promotional materials.
Mark Denson, director of business attraction at the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation, gives a unique perspective on Detroit's current resurgence and its roots in the planning that led to Detroit hosting the Super Bowl in 2006. Listen as Mark shares his observations of the Detroit story from his unique perspective.
QUOTE IT
“Our problems were great and in that we needed great and creative solutions to move the city forward.” (4:53)
“Completing projects, making a difference in a visible way and creating partnerships to make these things happen.” (7:45)
DIG IN
(4:24) Dig out the hope factor. Sell the vision and make believers.
(7:29) Manage expectations by delivering.
(8:26) Invest in deep thought and think into the future.
(12:31) Shake the trees.
(16:31) Creating a sustainable growth cycle.
Tip of the Week
A "can do" attitude and patience can make all the difference.
We kick off September with Anita-Marie Quillen, CEO Quillen Holdings. In this episode, Mike talks with Anita about how she uses the simplify process in PureReinvention to effectively communicate with employees.
QUOTE IT “A thoughtful reduction to solutions.” (3:13) “[The responsibility of a boss or leader] Continue growth from all the individuals underneath you.” (12:15) DIG IN
- (2:52) Shifting culture and measuring performance.
- (5:17) Responding to behaviors.
- (7:02) Transparency in communication.
Tip of the Week
Clearly communicate expectations and follow up regularly with staff.
Mike Bills of Team PureReinvention and Bonnifer Ballard, this month's co-host and Executive Director of the Michigan Section of the American Waterworks Association discuss the main take aways from our August episodes.
QUOTE IT
“You can not begin to embrace what's happening today if you stay in your own little world and your talk to the same people about the same things." (6:35)
DIG IN
(2:49) Openness to disruption.
(4:04) Selective use of trends.
(5:03) Learning how to think differently.
(8:30) The environment to practice simplifying.
Tip of the Week
Gain a different perspective by talking with people who think differently from you.
If you want to see someone who lives the "what's next?" mantra, look no further than Dan Gilmartin of the Michigan Municipal League. The Michigan Municipal League has received national attention for its placemaking approach to community building and isn't resting on its laurels. Listen as Dan explains how he's given license by his board and stakeholders to think big and how he's building the team to execute on this expanded vision.
QUOTE IT “You’ve gotta leave time for people to reflect a little bit.” (7:21)
“Innovate . . . Standardize . . . Optimize. (7:55) DIG IN * (5:12) Pioneering thought on your 2.0. * (7:21) Identify your singular role. * (13:25) Expand your rolodex.
Tip of the Week
Make sure you're executing on your current mission well before expanding your part of the pie.
Summer Minnick has achieved high levels of success through drive and planning. Unfortunately, even the best-laid plans can't prepare you for everything. Summer shares her experiences on how several unexpected turns of events affected her and how she turned these situations into positive outcomes.
QUOTE IT
“Everybody likes an element of control (5:56)"
“You know you can finish. You've done this a bazillion times. Just go do it. When you have to walk, just walk and get through it." (14:47)
“I had let go of all my expectations and preconceived outcomes and just decided I would just run." (15:42)
DIG IN
(3:11) The importance of the unexpected.
(3:28) Doubling up bundles of joy; adjusting to disruption.
(6:24) Running the distance to break the 4-hour barrier.
(11:52) Alternative goals.
(15:15) Crossing the finish line at 3:53:11.
Tip of the Week
Adjust and relax if your plan isn't working out.
We have a couple of exciting interviews lined up in August and a new co-host! Join Mike and Bonnifer Ballard, Executive Director, Michigan Section of the American Water Works Association, as they discuss how simplifying the message is important in securing support for a cause.
QUOTE IT
“Being able to tell a story in a very simple and clear way is very important.” (1:38)
“Embracing change: Learning to be flexible and deal with chaos.” (10:01)
DIG IN
Lessons Learned from the Michigan Municipal League:
(2:38) How they tackle really big ideas in a simple way.
(3:01) Their one word: place making.
(5:15) Bringing the board along.
Tip of the Week
What’s your word? What is your very simple phrase to help people understand why you’re in business?
The PureReinvention team wraps up July discussing lessons learned from our guests this month. Simplification is very important in messaging and in serving customer needs. Organizations that focus on the customer experience and successfully communicate that are better positioned to thrive in this new economy. Listen as PureReinvention team members Mike Bills and Will Carlson discuss these lessons and reflect on how taking time to simplify complex issues is vital to advancing your mission.
QUOTE IT
“The simplification concept, for most people, becomes the pivot point.” (3:29)
DIG IN
(0:44) Getting ready to simplify.
(3:29) Lessons learned from simplification.
Tip of the Week
Successful solutions are almost always the simple ones.
Grand Rapids has had a vibe for some time and has become a prime Midwest destination in spite of not having a major sports team. This week’s guest is chief experience officer of Experience Grand Rapids, Doug Small and is the promoter in chief of this gem of a city. Doug shares his thoughts on how team building and thinking differently has built Grand Rapids to the destination it is today. Doug also shares a personal story that was a life changing event that provides a valuable lesson to all of us.
QUOTE IT
“A Collaborative pioneering smart.” (4:01)
"Attitude, character and enthusiasm.” (8:05)
"We’re willing to do differently.” (18:30)
DIG IN
(4:21) Handsome growth.
(5:35) Stay true to brand pillars.
(13:51) The responsibility of a leader to listen.
Tip of the Week
Listen to your body. Don't ignore subtle persistent pain. It could be a signal of a bigger problem.
Simplification of the message is vital to enlisting support and/or selling the product. Most successful endeavors end up being a simple solution to a complex problem. Complicated messages get lost and confuse customers and stakeholders. PR firms make a good living condensing messages to brands and slogans. However, in order to get to the simple slogan or elevator pitch, you have to thoroughly understand the issues and the problem at hand. Join team members Mike Bills and Will Carlson as they discuss simplifying the message and learn what's in store for our July podcasts.
Quote it
“What the hell does this mean?” (1:49)
“Be thoughtful about the bullet points.” (2:54)
Dig in
(2:32) Condense your hour long speech to ten minutes.
(3:33) Moving our passion and knowledge to a takeaway message for the listener.
(6:57) The power of illustrating to solve problems.
Don't be overwhelmed by the daunting task. Take a big problem and break it down to small parts.
QUOTE IT
“[Detroit bankruptcy story] 170,000 creditors … 18.5 billion in debt … a pension system that was $3.5 billion underfunded … a service delivery insolvent city.” (0:46)
"[Company rebranding] So many things about it branding wise that were difficult.” (3:29)
"Our plan now drives how I spend everyday.” (5:48)
DIG IN
(1:10) Mining the daunting task and knowing where to start. Identify and reduce one single thing to a picture that others can understand.
(3:47) Less is more. Simplify your message.
(6:22) Streamline expectations with targeted focus.
Tip of the Week
Simplification is vital in your mission and your internal and external communications.
A successful life or career is rarely made from one dramatic event. It usually is a result of a work ethic developed over a series of small experiences and successes along the line. Listen to this week's episode as team members Mike Bills and Sonya Robinson discuss how you can develop a sense of ownership in your journey through taking small manageable steps to advance yourself both professionally and personally.
QUOTE IT
“You have to own the work you want to do so you can get the work you’re destined to do.” (3:59)
"Create basic success first.” (7:10)
DIG IN
(4:15) Identify personal values.
(5:19) Start with small things to create a pattern of success.
Tip of the Week
Ownership starts with the small things. If you act responsibly you will get more responsibility.
The relationship between a board of directors and a CEO is often undefined and can change based on the management style of the leadership. This week we explore a successful case of board leadership working in tandem with their new CEO as we talk with Cindy Bowen, Chairperson of the Michigan Lodging and Tourism Association board of directors and Deanna Richeson, President and CEO of that organization.
QUOTE IT
“The association has to change and evolve ahead of its members to provide value." (6:11)
"Be a listener. Engage your industry stakeholders. Have vision. Look for opportunities. Put that into an executable plan.” (9:07)
DIG IN
(3:50) Being the differentiator.
(5:18) The importance of continued quantum growth.
(6:18) Seeing ahead of your members.
(9:35) Unique value and characteristics of a sustainable board.
Tip of the Week
Do the board of directors and the chief executive have defined roles? Constant friction between the board and the chief executive may be an indicator of undefined roles.
Deanna Richeson has accomplished a lot in her first year at the Michigan Lodging and Tourism Association. The association's annual conference set a record for attendance and she initiated a workforce development job fair that attracted over 400 attendees. That's quite a bit for a first year at the helm, but it sounds like she's just getting started. Listen to team member Sonya Robinson as she gets Deanna's thoughts on how she intends to work with her board of directors to move the association forward.
QUOTE IT
“The role of the board is to help create the vision from the industry’s perspective about where the organization will grow.” (4:36)
"It’s critical that the board shows up.” (5:50)
"Quantum growth: Big growth in a short time.” (9:16)
DIG IN
(5:42) Diversity of contribution.
(8:18) Quantum growth vs incremental growth.
(9:44) The importance of executive listening.
Tip of the Week
Sustainable growth can only be attained when you respond to the needs of your customers. Take the time to listen to your members/customers.
PureReinvention team members Mike Bills and Sonya Robinson kick off June discussing how curiosity is a critical element of ownership.
Quote it
“Personal curiosity … drives the ownership component” (5:47)
“Use my curiosity to take things to the next level.” (8:40)
“What’s the little thing I can change that will make a difference.” (9:03)
Dig in
(6:24) The hunger for curiosity
(8:24) Pulling forward to understand
Tip of the Week:
Curiosity is the essence of ownership. Keep asking the "why"?
PureReinvention launched the inaugural STARTERS event this month and we took a few moments to talk to some of the participants. STARTERS is professional development done the PureReinvention way. We immerse participants in the Detroit story, help put these stories into perspective, and help you to craft your personal and/or professional reinvention plan! Listen as we discuss first impressions of this big move forward in the PureReinvention program.
QUOTE IT
“Their [STARTERS presenters] passion and commitment is admirable.” (2:07)
"[The PureReinvention philosophy] The five steps are going to help me with all the projects, communities and individuals I work with.” (3:37)
DIG IN
(4:14) How STARTERS is set apart from other learning experiences.
(4:38) Two degrees of separation from someone to help individuals move forward. The collaborative approach.
Tip of the Week
Use the Detroit story to jumpstart changes in your personal and professional life. Need help? Enroll in STARTERS to get a head start in your reinvention story.
Mike and co-host Dru Mitchell of the Clinton County Economic Alliance wrap up May’s topic of ownership at the personal level. Dru and Mike discuss Steven Covey’s principle of “start with the end in mind” and discuss how you can take this principle to advance you personal life and/or career.
QUOTE IT
“Owning what you want to accomplish drives the direction you go in.” (2:35)
“Professional and personal curiosity is huge.” (3:52)
“It is the diversity of individuals that you surround yourself with that will help guide you. You just need to listen.” (8:42)
DIG IN
(1:08) Confidence with knowing the end game.
(3:16) Leadership behaviors that encourage one’s ability to hit new marks.
(5:26) Questions to ask yourself if you’re not moving forward.
(8:15) You can’t be hesitant to try something different.
Tip of the Week
Identify where you want to be before moving forward.
Entrepreneurs take risks - That's a given, but as we learn from Danielle Smith, owner of Detroit Maid, you can manage that risk. Listen to the steps she took to take control of her future, overcome her fears and make the entrepreneurial plunge.
QUOTE IT
“Fear of failure can be paralyzing.” (9:16)
"A combination of articulating that vision and putting yourself in a space to be around people that will support it is really crucial.” (14:06)
DIG IN
(6:03) Owning the idea and taking the methodical approach.
(11:15) At the tipping point.
(13:05) Leverage a robust support network.
Tip of the Week
Manage your risk by building a support network of friends who are knowledgeable and aren't afraid to tell you what they think.
It's no secret that participants in team sports often end up with an advantage when assuming leadership roles. Many of the skill sets learned on the playing field can be applied to leadership roles in the office. Listen this week as we talk to Kris Smith, director of the Detroit Sports Commission. He will share his love and passion for sports and how he and his team are working to maintain Detroit's stature as a great destination for all kinds of sporting events.
Quote It
“First in.” (5:19)
“Being accountable for not just yourself but for your teammate.” (5:39)
“We, as a team, can not win unless you do your job.” (5:44)
Dig in
(5:55) The basic fundamentals.
(9:12) Getting energy from the crowd.
(7:12) Two way trust to inspire ownership.
(12:28) Making space for what’s next.
Tip of the week: A team is only as strong as its weakest link. Build and nurture the whole team.
Taking ownership (responsibility) of your life is key to your personal success. Taking ownership of your role in your organization is key to your professional success. The PureReinvention Project will spend the month of May exploring how you can take ownership of your future, regardless of your current position in life.
QUOTE IT
“That champion can be you.” (9:36)
"Select and move things forward.” (10:42)
DIG IN
(3:45) Knowing what to move forward first.
(6:10) Why own?
(7:46) Elements of owning.
Tip of the Week
Passion makes all the difference. If you're not passionate about what you're doing, take a step back and find out what stirs your passion.
Mike and Jodi wrap up April discussing ownership in the non-profit sector. Whether you're the CEO, serving on the board or have a staff position, it's important to the success of the organization that you own your role and take responsibility for the outcomes. Not only will this benefit the organization, it also will help you in advancing your professional journey as well!
QUOTE IT
“Putting your name on the line.” (2:22)
"Picking your head up. Charting your own course.” (6:59)
“Together we can.” (8:54)
DIG IN
(1:30) The paradox of owning.
(2:43) A key characteristic of emerging leaders.
(3:55) Rewrite the outcome.
(5:05) The excitement of ownership.
(7:20) Gaining buy in.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
You will doom a project if no one is responsible for its progress and outcome.
If non-profits are to be sustainable, they need to run it more like a business where programs support themselves and the organization is in close enough touch with the public and the stakeholders to maintain relevancy. Sometimes that mission has to change. The March of Dimes is a great example where the original mission of eradicating polio was accomplished, yet the organization still exists as their mission evolved to combatting birth defects. In this episode, Dr. Truman Hudson, Jr. talks to Mike Bills about how non-profits need to start thinking more like a business in order to ensure that they are sustainable in the long run.
QUOTE IT
“People give to people. People give to people they know, they care for and they trust” (4:58)
"Leaders are leading from the heart and not necessarily through the business lens.” (9:43)
“Sustainability puts you in a position to pivot if necessary.” (10:51)
DIG IN
(3:55) The premise of going out of business.
(6:15) Owning relevance.
(9:50) Fiduciary responsibility of leadership to ensure sustainability.
(12:37) Characteristics of sustainable leadership.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Non-profit programs still need to provide revenue or member value if the organization is to be sustainable in the long run.
Ownership in the non-profit sector happens on many levels. Erin Patten owns her part of Ponyride's mission and connects the organization to the community. Listen as Erin and Mike discuss how the staff and board of directors can work together to accomplish great things.
QUOTE IT
“The breaker anointing” (2:31)
"All boards should be working boards.” (10:56)
“If there isn’t a connection to the community, then how will they know if you’re gone or if you're there.” (12:28)
DIG IN
(6:08) Ownership in a collaborative space.
(7:59) Board involvement.
(11:59) Collaboration + Community Partners = Sustainability.
(17:29) Vetting to attain a value added board.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Taking responsibility is a key to success. Ask yourself: Do I own the outcome of my work? Do I accept responsibility for my actions or do I pass it off to someone else?
April starts a new quarter and a new focus for our podcasts. Quarter two is dedicated to the "own" step in the PureReinvention model. We've lined up some great interviews to demonstrate how you can effectively take ownership of the situation to address the disruptions we all face. In April we look at the non-profit sector and explore how staff, chief executives and board members can own their respective pieces of the puzzle to effectively advance the cause forward.
QUOTE IT
“We’re talking about the people who are behaving as owners” (3:29)
"Making money and being profitable in your programs should be an expectation.” (7:12)
“Thriving and looking forward to what’s next.” (8:40)
DIG IN
(1:25) What is ownership?
(3:59) Application.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Are you willling to be accountable in solving the problems your organization faces? Effective change happens only when people are brave enough to accept accountability for the results of the actions needed to be taken.
We all have set backs. It's what we do with those disruptions that define us in the long run. Listen to this inspiring podcast as PureReinvention team member Sonya Robinson talks with co-host Julie Owens about disruption on a personal level.
QUOTE IT
“Knowing when to hold on. Knowing when we need to walk away.” (1:29)
"When opportunity knocks … walk across the threshold to go and experience my next level of reinvention.” (2:23)
“Is this working for me?” (3:24)
DIG IN
(1:02) Being honest with ourselves.
(1:48) When opportunity knocks.
(2:56) Being honest even if it hurts.
(3:45) Acting on honest realizations.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Be an agent of your own change. Find your inner voice and listen to it.
Being outgoing and a skillful disruptor is a learned process for most of us. In this episode Monica Ware shares with Mike how she embraces this learning process.
QUOTE IT
“If you don’t make incremental adjustments as you go, then things explode and are uncomfortable.” (2:44)
"Which path do you want to take?” (9:53)
“Controlled disruption” (12:51)
DIG IN
(2:23) To be a learned disruptor.
(5:13) The value of reinventing yourself first.
(10:01) Coaching others to move.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
As you assess your professional life, consider questions such as: "Is this working for me? Am I happy, fulfilled? Am I being challenged?”
March's line up is dedicated to how we deal with disruptions in our personal lives. In this episode, Mike Bills discusses with Amy Frankmann how you can apply PureReinvention principles to disruptions in your personal life.
QUOTE IT
“Her personal life and her professional life met.” (2:30)
"What happens after five o’clock?” (3:03)
“After the disruption you have to own your own behavior.” (4:23)
“Use what we have done as the spring board of where we’re going.” (6:29)
DIG IN
(0:53) How to stay focused on the end goal.
(1:58) When personal conviction is lacking.
(4:00) Simplify and put framework around moving things forward.
(5:06) Take time to listen to yourself.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Build your self-confidence. Make a list of all the things you did today, in your personal life. Reflect upon what you have become and build on that.
Would you drop everything to chase your dream? Even against advice of friends and family? That's what Antea Shelton and her sister did to chase their dream of writing a song for Beyoncé. Listen this week as Mike talks to Antea Shelton, vocal coach and owner of Aplus Music Group.
QUOTE IT
“Disrupt what was normal.” (5:25)
"Test the market with what you do.” (8:30)
“My role as a teacher has taught me not to disrupt somebody and leave them alone, but to partner with them so that we go together.” (9:58)
“You catch flies better with honey than with vinegar.” (14:04)
DIG IN
(5:56) Function in fear or love.
(7:49) Internal self-confidence.
(9:58) Co-leadership and collaboration.
(11:25) Become a vibe master.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Learn to be a vibe master. Listen and feel what the other person is feeling to determine the next best move.
Why is Mike wearing the pink hat? Well you just have to listen to the episode to find out! We got so much from our talk with Julie Owens that we had to bring her back for a second interview. This time we talked about how to handle disruption in the office and use common sense to work out differences.
QUOTE IT
“Does a degree define who I am as a professional?” (3:02)
"Common sense is not so common, but we need to use it in resolving differences.” (5:28)
“Words are gifts and words are weapons.” (5:37)
“A scared man can’t win.” (15:17)
DIG IN
(2:29) Education comes in different packages.
(5:20) Disagreeing without being disagreeable.
(6:30) Tools for success.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Disagree without being disagreeable. Be conscience of what you're saying and how you're saying it.
You see a lot being a federal judge for over 27 years, but nothing could prepare him for the role he was to play in Detroit's bankruptcy. Join us for a fascinating interview where Judge Rosen shares some stories behind the grand bargain that saved Detroit.
QUOTE IT
“Get out of the river nile … and confront the realities.” (13:26)
"Resolve the underlying structural problems." (14:19)
“The real core is about creating more heros and less villains.” (20:40)
DIG IN
(4:54) Recognized a different approach was needed.
(7:50) The binary equation.
(11:54) Creativity when obligation exceeds the revenue stream.
(15:31) Be tenacious and persistent.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Leaders are tenacious and persistent. Ask probing questions from stakeholders and customers. Leave no stone unturned when searching for solutions.
February's line up focuses on how people handle disruption in their professional lives. Listen to Mike Bills and Sonya Robinson of Team PureReinvention as they discuss professional disruption.
QUOTE IT
“All next generation success as a leader … comes first from us.” (0:50)
“(Professional disruption) The ownership of your own professional destiny.” (3:54)
“Close the door behind them as they move forward.” (6:32)
DIG IN
(0:20) Professional disruption defined.
(4:04) Tools to navigate an aggressive and upward mobility journey.
(6:03) Recipe for sustainable change.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Always move forward. If you've decided to move on, going back is not an option.
Mike Bills and Monica Ware, president of Association Management Solutions, summarize what we’ve learned from this month’s episodes. We can all learn lessons from the disruption that has happened in Detroit in recent years.
QUOTE IT
“What happens when things go too long?” (4:29)
“The savvy businesses will look for the gaps and fill in.” (8:17)
“Through disruption the wise leader is able to navigate and forge next step opportunity.” (9:24)
DIG IN
(2:43) Disruption defined.
(5:03) Defense for major disruption.
(7:00) Balance with minor disruptions.
(8:28) The importance of the entrepreneurial thought process.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Major disruption is often a product of years of neglect. Asking the tough questions early and often can avert disaster.
There are tremendous changes going on in Detroit and self-described "misfit" Regina Gaines, co-owner of the House of Pure Vin, shares with us her observations of what's happening in downtown Detroit.
QUOTE IT
“You can move mountains if you can find a crack.” (8:16)
“Our resurgence is something to really discuss because its home grown.” (10:27)
“The innovative mindset is a misfit.” (14:41)
DIG IN
(7:32) Economic, psychographic and demographic change.
(8:10) Defining the crack.
(9:09) Formula for business success.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Be true to yourself and your passion. If something feels wrong where you are, take the time to find the place where you feel right.
This week's guest is Julie Owens, case manager for the Honorable Gerald Rosen. Through her position with Judge Rosen, Julie had a front seat in witnessing the bankruptcy proceedings. Join us as we hear Julie share some stories and her thoughts on this historic event.
QUOTE IT
“Failure was not an option.” (6:26)
“In finding a new solution . . . put in a new process.” (9:34)
“Don’t go for the obvious. Don’t be afraid to do something that’s not obvious.” (12:52)
DIG IN
(3:55) The role of a visionary leader to reach an unprecedented resolve.
(5:49) Lessons learned from the largest municipal bankruptcy.
(10:14) Grand bargaining defined.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
When major disruption happens, take the time to take a hard look at your assets. Connect to your customers and stakeholders to be sure you're listing the right assets and that they are properly valued.
We're tweaking the podcast format in 2017 to help organize our content to better align with the five fundamentals. The first quarter will be dedicated to the disrupt fundamental. January will be dedicated to how Detroit embodies disruption.
QUOTE IT
“[Key strategic leaders] Always stay a little unsettled in their responsibility in moving their organizations forward.” (3:32)
“How impressive it is when we have leaders who are putting unlike things together to create new opportunities.“ (5:20)
“Disruption isn’t what takes you to your knees” (7:56)
DIG IN
(3:42) Identify opportunities for reinvention.
(4:58) Leadership behaviors that drive a rainbow of opportunities.
(6:18) Disruption as an opportunity, not as a threat.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Detroit is the reinvention learning laboratory. Pay close attention to what is and isn't working to help you in your reinvention strategy.
Last podcast for the year! We wanted to end 2016 talking about one of the most important aspects of professional and personal development - connecting. The PureReinvention project was born by the founders connecting and collaborating on shared interests. The fundamentals and concepts were derived from countless meetings of disrupters who needed a safe space to collaborate, dream and scheme. With this in mind, we have developed CEO forums and other connection opportunities for executives and aspiring executives to connect and collaborate. Listen to Mike talk to Julie Novak, CEO of the Michigan State Medical Society as she discusses her experience with one of these forums and how she uses the podcasts to help with professional development.
Editors note: We are taking a couple weeks off to retool and prepare for 2017. See you again on January 9, 2017!
QUOTE IT
“The value that you have to have as an organization or as an individual with a skill set has to keep evolving.” (5:03)
“Go external and connect in new and different ways.” (5:43)
“[Podcasts] It’s like having a network or having a series of coaches available to you.” (7:43)
DIG IN
(0:49) The power of conversation for growing professionals.
(3:09) The role of an executive coach.
(5:37) Podcasts help individuals to connect.
(8:00) The value in connecting with groups of likeminded individuals.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Plan on making your own connections. Create a support group that you meet with regularly. If you don't have one - Call us!
2017 is fast approaching and we've asked disrupter Mindy Bradish-Orta of the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce and Experience Jackson how she prepares for the new year. There's some good tips you can utilize over the remaining weeks of 2016 to hit the ground running in January.
QUOTE IT
“[Leaders] Find safe places … to let go of pressure to be perfect” (6:25)
“Bring leadership maturity within yourself” (9:19)
DIG IN
(4:52) How to attain a healthy work life balance.
(6:50) The power of setting realistic expectations.
(10:23) Define oscillating lifestyle.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Take some time this holiday season to recharge and set realistic expectations for yourself and others in the coming new year.
Inclusion is a verb. Verbs are words of action. This week's guest has dedicated her life to helping organizations practice the action of inclusion. Listen to Nikki Pardo, Owner, Global Alliance Solutions Diversity Training and Consulting as she discusses diversity and inclusion with us.
QUOTE IT
“Diversity (noun) is our differences … inclusion (verb) is nirvana.” (8:41)
“You’re one article away from being exposed.” (11:29)
“The U.S. Census is tracking that by the year 2050 there will be no majority race” (14:21)
DIG IN
(8:18) Define diversity and inclusion.
(13:10) A case study to learn and experience practical application of diversity and inclusion.
(14:19) The movement.
(15:04) The emerging understanding and differentiator.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Learn to be curious and connect with others who aren’t likeminded to discover the opportunities.
This is the second of our follow ups we recorded this fall. We just couldn't get enough of Anita Quillen and thought you all would benefit from a deeper dive into her story.
QUOTE IT
“My knowledge just keep growing because I didn’t close any door.” (4:24)
“Listen to yourself so you can learn these things in time.” (6:48)
“Keep marching forward.” (8:56)
DIG IN
(6:07) Doing although afraid.
(7:02) Teaching others to be successful leaders.
(9:34) Overcoming barriers and obstacles.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Everyone has fear. The winners forge ahead in spite of these fears.
For the next couple of weeks we're going to get the personal stories of two fascinating ladies. This week is a follow up to our interview with Karen Slaughter-DuPerry. Listen to her story and share with your friends to provide some motivation!
QUOTE IT
“Listen and then feedback to the person: 'I thought I heard you say.'” (4:26)
“Are you just doing something or are you solving an issue?” (8:30)
“I was the roadblock buster.” (11:02)
DIG IN
(4:00) Listening, a trait for successful executives.
(5:45) Spend time with a blank piece of paper to shape or transform the current entity.
(7:26) Use collaborative listening to create the vision.
(9:09) Ability to be a really good implementer.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Listen with an open mind. Preconceived ideas can interfere with an effective solution.
100 episodes, nearly 2,300 minutes or over 38 hours of PureReinvention. What a ride! Team PureReinvention takes a few minutes to talk about the last couple of years and provides some hints of what's to come.
QUOTE IT
“There becomes the power where others are starting to initiate energy into this PureReinvention process because they now see where it connects into the value of what their journey is.” (5:40)
DIG IN
(3:22) The movement of PureReinvention podcasts
(6:20) Opportunities to connect with likeminded individuals
Tip of the week:
Use the PureReinvention podcasts for inspiration. Reach out to us and guests to build your network. Share your PureReinvention story with us!
It can be a lonely place being a young disrupter. That's why its good to reach out and network with others and find a support network. Fortunately for us, Greg Rokisky, social and digital media consultant, found his way to PureReinvention (a safe harbor for disrupters) and will be spearheading our social media communities going into 2017. We think Greg's story is inspiring.
QUOTE IT
“The easiest way to sell a product or to increase your bottom line as a brand or to achieve a goal is to find likeminded individuals around you.” (7:42)
“I know I’m not alone now because there is an organization that encourages others to think how I’m thinking.” (11:49)
DIG IN
(6:42) How to build a community.
(14:16) How PureReinvention helps to support a community of likeminded individuals.
(18:36) Why PureReinvention.
Tip of the week:
Be open to new and possibly intimidating tools and strategies. Ensue creativity and vulnerability to fuel your next sustainable change.
Simplification is central to the reinvention process. A major element of this simplification process is the short mission statement or a simple diagram to convey where the key stakeholders need to keep their focus. In this week's interview with Kevin Shaw, vice president of marketing with Weiland, we learn how important it is to ask the right questions and simplify wherever possible.
QUOTE IT
“Retain talent by inviting people to have a piece of the action.” (4:44)
“Solve problems before they become problems.” (16:09)
DIG IN
(3:27) Developing a sustainable succession plan.
(8:22) A defining moment with simplify.
(10:24) Moving quickly towards the marketplace.
Tip of the week:
Keep your mission simple. Use one a one page statement or an easy to understand diagram to convey the plan to all stakeholders.
How does a young woman succeed in a male dominated manufacturing industry? Anita Quillen shows us how. She empowers employees, learns her audience and competitors, and doesn't back down from uncomfortable situations. Anita Quillen, president and CEO of Diversified Engineering & Plastics is truly an inspiration!
QUOTE IT
“Teach yourself to take a step back before you approach anything.” (4:28)
“You can’t control everything . . . give them the room to be successful.” (5:52)
“Providing the flexibility for real life.” (10:24)
“Learn from everything you interact with.” (16:48)
DIG IN
(4:11) Learn to use difficult conversations to create movement.
(5:33) Learn to be comfortable leading from the backseat.
(7:44) The power of learning your audience.
(9:34) Closing the gap with hiring the right people.
Tip of the Week:
Are you giving your people enough room to be successful? Sometimes showing flexibility will pay great dividends.
Sometimes it's difficult for non-profits to clearly identify their customers. Failure to do so can quickly lead to irrelevance and make it impossible to get the necessary funds even for the most worthy causes. Join us for this week's episode with Ken Toll, president and CEO of the United Way of Jackson County and learn how Ken is working hard to reach out and communicate with his stakeholders.
QUOTE IT
“How do we create systems level improvements in this community?” (6:25)
“Collective impact methodology of solving problems . . . You may not know where you’re going but if you don’t take the first step you’re not going to get there.” (8:44)
“The more we talk the more our customer base grows.” (9:45)
DIG IN
(3:44) How to achieve community impact.
(6:45) Reinventive communication focus.
(10:48) How to balance political push and data driven decisions.
Tip of the week:
Consider the collective impact methodology of solving problems – take some small steps, do prototyping and testing, get feedback loops going and seize the opportunities from lowest first and build upon them.
Connect is the most multifaceted fundamental in PureReinvention. This week's short follows up on Carrie Ramirez's blog on connect and provides us with some insight on how to connect people, actions and opportunities.
QUOTE IT
“See the web of connections” (5:10)
“The only way to beat your enemy is to know them so well that you can love them.” (6:13)
“I can take my skills and my strengths and maximize those and minimize my weaknesses because I’ve balanced them out with someone else who has the strengths I don’t have.” (6:54)
DIG IN
How we make connect our best weapon through the web of connections:
(5:29) People
(7:29) Actions
(8:44) Opportunity
Tip of the week
Do a self-evaluation before taking action. In what way will you make a difference? Who will you reach out to? What actions will you connect between you and them? What are the opportunities?
Connectual intelligence isn't a word, but we think it should be. Monica Moser, president and CEO of Jackson Community Foundation teaches us this concept and how connecting community leaders has created a cradle to career educational model in Jackson that's being talked about across the country.
QUOTE IT
“You’re never done. When you think you’ve got something figured out and you’ve put some things into place, you realize you have to disrupt it all over again.” (3:05)
“Almost every conversation could potentially be a difficult conversation.” (5:36)
“We're building a community of leaders that trust one another. Even if it’s a hard conversation to have the conversation.” (11:16)
DIG IN
(3:41) Cradle to career educational model (collective impact model of systems change).
(6:03) How to prepare for disruption.
(7:26) The power of looking in the rearview mirror to celebrate success.
(12:53) Failing forward.
(17:20) Define the best unword “conceptual intelligence."
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Ask yourself: How do I listen? Am I listening to understand or am I listening for what to say next?
Move. Move. Move! That’s the mantra of one of Michigan’s prominent leaders of the manufacturing industry. Chuck Hadden, president and CEO of the Michigan Manufacturers Association embodies move. Wether encouraging staff to “go to bat” and try new ideas or his extensive travel and meeting with members across the state, Chuck teaches us how to practice the “move” fundamental of PureReinvention.
In this episode Chuck shares his enthusiasm about hitting the road and talking to his members. His stories and energy make for a great podcast.
Sponsored by:
HRM Services
QUOTE IT
“I tell everybody, I want to hit 300 ball. I want to miss twice and hit once.” (4:37)
“It’s a very competitive business and you’ve got to be out there marketing it.” (8:58)
“If you sit in your office, you’re going to read emails.”(17:00)
DIG IN
(4:31) Chuck talks about how important move is to a leader.
(6:03) Chuck talks about how to minimize risk when taking chances.
(8:20) Chuck talks about the need to be on the road to be the face and identity of MMA to its members.
(10:13) Chuck talks about how MMA uses member stories to be part of the association’s marketing model and how it provides value to it’s members.
(15:10) Chuck talks about how creative leadership in finding new opportunities.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Leaders must spend significant time in the field connecting to stakeholders. Set a goal of dedicating a good portion of your time to this task and stick to it.
Inclusion is a behavior. It's more than simply inviting someone to the table. If you want buy-in and true supporters, they have to know they're genuinely part of the process. Karen Slaughter-DuPerry, project management & community relations executive of the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy teaches us how to embody this behavior through her experience with building the necessary support to make the revitalized Detroit riverfront a reality.
Sponsored by:
WillPower Consulting
QUOTE IT
“We achieved something great.” (10:24)
“Nobody was more important than anybody.” (11:28)
“The diversity is already there. You just have to respect the diversity.” (12:21)
DIG IN
(7:36) Building an impactful community for product development (inclusivity and ownership.)
(10:01) Get inspired by shared ownership.
(14:55) Spinning the assumingly negative to your advantage.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Consider forgoing meeting minutes (if your bylaws or governing rules permit) to encourage attendance and engagement.
Many people have told us that PureReinvetion helps a great deal in their personal lives as well. Jodi Parker shares her personal story in this week’s episode. This is a must listen episode if you need a little inspiration to get moving in a positive direction!
Sponsored by:
MBStrategies
QUOTE IT
“I knew I had gotten to a place where I wasn’t excited anymore.” (5:14)
“It has to first start with you.” (9:23)
“Getting on the bus.” (9:47)
DIG IN
(3:25) The switch turned on with WE.INVENT experience
(7:19) Inspired by the language of PureReinvention
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Take the PureReinvention fundamentals and apply them to your personal life. Reach out to friends to share your situation and use them to formulate a plan and help you be accountable in your progress.
Carrie Ramirez has learned to connect and build teams to face seemingly insurmountable tasks. By connecting and simplifying one can handle the constant changes we all face. Listen this week to how Carrie applies these principles as a senior audit manager with General Motors as well as in her personal life.
QUOTE IT
“A language coming together with what I was experiencing in my personal life and my professional life—all coming together—giving me a way to talk about it.” (5:19)
“Disruption is the opportunity step . . . creating space to go forward.” (9:46)
PureReinvention is “overwhelmingly positive when you’re ready.” (11:28)
DIG IN
(5:30) Application of PureReinvention fundamentals in business.
(7:15) Application of PureReinvention fundamentals in personal life.
(17:11) Approach to make major tasks more palatable.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Don't be overwhelmed by seemingly daunting tasks. Take major tasks and break them into small parts.
Do you plan retreats for your organization? Do you find it difficult to put together inspiring programs for your team? Look no further than PureReinvention! The PureReinvention team has spent the last two years looking for inspiring people and stories from the Detroit experience to help you create a retreat that will invigorate your team. In this episode, Mike and Jodi talk to Julie Novak and Ben Louagie of the Michigan State Medical Society about their experience with a PureReinvention retreat.
Sponsored by:
WillPower Consulting
QUOTE IT
“People are doing hard things in a lot of different places and they're being very successful at it.” (8:04)
“We had an opportunity to not only learn but also experience and see things that were outside of where our normal paths would lead us.” (9:38)
“The value of it carries on long beyond the experience itself.” (13:02)
“Placing what is important ahead of what is urgent.” (19:50)
DIG IN
(2:44) Michigan State Medical Society's reasoning for a corporate retreat.
(5:27) The value in retreating to a unique and relevant space.
(12:06) The most dramatic return on investment for Michigan State Medical Society.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Investigate the PureReinvention corporate retreat offering. We intentionally construct an experience that will take each participant through the five fundamentals of PureReinvention using Detroit's reinvention as the learning laboratory to highlight these steps.
Mindy is a go-getter. She gets things done. You'd think someone with this temperament wouldn't have time for other's opinions, but you'd be wrong. Collaborating and connecting are a vital part of how Mindy accomplishes things. Listen to this episode as Mike talks to Mindy about the power of connecting and collaborating in her role as President/Executive Director of the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce and Experience Jackson.
Sponsored by:
MB Strategies
QUOTE IT
“There is very little in this day and age that hasn’t already been tried. So, why not learn from the people that did it.” (6:57)
“What roadblocks . . . will I run into that I don’t even see coming?” (7:17)
“What are we not going to do?” (14:44)
“Try to use my two ears more than my one mouth.” (15:51)
DIG IN
(5:08) How the chamber transferred lessons learned from Midtown Detroit.
(10:00) How to measure movement.
(11:06) Barriers to movement.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Establish "check points" in your project timeline to stop and see who's still with you. If key players have dropped out, find out why and adjust your strategy.
Jordan Skole is a marketing automation consultant and has had a great deal of experience in helping clients simplify their lives through asking the right questions. In this episode Mike talks with Jordan about his recent work with The Iron Yard's Detroit Campus training the next generation of software developers.
Sponsored by:
HRM Services
QUOTE IT
“Simplify . . . Remove a lot of the noise. Focus on the signal.” (2:37)
“The goal is to keep . . . in the struggling productively zone.” (7:27)
“Go after, seek and capture what we want to create . . .” (11:32)
DIG IN
The value of uncomfortable situations. (4:39)
Define the zone of struggling productively. (7:35)
How the city of Detroit connects to individuals and businesses. (9:15)
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Mentors are great to bounce ideas, be honest and share emotional struggles. Use several mentors to get different perspectives, but have the courage to make your own decisions.
Mentors are great to bounce ideas, be honest and share emotional struggles. Use several mentors to get different perspectives, but have the courage to make your own decisions.
Ever wonder why PureReinvention spends so much time in Detroit? We've spent quite a bit of time over the last two years interviewing movers and shakers from many different communities in Detroit. Detroit is the learning laboratory and shows us all the fundamentals of PureReinvention every day. Listen to Mike and Jodi talk about what Detroit means to the PureReinvention project.
QUOTE IT
“Study it [Detroit] from other people’s perspectives in the city.” (9:15)
“Openly share the bumps and bruises that they got along the way.” (9:35)
“Detroit could be the spark for others to be inspired by reinvention.” (9:49)
DIG IN
(3:21) How Detroit embodies the five steps of PureReinvention?
(11:49) The value of the PureReinvention experience.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Take a trip to Detroit and experience first hand reinvention in action.
All of us have some kind of passion in us though most have that passion held back by fear. This week's guest, Karlene Belyea has many hats. She's the CEO of the Michigan Veterinary Medical Association, a motivational speaker, a consultant, and a singer in a band. Karlene looks for the passion inside people and helps to bring it out.
QUOTE IT
"I have this fire within me that wants to burn brightly and get out . . . I am going to stir things up . . . and do some new things." (6:29)
"All great changes are preceded by chaos." (9:53)
"We aren’t responsible for our first thought but we are responsible for the second thought and what comes out of our mouth." (12:36)
DIG IN
(3:39) Where reinvention starts.
(6:55) How to follow your passion and get out of your comfort zone.
(11:15) Chaos is a step into creating movement.
(12:42) Use power lead to spin negativity.
TIP OF THE WEEK:
Use a "power lead" to address negativity in the workplace. Set the tone in your conversations by making positive statements to begin the conversation.
Social media has changed the game in connecting to audiences and giving individuals and organizations great opportunities to tell their stories. This offers unique opportunities for those who have a system in place to utilize these assets. John Stocki is the owner of the Stocki Exchange, a company dedicated to helping hospitality businesses with their branding and messaging. In this episode, John shares with us his tactics on using social media to test new ideas and tell his clients’ stories.
Sponsored By:
HRM Services
QUOTE IT
“It is less about the what … sell experiences” (6:26)
“All the information you get through digital channels is in black and white and give a sense of trackability” (13:10)
“You have to be able to respond quickly and consistently with smaller bits of content” (14:10)
DIG IN
(4:55) Identify your unique offering.
(14:16) What influences disruptive nature.
(9:40) The role of failure in the reinvention process.
Tip of the week:
Use your social media channels to test new ideas. The response to these posts will provide invaluable insights to your customers’ needs and wants.
Many organizations have been rethinking the annual report and using these traditionally mundane reports as an opportunity to tell their stories. Robin Miner-Swartz has led the charge on this and has helped non-profits and her clients to take full advantage of these valuable opportunities to explain the why.
Quote It
[10:58] “If you can be a utility player in your office, you are a really valuable person.”
[14:56] “How would you explain to your mom what you do?”
[15:31] “In reinvention we have to understand what our story is.”
[16:14] “Start with why”
Dig in
[4:40] Response to disruption and strategy to navigate your career journey
[1416] How to tell your unique story
Tip of the week
Take your annual report and other traditionally mundane documents and use it to tell your story. These reports are valuable opportunities to convey the why to your customers and stakeholders.
Many of us have gone through the strategic planning process only to have a large document that sits on the shelf to collect dust. The PureReinvention method of strategic planning places an emphasis on simplify. Listen to Mike and Misty as they explain the one page strategic plan and learn how you can effectively implement a living document that you'll be using as a daily guide to keep you on task.
Sponsored by:
HRM Services
QUOTE IT “A strategic plan needs to be a guide for the executive or for the business to understand where it’s going.” (4:09)
“The person who’s doing the strategic plan is the person who’s going to write the strategic plan.” (7:00) “Where does this fall on my list of priorities?” (9:48) DIG IN * (4:35) Start with the end in mind * (5:09) Identify your owners * (7:30) Be realistic * (8:42) Prioritize * (3:12) Display it and use it as a decision making tool
Tip of the week: Get the one page strategic plan template on our mobile app and create your own sustainable plan.
I WANT MY TRANSCRIPT
Resources: Podcast 023: Dru Mitchell
Even the best projects can fail because of lack of communication. This week's guest, Thomas Woiwode teaches us how to reach out to all stakeholders and adapt to meet their needs.
Thomas Woiwode is the Director of the Greenways Initiative of the Community Foundation for Southeastern Michigan. The GreenWays Initiative was developed with several years of input from more than 70 organizations and agencies, as well as the encouragement and support of a group of community leaders committed to building greenways. Recent projects include the Dequindre Cut and the Midtown Loop Greenway.
Sponsored by:
QUOTE IT "I think they started to get the vision and understand exactly what this could do for the community" (12:15) "We knew that we were working on something that was truly unique and we wanted to make sure the public understood that as well" (13:15) "The public has to own and appreciate the value"(13:45) DIG IN * (5:30) Nontraditional solutions require us to listen to others. Your initial approach that we know may not be correct. Enjoy and pay attention to what others are saying. * (7:40) What does your major asset connect to in your community? * (11:15) Sequential thinking helps to put individual steps into a coordinated effort.
Tip of the week: Practice your strategic thinking. Diagram your professional or organizational assets and how are they connected. Keep this diagram as a constant reminder to keep you focused.
(Ex. the Dequindre Cut connects the riverfront to the Eastern Market and thus to the neighborhoods. The Dequindre Cut became the connector, allowing the population access to the riverfront, and its many activities and benefits.)
Do you call your business to know what the customer is experiencing? This week's guest is all about the customer experience. Vaughn Derderian, owner of the Anchor Bar in Detroit discusses customer experience, empowering staff and vendor relationships.
Quote It
1- “When you have a staff that knows what they're supposed be doing - they know their job but when they encounter a situation that's a little bit challenging - that they don't know exactly how to handle, my job is to be there and give them the confidence to know the right answer.” (2:48)
2 - "We took our menu and trimmed a lot of the the stuff that wasn’t really moving and focused more on providing what I call a salad -burger experience because that’s what we really do.” (12:56)
Dig In
(3:13) A shift in culture creates the opportunity for your next success.
Embrace the technology that exists today.
(4:25) Successful businesses create an authentic vibe. Create a unique
atmosphere and build your community.
(5:42) Are you attracting enough new business every month? Treat every
customer as if they are a friendship you value and your business will grow.
(11:34) Simplify: You cannot be all things to all people. Do you really know
what drives your customers to your business? Be the best at what you really
do well, your customers will notice!
Tip of the Week:
Call your business and understand the customer experience. Is that the kind
of experience you would want to have? Be the absolute best customer for your
business to evaluate the true experience.
How much of your time are you willing to devote to exploring new ideas?
In this PureReinvention Short, Mike and Misty answer a listener question about designing a safe space to collaborate and test ideas.
Sponsored by: WillPower Consulting
QUOTE IT
“The most successful companies create space for a laboratory where you can test new ideas.” (1:25)
DIG IN
At 3:04 Mike explains why PureReinvention uses Detroit as its learning laboratory.
If you’re stuck putting out fires and being reactive with no time for space to plan, or think about next steps, listen in at 6:13 for some advice to break the cycle.
TAKEAWAYS
It’s ok to have wrong answers, but don’t be afraid to try new stuff.
Build time into your daily schedule to explore new ideas and rework old ones.
Healthy companies are building products and procedures for the future.
A strong community can help you develop and polish new possibilities.
It's ok to not have all of the answers. And the stronger your network, the less risk there is in what you don't know.
Our podcast guest says she is all about relationships. Michelle Strasz is the director of the Capital Area College Access Network and describes herself as the bridge and translator for different groups sitting around the table. She talks to us about collaborative leadership, fresh starts and why you shouldn't resist change.
QUOTE IT
"Tension can be used for good, ultimately to get to the right outcome as an organization." (7:27)
"It's not just listenening to the words people say, it's their body language or seeing how they interact...and understanding what's the core thing driving them." (12:24)
DIG IN
Go to 5:51 to hear Michelle describe how to handle change without becoming paralyzed by fear or over analysis.
At 10:25 Michelle tells a story about how she identified commonalities and organizational gaps at a new job that might help you the next time you need to assess a new environment.
TAKEAWAYS
Change is a natural part of any process, it doesn't have to be good or bad.
Understand what is driving your decisions.
Assess the dynamics of a situation, including the different motivators at play.
Put together solutions that benefit the majority of the group.
Be the model for engaging with others.
An organization that effectively shifts and responds to changing times is usually powered by a team of people that are motivated to make decisions that move the organization forward.
Dan Trotochaud is the president of Superior Hospitality Partners and was a long-time board member with the Michigan Lodging and Tourism Association. In this episode, Dan talks about his decades of experience hiring and training staff that take ownership of more than their day-to-day duties.
Sponsored by: MB Strategies
QUOTE IT
“If you have a staff that is all acting like the owner, and thinking like the owner, it’s easier to bring that team together to get the results you’re after.” (3:32)
“You can connect [someone] with the right people and all of a sudden that person has opportunities that are endless. The sky’s the limit.” (15:38)
DIG IN
Get some inspiration to update your interview style at 3:57 after listening to Dan’s philosophy on hiring staff that think like owners.
Jump to 8:07 to hear Dan’s approach to giving staff the latitude to make decisions with an owner mindset.
TAKEAWAYS
Employing owners begins with the hiring process.
Hire people that are passionate and curious about your organization’s purpose, and teach the necessary skills to do the job.
Don’t immediately punish a bad decision, talk about it first.
pure
Sponsored by: WillPower Consulting QUOTE IT “We encouraged people not to worry about borders and boundaries, and taking chances to maybe cross-promote with another community.” (4:37) “I need to take care of myself, and keep myself motivated. I do that by getting out into the industry as much as I can and be engaged with the industry as much as I can.” (11:49) DIG IN Get Dave’s perspective on the importance of branding and how it can make or break your product at 7:39. Hear a great story around 14:26 about a time recently when Dave witnessed a group of people visiting Detroit for the first time, their reaction and what that meant to him. TAKEAWAYS Nurture a supportive culture for a high-functioning team. Engage with others in your industry to check the pulse of what’s happening and what’s hot. Your brand is about the emotional connection people have with the idea of your company or organization. Let the data redirect your approach at every move. There’s an entrepreneurial spirit in Detroit that is evident everywhere from the local shops to the big businesses.
Pat Gillespie is the chief visionary, founder and president of Gillespie Group. Under his leadership, Gillespie Group has been at the forefront of development and property management, and is recognized as a driving force for progress. Whether Pat’s transforming blighted landscapes into in-demand urban living spaces, finding creative funding solutions or working with businesses to attract new talent, he’s always focused on finding solutions to other people’s problems. Sponsored by: HRM Services QUOTE IT “Every part is a building block...I wouldn’t be able to do what I’m doing now if I didn’t have mistakes and successes.” (5:50) “It’s not about going out and preaching, it’s about saying ‘what do you envision for our community?’” (12:44) DIG IN At 8:33 Pat describes one of his key strategies to reinventing the real estate development space, and it’s an approach that can be applied to many other industries. Jump to 11:12 to hear Pat’s expert advice on how to work with people who resist change. TAKEAWAYS Communicating is about listening. Get buy in by pointing back to your mission. If you’re part of the problem, do something about it. Channel success by staying connected to what’s going on outside of your business. Making mistakes is part of finding solutions.
In this PureReinvention Short, we answer a listener question that asked us where we go for new ideas.
Sponsored by: WillPower
QUOTE IT
“The key here is to pay attention to what captures your attention.” (1:15)
“I don’t go there seeking something specific out, I just go there seeking.” (3:28)
DIG IN
At 2:01 Mike tells you the one thing you have to do if you want a different outcome.
TAKEAWAYS
Fight the urge to stay inside your known networks when looking for something new.
There’s a big difference between seeking something specific and seeking something.
Keep a swipe file of ideas even if you don’t know when (or if) they will come in handy.
RESOURCES
Mashable:
Mashable is a global, multi-platform media and entertainment company. Powered by its own proprietary technology, Mashable is the go-to source for tech, digital culture and entertainment content for its dedicated and influential audience around the globe.
Mic.News:
Mic was founded in 2011 by Chris Altchek and Jake Horowitz under the shared belief that millennials are inquisitive, have a healthy skepticism for conventional wisdom, and crave substantive news to spark interesting conversations.
Medium:
Medium connects you with voices and perspectives that matter. It is your daily news reimagined, straight from the people who are making and living it. Discover and follow your favorite writers and the stories that matter to you, every day.
Everyone struggles from time to time with the little voice inside their head that says “what if…?” What if you fail? What if you really mess things up? What if you don’t?
Self-proclaimed people connector and owner of Detroit’s Firebird Tavern, Tony Piraino is no stranger to that little voice. But he has another question for you: Does a pylon stop traffic or do you drive around it? In this episode Tony talks about taking calculated risks and doing little things every day to evolve and stay connected to your customers.
Sponsored by: Detroit Experience Factory
QUOTE IT
“The act of going after it and failing and the act of not doing anything are two dramatically different things.” (2:44)
“You’ve gotta talk yourself into change a little bit, and it doesn’t come easy for me exactly, but when you look at the big picture you have to do it.” (7:20)
DIG IN
Tony offers up some unconventional advice about evolving your brand at the 7:50 mark.
Starting at 13:10 Tony tells a story about a simple business decision that led to attracting lifelong customers and why those customers stick around as Detroit evolves and grows.
TAKEAWAYS
A disruption in your normal routine can be a fortuitous bounce to your next big thing.
Bad circumstances can be transformed into a lucky break if you pause and look for opportunity in the commotion.
The right time to look for your next product or service is when your current offerings are doing well.
If you’re doing work you love, you’re more likely to figure out how to keep moving ahead in the face of adversity.
Episode 072 - Yodit Mesfin Johnson - courageous conversations
In recent episodes, making space for what’s meaningful has been an emerging theme. This interview with Yodit Mesfin Johnson follows a similar track, but brings a whole new perspective to the conversation.
As COO of Nonprofit Enterprise at Work and Founder of Lips and Hips, Yodit finds wealth in her connections. In this episode, Yodit shares her views on rising to new challenges, the problem with equity and why connection is her super power.
QUOTE IT
“As life happens, sometimes we distance ourselves...shame fear, doubt, insecurity shows up and you sort of retreat, right? Maybe you don’t have that village or connectedness. It’s been my life’s journey to stay connected.” (8:08)
See the humanity in people, not their pedigree.
DIG IN
At 6:20 Yodit lays down a challenge for all of our listeners. Will you accept?
Jump to 10:12 for Yodit’s view on the difference between being an ally and being an accomplice for change.
TAKEAWAYS
A change-driven lifestyle presses on the edges of your comfort zone.
Move the needle by getting to the heart of a matter.
Shift the culture by shifting people.
Staying connected creates a community that you can draw on for support and insight.
You have to recognize something is broken before you can fix it.
RESOURCES
Daniel Pollatta: The Way We think About Charity is Dead Wrong
Seth Godin Blog: More Powerful than You Know
In this PureReinvention Short, we answer a listener question about how to make more time for personal and professional development.
Your question could be answered next! Send us your questions about barriers to making space. In other words, we want to help you get better at hitting the pause button.
Email your question to hello@purereinveintion.com or leave it as a message on our reinvention hotline, 989-249-3885.
Sponsored by: Reinvention Retreats
QUOTE IT
“This is one of those things that you need to make a priority and choose to invest time and money into. Once it’s there, you can take it wherever you go.” (2:08)
“Is it possible that people don’t value the investment they are making because it’s too closely aligned with what they already know?” (5:15)
DIG IN
Around 2:30 Mike tells a story about what made him change the way he approached professional development.
At 8:00 Misty and Mike wrap-up their answer with a quick review of their tips on how to make time for professional development.
TAKEAWAYS
Professional development is an investment you can take wherever you go.
Look outside of your industry for new learning opportunities.
Find ways to expose yourself to new ideas and connect them to the work you do.
RESOURCES
Will’s Blog: 3 Roadblocks that Keep Us from Making Space
How to download our mobile app to get the free worksheet that will help you identify new sources of professional development.
Are you wondering what it would be like to take a leap of faith to pursue a dream? This week’s guest jumped into the unknown and has some words of advice from the other side.
April Anderson, co-owner of Good Cakes and Bakes in Detroit is known for her unique entrepreneurial style, strong sense of community and her delicious gooey butter cakes.
In this episode, April dishes on taking risks and why community is so important for success. But if you want to know why people can’t stop talking about her pastries you’ll have to visit her shop to find out for yourself.
Sponsored by: Detroit Experience Factory
QUOTE IT
“Pop-up means you get the opportunity to occupy a space [for a set amount of time] kind of like a test market, where you can pop-up without a lot of commitment.” (9:52)
“They don’t teach community, it’s something that you want” (14:05)
“You can’t come into a community and decide what they need, you have to come into a community and find out what they want.” (16:28)
DIG IN
6:48 A keynote opportunity with former President Bill Clinton asked Detroit leaders to be connected with a small business entrepreneur in the city.
At 18:46 April shares her philosophy on the importance of diversity and inclusion when creating something different than what exists today.
TAKEAWAYS
Explore how you can pop-up in different spaces to sample markets for your product.
Ask yourself if you want to be a destination or a community spot, then behave accordingly.
A sense of community is the core of a business, products are the bonus.
The only way you have success is if everyone’s invited to the party.
You can’t succeed if you don’t try.
PureReinvention Podcast 069
Yanni Dionisopoulos built a hip, modern club on the foundation of his family’s 45-year-old restaurant in Detroit’s Greektown by staying busy and focused on the outcome.
For more than a decade the second-generation owner/operator of the Golden Fleece Restaurant and owner/co-creator of the new EXODOS Rooftop & Lounge has been navigating the delicate balance of respecting tradition while on a mission to stay relevant and in-demand. In this episode, Yanni talks about the value of good customer service, the struggles of leading a team and how Detroit is putting its own unique stamp on today’s reinvention space.
Thanks to our episode sponsors
MB Strategies
Detroit Experience Factory
TAKEAWAYS
Learn from your everyday routines.
Explore different ways to give additional responsibilities to employees and co-workers that want to help improve outcomes.
Busy is not an excuse. There is always time to make happen what you want to happen.
Consistent deliverables and solid customer relationships are the foundation of long-term success.
Think long-term and do the work to get there.
This podcast is produced by WillPower.
If you could build your company for scratch today, would it be the same as it’s built today? What would be different?
After speaking to the Global Tax Reporting and Compliance team at General Motors about continuous reinvention, Mike sat down with the division’s General Director, Catherine Boston. Catherine believes leaders today have to think differently to deliver value and minimize risk while empowering staff at every level.
Sponsored by: Purereinvention STARTERS
QUOTE IT
“Continuous reinvention is who we are now…it’s is not a project, it’s part of your day-to-day function.” (7:18)
“It’s easy to think about creativity when you’re in product design or research…but in the finance space the opportunity is just as great to do core functions in a creative, thoughtful way that’s going to deliver value.” (14:25)
Tweet: Continuous #reinvention is who we are now. It’s is not a project, it’s part of your day-to-day function via @PureReinvention
DIG IN
Listen at 5:30 to hear Catherine explain the term she coined to keep her team operating as a model for sustainable change within the company.
Dive deep around 10:55 as Catherine describes the push-pull relationship she has with her team in what she describes as “the core of what is expected of a professional today.”
TAKEAWAYS
Empowering individuals to take ownership drives greater success from the group.
Continuous reinvention is essential for personal and professional growth.
Analyze your company through the lens of a start-up. What would a they do differently?
Make the basic strategic values of your company or team open to your team.
Take advantage of the ownership you are given.
If used correctly, disruption at work can make the best possible impact.
In this PureReinvention Short, we answer a listener question about how big and small disruptions in work patterns can have the power to continuously reinvent your organization.
Your question could be answered next! Send us your questions about barriers to making space. In other words, we want to help you get better at hitting the pause button.
Email your question to hello@purereinveintion.com or leave it as a message on our reinvention hotline, 989-249-3885.
PS - You can ask us other questions, too! It might be the topic of a future PureReinvention Short episode. Even if we don’t use your question on the podcast, we will personally get back to you with some tips to help you successfully navigate the problem.
Sponsored by: PureReinvention STARTERS
QUOTE IT
“We have to recognize what kind of pattern we are looking for to recognize whether the pattern we have is the correct one.” (1:57)
“Instead of you becoming a disruptor, you are becoming a catalyst for other people to feed off you and create new energies that didn’t exist before.” (5:52)
DIG IN
If you are in a pattern that you don’t want, listen at 2:40 to hear how to disrupt it.
At 8:48 we give you a quick wrap-up of the three tips that will help you manage disruption at work.
TAKEAWAYS
Don’t disrupt a pattern if it’s already doing the right things.
Openly state your intention and follow through.
Be a disruptor of the simple things.
Whitney Spotts: putting curiosity, authenticity and creativity in play
Motivation is not one size fits all, and neither are leadership skills. Our conversation today dishes out a unique perspective on how curiosity and creativity can turn unexpected outcomes into happy accidents.
Whitney Spotts, promotions coordinator at Schuler Books, hits us with important lessons in authenticity, approaching situations with a beginner’s mind and letting yourself get lost in order to find out where you’re going. That last one might sound a little cliche, but as Whitney shares in this podcast, she lost her fear of getting lost (literally and metaphorically) because she learned that by staying open to possibility she is often rewarded with learning something new or discovering a solution to a problem.
Sponsored by: PureReinvention STARTERS
QUOTE IT
“I am fascinated by everything... so a large part of my problem has been determining which direction to focus my energies.”(4:14)
“One thing that’s really important is maintaining your sense of authenticity. I think one of the reasons I make people so comfortable is that I’m myself no matter what.” (13:30)
(A note from the team: We were so close to making this another dig in point. If you have time, listen to this part of the interview. You won’t be disappointed!)
DIG IN
Listen in at 5:45 to hear a simple trick Whitney uses to shake up her routine when she feels stuck in a rut.
At 11:30 Whitney shares the one leadership skill that she applies in her day job as well as in her role as the lead singer of Starfarm, a popular 80s cover band.
TAKEAWAYS
Small disruptions in your day-to-day routine can shake loose new creative thought.
When you look toward the future, make sure you’re also on the lookout for different ways to get there.
Learn how to motivate others the way they need to be motivated.
Maintain your sense of authenticity.
Get lost on purpose.
Jeanette Stawski: moving into your future space
A major hiking accident made this week’s guest analyze if she was, in her words, “unconsciously incompetent.” That self-reflection turned into devotion to lifelong learning.
Jeanette Stawski, executive director of the Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education (AORE), has a unique way of applying her background in competitive sports and experience as an outdoor enthusiast to her desk job. Jeanette has a passion for lifelong learning that will inspire you to take a page out of her playbook and push beyond your comfort zone.
Sponsored by: PureReinvention STARTERS
QUOTE IT
“I love to put myself in a space where I feel like I have to work a little harder to make it successful.” (5:32)
“The landscape is not perfectly clear in front of me but I believe in something, I believe in this bigger thing.” (16:59
DIG IN
At 9:05 Jeanette explains expedition behavior and how it can make you a better leader.
Starting at 14:35 hear Jeanette’s philosophy on how to get key players to buy in to your vision for change.
TAKEAWAYS
There is no endgame in lifelong learning.
Consistency is not the same as complacency.
Find out what you can do to encourage people to be more than they are.
Sometimes what’s very obvious to you isn’t obvious to everyone.
Never stop communicating the vision.
PureReinvention Podcast 064
Detroit is moving forward and today’s podcast guest is doing his part to create more momentum for the city through one of our favorite pastimes: food and drink.
Scott Rutterbush is the owner and co-founder of Dine Drink Detroit, a movement that’s bringing attention to one of the country’s most exciting emerging restaurant cultures. He sat down with us to talk about what the restaurant industry has taught him about trying new things (not just food!) and how he finds a treasure chest of experiences by taking the time to get to know all kinds of people and places.
April Boyle: activate ideas to (re)build a community
April Boyle found a gap in Detroit’s local entrepreneurial market and filled it. Now she’s making an impact on the city’s comeback by helping people turn their business ideas into reality.
April Boyle, executive director at Detroit’s Build Institute and her team have graduated over 700 aspiring and experienced entrepreneurs, many of whom have gone on to start successful businesses in Detroit.
Sponsored by: Detroit Experience Factory
QUOTE IT
“When you’re leading an organization in a city with as many challenges as Detroit has...every day I am out of my comfort zone.” (5:40)
“A disruptor sees things aren’t working and they try to solve the problem.” (10:28)
DIG IN
Go to 7:25 to learn about April’s process for making sure Build Institute reflects the local Detroit community it is intended to serve. Her approach is so simple and so effective.
At 12:05 April goes on to describe an emerging trend that is really important in the reinvention space.
TAKEAWAYS
It takes a community to activate ideas and build a successful business.
Disruption is a solution, not a problem.
A meaningful venture connects resources, ideas and information to an audience in need.
The pop-up culture is a low-risk testing ground for innovators and entrepreneurs to try out new or reinvented products and services.
Success looks different for different people
Marlowe Stoudamire created a project in Detroit, for Detroit, that has piqued the interest of a much broader audience.
In this episode, listen to the Founder and Chief Engagement Strategist of Butterfly Effect Detroit tell the story of why he transitioned from a high-paying corporate job to a social catalyst that activates forward movement in the City of Detroit. Marlowe is out to change the future of Detroit by making a difference today.
QUOTE IT
“Real change happens when you get everyone moving in the same direction, mobilizing them.” (5:02)
“It’s not always a rosy picture, but that doesn’t mean we stop trying, that doesn’t mean we stop working together. The momentum is important.” (13:30)
DIG IN
Jump to 7:56 to hear Marlowe describe a very personal metamorphosis that led him to realize that he wanted more meaning behind his work.
At 11:18 Marlow talks about his involvement with the Detroit Historical Society’s project, Detroit 1967: Looking Back to Move Forward (http://www.detroit1967.org/about/), an initiative to transform the culture in Detroit today to shape its future.
TAKEAWAYS
Invite your customers to listen, be heard. participate and take action.
There’s no value in having knowledge without sharing it.
Offer multiple opportunities for your audience to participate with your organization.
Build for the future.
Put yourself in situations that force you to collide with different people and ways of thinking.
PureReinvention Podcast 061
Surprise and delight. A tried-and-true method for keeping your target audience interested in what you have to offer. This podcast guest has weaved that thought process through a 65-plus-year-old family business to keep his customers coming back for more.
Business owner, author and speaker Phil Wrzesinski is the president and CEO of The Toy House, a business started by his grandparents in 1949. In this episode, Phil talks about how he is learning to compete with big-box businesses including online retailers and why team buy-in is so important when executing a vision.
QUOTE IT
“I have the ability to take hard concepts and make them easy.” (4:35)
“If you really want to get your customers to come back...you have to give [them] a little more over the top of what they expected.” (10:05)
DIG IN
- At 8:05 as Phil describes the unique value his company adds to the marketplace that makes it stand out against his competitors. As you listen, think about what your company does that differs from the competition and why.
- Make sure you catch Phil’s philosophy on getting team buy-in at 11:00. What he says reminds us of one of our favorite bits of advice; begin with the end in mind.
TAKEAWAYS
- To find your unique value proposition, look for your wow factor.
- Do what you think you do well, better.
- Customers want curated options tailored to their needs.
- Allow disruption to give you the space to take ownership of a problem.
- Nurture and celebrate your team members' personality traits that sustain, or even better, enhance the company’s unique value proposition.
- Make your company memorable and share-worthy by giving customers more than they expect.
Phil Knight: moving your mission forward every day
What did you do today to move your mission forward? This week’s guest says asking yourself that question every day is key to reinvention.
Dr. Phil Knight, executive director of the Food Bank Council of Michigan, is on a mission to look at hunger in a different way. He is taking a culture-driven approach to reframe the solution to an age-old problem; curing hunger. What he shares in this episode can be applied to any industry that needs a new way to to solve an old problem.
Sponsored by: HRM Services
QUOTE IT
“Failure is an opportunity to start over more intelligently.” (7:55)
“It has to be about creating opportunities - getting better at what we do - so when we win, [our customers] win.” (9:40)
DIG IN
At 14:18 Dr. Knight expands on how the Food Bank Council is applying the first three fundamentals of PureReinvention to accomplish its mission.
Listen at 17:15 for more on how Dr. Knight is working to intentionally lead a positive, mission-driven culture that he hopes will outlast his tenure with the organization.
TAKEAWAYS
Failure is part of the job.
An organization’s culture is a strong force that needs to be managed delicately.
Identify natural partners by asking, “Who wins when we win?”
Keep your principles in front of you.
Reach for a higher level of excellence.
Back for more? We don't blame you! These guys have so much insight bundled into their quips, jokes and great stories we could hardly wait to bring you part two. There is so much good stuff in this episode!
“I’ve worked harder and more on this show in the last five years than on any other job I've had, but I’ve never been more satisfied by the work that I do.”
-Jim Daldin
In part two of our interview with Tom and Jim, the creators of the PBS show UTR:Under the Radar Michigan, you'll get to hear their perspective on the major growth and innovation happening in Detroit, why learning never ends and how community is the real secret to success.
QUOTE IT
“...it’s by making them part of the process. We get some of our best, most creative ideas for segments from our viewers.” (10:10)
“When I was an intern in radio, my philosophy was just keep your mouth shut, learn as much as you can and if they ask you if you can do something say, ‘yes I can do it’ and figure it out. Don’t be afraid to fail.” (21:40)
DIG IN
Tune in at 6:20 to hear Jim describe how UTR Michigan has explored different avenues to expand the way they share stories and what they’ve learned along the way.
Hit the 16:00 mark to hear Tom explain why he believes so strongly in the power of the group for brainstorming and coming up with out-of-the-box ideas. (If there ever was a box in the first place).
TAKEAWAYS
The pace of change is happening faster and faster.
Put yourself out there - even when it feels like you’re too busy grinding through the day to day - make change by being the change.
Intentionally reform your old habits for doing business that are no longer serving the best interests of your organization.
Engage your customers/members by allowing them to be part of the process to create something new.
Keep a running idea list so you can revisit it and unlock new connections.
PureReinvention Podcast 058
This is a real-life story about turning lemons into lemonade...then building a lemonade stand...and adding staff, and making a bigger, better lemonade stand that attracts an ever-growing customer base while helping people from all over in a fun and engaging way. Don't believe us? Tune in and find out!
Listen to our latest episode now.
In this show, Tom Daldin and Jim Edelman, the creators of the PBS show UTR:Under the Radar Michigan, share the story of how they went from being out of work to creating the career of their dreams from scratch. Spoiler alert: It wasn't all smooth roads and sunny days.
Thanks to our episode sponsor
MB Strategies
QUOTE-IT MOMENTS
“This was the first time we said, you know what, if we’re going to keep doing the same things over and over again, we’re going to make the same mistakes.” (13:34)
“We’re doing this for ourselves now…We actually reinvented ourselves, found a way to pay our own bills and to help people help their businesses thrive.”(15:25)
DIG IN
At 9:15 hear why Tom says UTR is an “absolute personification” of PureReinvention. And keep listening because Tom and Jim go on to share an incredible story about the unexpected disruptions that pushed them together and let to the creation of their Emmy Award-winning show.
Jump to 26:25 to learn from Tom Daldin how to ride the wave of reinvention, stay focused and create your own brand of success; a MUST listen for those of you feeling like it’s time for a change.
TAKEAWAYS
Do not try this alone! Reinvention thrives when you work with others toward a common goal.
Take control of an unexpected disruption by turning it into an opportunity to analyze your next move instead of immediately jumping back into the same race.
When you find your niche, you are more willing to go the extra mile because you are committed to—and owning—the outcome.
Let the people you serve tell the story about your ideas, products and other offerings.
PureReinvention Podcast 057
Jodi Parker got so busy doing things for others that she stopped making time for herself. Have you been there?
Jodi is a graphic design specialist at Martin Waymire, a busy mom and wife, and a Greater Lansing Area Sports Hall of Fame inductee. In this episode, Jodi talks to us about a major turning point that made her re-examine her goals and the steps she was taking (or not taking) to achieve them.
QUOTE IT
“I suddenly found that I was nowhere near where I expected to be at this point in my life.” (6:50)
“If you don’t take time you might not ever realize that there is a problem.” (9:12)
DIG IN
Around 8:50 Jodi shares an important reinvention lesson she learned from participating in our WE.INVENT collective. She says it makes her feel like she has her mojo back!
Don’t let those dead ends deter you. At 10:50 Jodi has some stellar advice for finding a way through when you’re doing something new and hit a wall.
TAKEAWAYS
1 - Give yourself permission to take time for your own personal strategic planning.
2 - Perform status checks to make sure you’re heading in the direction you want to go.
3 - Reframe how you value your time; it’s not about how long something takes, it’s more about what you get out of it.
4 - When trying to do something new, seek out new contacts that can provide different perspectives outside of your tried-and-true network.
5 - Trust in the process when faced with unknowns
There are so many ways to connect and re-connect ideas and plans. Are you making the connections that will lead to your next growth spurt?
In this episode of the PureReinvention Podcst Rod Crittendon, executive vice president of the Michigan Floral Association shares some winning examples of how he has cultivated connections to help sustain and grow the organization.
QUOTE IT “We started looking at different ways to keep our association alive and to keep our members active and involved.” (6:10) “Get involved – don’t sit in your office with the door closed. Open your door, open your phones…get out, talk to people and embrace it.” (16:40) DIG IN
- About 10 minutes in, Mike asks Rod to elaborate on the importance of having diversified revenue streams in your business./li>
- Rod has some seasoned advice for new executives at 15:35 about how to lead strategic growth.
TAKEAWAYS
- Make sure your products and projects are creating diversified revenue that is invested back into your customer/member experience.
- Look for ways to stay connected to a broad scope of influences and influencers.
- Choose to say yes to new partnerships before you are forced to look for support.
- Once you understand what your marketplace is doing, respond with what your marketplace needs.
- When you can’t grow any further on your own, look for stakeholders that will connect you to something greater than its parts.
PureReinvention Podcast 055
For most people, a fresh start in the new year means making a change; which usually translates to doing more. This year, instead of adding something to your to-do list, we’re challenging you NOT to do something. Actually, we want you to make an entire list of not-to-do’s. Sounds kind of liberating, doesn’t it?
In this episode, Mike and Misty give you good reasons why you should make that not-to-do list, and offer up four more doable challenges to embrace a reinvention lifestyle this year.
Listen to our latest episode now.
P.S. After you listen to this episode, don't forget to share your reinvention mission with us.
QUOTE-IT MOMENTS
“When we don’t know, we don’t do.” (3:38)
“If you really think about what ‘enjoy the journey’ means, I think it gives you permission to be playful.” (12:50)
DIG IN
Around 7:42 Mike and Misty have a great discussion about the importance of reflecting on why you make certain choices.
Fast forward to 13:25 to hear a metaphor for establishing new patterns in a story about getting a coloring book for Christmas. (Any guesses on who got the coloring book?)
TAKEAWAYS
1 - It’s usually our own fear of the unknown is the biggest barrier preventing you from doing something.
2 - Make a not-to-do list to remind yourself to break free of old patterns. It’s much easier to stop doing something than to add another thing to do.
3 - Choose to be enthused to try something new.
4 - Look for the lessons.
5 - Examine why you say no and what you are saying yes to instead...and be honest about it!
Have you been getting these podcasts each week and thinking, “Ok, this sounds cool…but what else is there to this PureReinvention thing?” Our last podcast of the year answers the question – what the heck is next for PureReinvention?
QUOTE IT
“There are a number of people that are looking at each other and saying, ‘What’s really new out there? What can we bring to our staff…to our organization that’s new and fresh, that’s different and meaningful?’.” (2:10)
“If you’re looking for inspiration from the City of Detroit and how its lessons can be applied to your own journey and how to integrate those lessons learned at the street level with the opportunities you have – or want to have – at an executive level, these are the experiences that will change your career.” (5:30)
DIG IN
Tune in at 2:35 when we talk about Starters, the program focused on individual growth and development.
Reinvention Retreats is the answer to your question about what to do with your staff retreat budget that’s new and engaging and doesn’t suck. Listen at 6:40 to hear more about our plans for this new take on corporate retreats and/or team building.
At 8:05 Mike describes why all of the offerings you can get through PureReinvention in 2016 isn’t your standard “off the shelf programming.”
TAKEAWAYS
1 – The PureReinvention Team is gearing up for 2016 and there will be no new podcasts in December. We will return the first Monday in January.
2 – Look for two brand new products in 2016; one that focuses on personal growth and one that takes a new spin on the corporate retreat/team building getaway.
3 – We will grow the WE.INVENT collective by creating new cohorts and building on the one we started in October 2015.
4 – We are launching a new website in January 2016, and include blogs and Blabs as new ways to interact with you.
5 – Create time in your 2016 calendar for PureReinvention. Email hello@purereinvention.com to save your date before all the good time slots are gone.
If you are in need of a healthy dose of inspiration and motivation, give this podcast a listen straight away. Kate rejuvenates the change conversation with genuine advice and a contagious spirit for creative problem solving.
In Episode 053 Kate Snyder, owner and principal strategist at Piper & Gold Public Relations, personifies three of the Five Fundamentals of PureReinvention; Connect, Simplify and Move. Her approach to leading the communications committee at Impression 5 Science Center allows the group to be nimble and responsive. In this volunteer position she uses her passion for museums and professional knowledge to reimagine how a committee can achieve goals for its organization.
QUOTE IT
“If I can’t be all in then I’m going to politely decline being involved and I’ll save my time for something I’m passionate about.” (5:17)
“Know what you are, and what you aren’t is one of the things that has helped us be successful.” (12:40)
DIG IN
At 8:20 Kate diagnoses a one of the biggest barriers for many volunteer committees today and what to do about it.
Hear Kate describe how to build a committee diverse in thought and experience around 10:15 and listen for some creative ideas for identifying new volunteers.
TAKEAWAYS
1 – You have to be all in to truly understand the problem.
2 – Sometimes you have to “go dark” to refocus and build new momentum.
3 – Committees that are goal-driven are better positioned to help an organization move the needle in a positive direction.
4 – Connectivity takes root through conversation and clear communication.
5 – Committee work should simplify problems facing their organization and explore ways to move toward solutions.
One of the hardest parts about change is recognizing when you fall back on old habits. Get some tips on how to avoid the same old patterns and infuse your organization with fresh ideas in this podcast. In Episode 052, President of the Amway Hotel Corporation Rick Winn hits on some key strategies for maintaining a reinvention lifestyle. He draws on his experience as a current executive committee emeritus member at the Michigan Lodging and Tourism Association to talk about conducting a strategic plan on today’s terms and grooming young professionals for board roles and career growth.
QUOTE IT
“In order to transition anything…you need to think differently. Sometimes it’s good to bring in an objective view to offer a different way of thinking.” (6:22)
“The more information [young professionals] have, the more interested they can become.” (15:05)
DIG IN
At 9:15 Rick cautions against falling back into old ways after setting a new process into place.
Listen around the 13-minute mark as Rick describes what he believes are important characteristics that create growth and add a new dynamic within a board as well as in the corporate world.
TAKEAWAYS
1 – Map out where you want to go, plan 3-5 year objectives.
2 – Remain steadfast in working toward your goals.
3 – Build a culture where it is natural to challenge each other to not fall back into old patterns.
4 – Have an expectation that change is good.
5 – Groom future board members and build up young professionals in their career by giving them access to knowledge.
If you’re struggling with how to influence change at the board level, or how to develop a solid board/executive relationship, you do not want to miss this episode. Get your pen and paper ready, because you’ll want to jot down some takeaways of your own.
In Episode 051, Noah Smith, board president at Impression 5 Science Center and partner at Capitol Services, gets real about board leadership and interested engagement. He has some phenomenal insight about actively supporting the work of the executive director and how a board can be most effective during a time of dramatic change.
QUOTE IT
“Let’s stop talking about ‘wouldn’t it be great if’ and let’s just start doing some of that stuff.” (10:35)
“Once you get yourself out of trouble, then you have to move on to the next phase.” (18:15)
DIG IN
Listen around 7:55 to Noah explain why he thinks stability in leadership, particularly at the board level, is key during big change.
At 17:40 Noah debunks the myth that a board’s role is to rubber-stamp what the executive director puts in front of them and even offers the antidote for that type of sluggish board behavior.
TAKEAWAYS
1 – Continuity in leadership builds the bond between individuals and opens the door for “meaty” conversations.
2 – Board dreaming and board doing are two different things. Make sure both are happening.
3 – Engaged board members will actively listen, ask questions, set goals and make sure they are supporting the executive director to own the work.
4 – A good board is more than a gateway to good contacts, a good board is focused on developing new connections and ideas.
5 – Focus on how you can best support the efforts of the organization instead of using a board and committees to supplant the work.
PureReinvention Podcast 050
Today the Impression 5 Science Center in Lansing is recognized as a model for how to stay relevant and keep up with customers’ changing demands. But that wasn’t always the case.
In Episode 050, Erik Larson, executive director of Impression 5, talks about how he evolved from thinking the only way he or his organization could be successful was to “grind it out” to adopting a growth mindset that allowed him to strategically plan for where the organization should be in the future.
QUOTE IT
“We struggled with complacency. We got good at what we did, saw some good trends and kind of relaxed. And all of a sudden you lose your relevancy and you go into panic mode.” (4:50)
“If you’re paying attention and listening, and actually willing to hear critical feedback, you can start to build a pathway to reinvention.” (19:40)
DIG IN
Jump to 6:25 to hear Erik tell us why it was harder to reinvent the internal structure and processes he had in place than it was to reimagine Impression 5’s products and services.
At 13:40 Erik discusses his “monumental shift” in thinking that moved him from operating in survival mode to taking a strategic approach that has grown his business from just getting by to being a model for sustainable change.
TAKEAWAYS
1 – Be honest with yourself about what is working, what isn’t and what you need to let go of to move forward.
2 – Internal examination is challenging for many people, but necessary for reinvention.
3 – Create advocates out of your stakeholders.
4 – Trust gives you the space to take risks.
5 – During a major overhaul, it’s important to make sure you have stabilizing influences in place to keep you pointed in the direction you want to go.
Get an inside look at the conversation on the bus ride home from our first WE.INVENT road trip. And now a special message from the PureReinvention crew…
SERIOUSLY, DON’T MISS THE END!
If you don’t listen to any other part of this podcast, listen to the end starting around 22 minutes. All of the awesome women that took this trip with us tell you their best takeaway of the day – and it’s really cool.
QUOTE IT
“She made it very clear to stay informed…and be a life-long learner.” ~Amanda Toy, Greater Lansing Convention & Visitors Bureau (5:48)
“Even though you’re making plans and setting goals, you want to stay open to the changing environment [there’s a lot of good stuff that you should listen to in the middle here, then she makes this awesome comment] One thing I learned in motorcycle safety class is you go where you look.” ~Bonifer Ballard, Executive Director, Michigan Section, American Water Works Association (15:05)
DIG IN
Jump to 7:55 to hear Dru Mitchell, Clinton County Economic Alliance, give advice on working through your fears to make the next move.
Around 10:54 Julie Novak, Michigan State Medical Society, tells a story about why the question, “You’re a ghost driving a meat-coated skeleton made from stardust, what do you have to be scared of?” hit her so profoundly.
TAKEAWAYS
1 – Connecting through your network is important, but it’s ultimately up to you to get the job done.
2 – Make sure you’re saving bandwith for learning and keeping up with current trends.
3 – Thrive instead of survive by letting gratitude be stronger than fear.
4 – Be deliberate but flexible about what you do and where you are headed.
5 – You go where you look, and if you’re not looking, you’ll wipe out!
In this episode, Bonnifer Ballard, executive director of the Michigan Section of the American Water Works Association (AWWA) fills our cup with ideas on how adult learners are - and should be - critical consumers of professional development, what she thinks is meaningful educational content and where association deliverables are headed.
QUOTE IT
“I’m really interested in understanding how your worldview and your experience helps me understand my worldview and my experience better.” (7:58)
“One of the reasons that I follow PureReinvention is because it has forced me to start thinking differently about that association world.” (17:07)
DIG IN
Around 8:40 Bonnifer explains why she thinks storytelling is a powerful and effective method for adult learning.
Listen at 20:15 to find out why Bonnifer says it will be the bravest association leaders that will survive and how you can make sure you’re one of them.
TAKEAWAYS
1 - Quality development that builds you up to the next level in leadership and learning is worth the price of your time and money.
2 - As a learner, it is your responsibility to own the information you receive in order to turn it into something useful that you can apply in your world.
3 - Telling stories is a valuable way to share experience and knowledge, and the lessons are more likely to stick with the listener.
4 - Members are consumers, and their expectations for quality and meaning are rapidly evolving.
5 - The shifting concepts of association management require taking a different approach to the same services you’ve always offered, like member engagement and education.
In this show, Jodi Schafer, owner of HRM Services and co-founder of the PureReinvention Project, shares some amazing advice on how to make the jump from doing what's reliable and safe to what's untested and unknown.
Jodi tells personal stories and drops plenty of wisdom bombs that will have you rethinking what fulfillment really means and where you're headed next.
QUOTE IT
“Opportunities came along and I said yes even though I was scared.” (3:02)
“Sometimes you don’t realize you really were unsettled until you find yourself jumping toward something else.” (14:20)
DIG IN
Fast forward to about 8 minutes in to hear Mike ask Jodi for advice on how we can coach ourselves through the process when we take on something that we aren’t totally sure we can handle.
At 12:05 Jodi talks about fulfillment, and the feeling of searching for something more.
TAKEAWAYS
1 - Say yes to new opportunities and challenges even when you’re afraid or unsure of the outcome.
2 - If you find yourself still searching for something more, that means it’s time evaluate what’s next.
3 - Being unsettled is usually the first nudge to take a step toward change.
4 - Build an intimate network of support from those you trust the most. Those people will be the first to question the limits you’ve imposed on yourself and help you break free from them.
5 - It’s ok to change paths and go a different direction. When you stop being fulfilled by one thing, scan the horizon for something new that speaks to you.
There's no other way to say it: Detroit can give you first-hand experience and unforgettable lessons that will make you re-examine what you thought you knew - about the city, about reinvention, and about your every day experiences.
Jeanette Pierce, executive director of Detroit Experience Factory, has been letting the city be her teacher for more than a decade. In fact, she is living a reinvention lifestyle inspired by a place she has been familiar with since she was a kid.
There is so much to learn from Jeanette's story, like her approach to entrepreneurship and her passion for her work, we dare you to listen to this podcast and not be curious to learn more about what you can learn from the people, places and projects in Detroit.
QUOTE IT
“As much as I know about Detroit, I’m still learning stuff every day.” (7:05)
“We’ve had people come from all around the country to learn from the people, places and projects here - to see how we’ve (reinvented) outside the box...actually we’ve done it without a box at all.” (22:53)
DIG IN
Around 5:35 Jeanette talks about her experience growing up in Detroit and then returning after living abroad as a metaphor for discovering something new in a place where you thought you knew it all.
Jeanette has a really good description at 10:25 about why experiencing Detroit is something that “you can’t Google.”
Then at 18:35 she uses one of her beloved metaphors to illustrate how quickly change began springing up on the streets of Detroit, like popcorn.
TAKEAWAYS
1- Coming at an old idea in a new way (in Jeanette’s case, experiencing Detroit on foot) can give way to a new understanding of something you thought you understood.
2 - Adding realistic but firm deadlines helps motivate you to stay on track and keep working toward your goal.
3 - There is a difference between doing research and getting first-hand experience.
4 - Change usually takes on a popcorn effect; first it starts slow and steady, then begins popping faster and more sporadically.
5 - Detroit is a working laboratory for people who are curious about how to nurture a change-oriented environment with room to grow and do.
A collaborative team is a highly-functioning team. This is just one of the many wisdom-bombs you'll get in this episode from Elyse Kopietz, director of communications, marketing and events at the Michigan Manufacturers Association.
We sat down to talk to Elyse about developing an engaged team and how to give your staff the learning opportunities they want and need. She also has some really great things to say about PureReinvention's latest offering, WE.INVENT, an all-girls club designed to give women the space to find new reasons why.
Listen to the latest episode now.
QUOTE IT
“When you can build a culture that is open to change, open to people taking risks...that creates a great environment for pushing boundaries.” (9:50)
“When you work in a silo you’re limiting the opportunities for yourself.” (19:07)
DIG IN
Jump to 13:20 for Elyse’s useful ideas on how to maximize professional development for your staff and how that can translate to a greater ROI for your organization.
Listen to why Elyse says we are in a time where the customer likes to choose at 14:25 and what a personalized experience can do for an association.
Elyse offers some thoughts on women in the professional sphere around 21:30 and how PureReinvention’s all-girls club known as WE.INVENT is a platform for women to learn from each other through real talk about real experiences.
TAKEAWAYS
1- A culture that encourages risk-taking and vulnerability empowers staff to be active contributors.
2 - Leaders should try to fit the job to the talent they have while scanning the horizon for the next move.
3 - Engaged employees approach their work more creatively and are more willing to get the job done.
4 - Verbalize your thoughts - fresh input can shift the way you’re focusing on a problem and let in new solutions.
5 - Perform regular check-ups to make sure what you’re doing is providing value to yourself as an individual and for your team.
We all have different strengths and weaknesses. Your weaknesses stop being a disadvantage when you allow others to fill in where you fall short.
Cindy Bowen, general manager at Crowne Plaza Lansing West and board member for the Michigan Lodging and Tourism Association, believes diversity in experience and background helps create better outcomes.
BONUS MATERIAL! Cindy is also a member of PureReinvention’s Women Advisory Council, which has helped to create WE.INVENT. Around 19:15 Cindy talks about why she is a part of the council and gives you a preview of what’s planned for women interested in a reinvention lifestyle supported by other professional women. The first ever meet-up is Friday, October 23. Learn more.
QUOTE IT
“Now we feel our responsibility is to steward and shepherd the strategic plan and the vision..and hold each other accountable.” (10:43)
“In my early years, they talked about as a professional you need to identify your weakness and strengthen it. Now they say hire to your weakness and utilize your strengths.” (17:50)
DIG IN
At 8:15 Cindy tells a story from the board perspective about recognizing when it’s time for change and keeping a strategic focus.
Cindy is the incoming MLTA board chairman. Jump to 12:15 to hear her describe how she intends to take on the responsibility of keeping the momentum of the reinvention plan moving forward.
TAKEAWAYS
1- To stay relevant you have to make changes.
2 – Trust in the new space created by a different approach and reject the temptation to go down the old path just to get the job done.
3 – The board should act as keepers of the vision for change and guide the organization toward that vision.
4 – If you want a different outcome, connect people who have diverse experiences and backgrounds.
5 – Nurture your strengths, know your weaknesses and find other people that have different strengths to help you get your organization where you want it to go.
Continuous improvement is the number one way to stay relevant to your membership or client base. It doesn't matter how long you have operated under your current patterns, you always have the choice to make a change.
Steve Yencich, president and CEO of the Michigan Lodging and Tourism Association, has been practicing how to stay the course of continuous improvement to help lead his organization to new growth. He talks to Mike about what he has learned by going counterintuitive to old business patterns.
Listen to the latest episode now.
QUOTE IT
“This planning process really empowered [the board] to start to look from that 20, 30-thousand foot level.” (4:48)
“If we don’t create an experience compelling enough...they’ll go somewhere else.” (11:12)
DIG IN
At 3:25 Steve gives a first-hand account of why it’s so important for the executive director to own a reinvention plan from the start.
Mike and Steve start to talk about how a feedback loop drives new behavior to stay in continuous improvement mode around 16:45. Listen closely to Steve’s clever approach.
TAKEAWAYS
1- Write your own plan and be accountable to it, even when it means accepting responsibility for the failures.
2 - Guard against falling back into old behaviors on a day to day basis.
3 - Good leaders are partners in the change process with their board, staff and other key stakeholders.
4 - Be willing to make course changes as you get new feedback while you’re connecting your plan to your audience.
5 - There’s a hidden opportunity in pulling old goals and objectives out of the mothballs to reinvigorate your core purpose.
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| PureReinvention Podcast 042 We have an extra special episode for you this week! The PureReinvention team recorded a podcast to tell you about how this project was created and why we always make time to connect with each other and grow the PureReinvention concept. There's so much to listen for in this episode, pay attention to the fine points and where our story resonates with you. We hope you have as much fun listening to it as we did recording it! Don’t forget to drop us a line to tell us what you think after the show. |
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| QUOTE IT “Sometimes it’s just putting yourself in the way of the momentum to see how it pings off you and where it goes next.” (6:30) “Once we were able to understand the why for PureReinvention, we were able to share that why with the rest of the world.” (12:15) DIG IN At 7:55 Josh describes how the PureReinvention lifestyle has become second nature to him. Jodi talks about choosing significance over success at 12:35 and how that has played a major part in the continued collaboration of the team. Don’t cut off early, because at 18:23 Mike introduces what’s next for the PureReinvention project and Josh describes how you can connect directly with the team while gaining first-hand experience in sustainable, change-oriented leadership. TAKEAWAYS 1- Look for new ways to get in your own way especially when you feel like everything is going along as it should be. 2 - Decide whether you want success or significance, and what the difference between the two means to you. 3- If you hear - or are making - rumblings, make sure those rumblings collide with others that are experiencing similar waves of discontent. 4 - When you don’t know why or how you got to this point, pick your head up, look around and talk to other people. They are probably wondering the same thing. 5 - Don’t make every interaction all about business; the best discoveries are made when there is room to explore. |
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The greatest reinvention stories are personal. This episode captures a conversation about change, personal growth and the power of getting out of your own way with mid-Michigan FM radio personality Deb Hart.
What makes Deb's story so great is that it's relatable, and she has done the hard work of extracting the lessons from her experiences so that we can all learn from them.
QUOTE IT
“It’s helpful to not have a judgement about it until you allow yourself to experience it.” (6:54)
“It’s exhausting to own our strengths and weaknesses; either we can change it or accept it - make peace with it. ” (13:25)
“We have teachers around us every moment of every day. I can learn as much from the guy standing behind the counter at the gas station as I can from a CEO, and I think it’s a mistake to believe otherwise.” (19:24)
DIG IN
Right around 10 minutes in Mike asks Deb how she balances what is in her control and out of her control. Her answer couldn’t be more on point.
At 16:50 Deb tells a story about how she took on a challenge to do something completely out of the ordinary for her and it led to a lesson she’ll likely never forget.
TAKEAWAYS
1- Surround yourself with a wide variety of people and learn from them.
2 - The best first step you can take toward reinvention is to open yourself up to the realization that maybe what you are doing isn’t as effective as it could be.
3 - Be open to what’s next, even if you don’t know exactly what is the next step.
4 - Seek opportunities to grow, learn and shine.
5 - Many times the barriers you believe exist are self-imposed. Let them go.
6 - You have the responsibility to create your own meaningful journey.
In the second part of our interview with Patrick Bero, CEO/CFO of the Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority, we get a better look at the business and financial side of Cobo’s reinvention.
Patrick shared a really interesting tidbit about the market demand for Cobo’s bonds being three times higher than what was available while the City of Detroit was in bankruptcy. Surprising, right? That’s around the 19:25 mark - but don’t just scan ahead to that! There is so much more to this story.
QUOTE IT
“Long time customers tend to get taken for granted.” (3:55)
“If you embrace competition, that tends to keep you sharp. Organizations that try to shield themselves from competition are the ones that in the long run end up having more difficulty.” (20:57)
DIG IN
Patrick describes around the 5:00 mark how a shift in customer expectations pointed to an unsustainable business model.
At 14:55 we learn how Patrick helped transform Cobo’s headline risk into a reinvention story that allowed the DRCFA to meet the capital needs of doing business in an unconventional way.
TAKEAWAYS
1 -You can only cut back and reduce so much; instead commit your resources to things that will deliver a return.
2 - Establish a level of trust and transparency with your members/customers then demonstrate a commitment to those values every chance you get.
3 - An effective board offers fundamental principles and a strategic vision to enable staff to execute.
4 - Survey the market, and don’t forget to include the people who have taken their business elsewhere.
5 - Asking simple questions opens up the path to new solutions.
Detroit and Cobo Center may seem synonymous, but Cobo has a unique reinvention story all its own.
In this episode, Patrick Bero, CEO/CFO of the Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority gives us an interesting account of Cobo's reinvention starting with a major disruption in the belly of the economic decline.
Patrick has a lot to say about what happened after the reality set in that there was no way Cobo could keep doing business the same way and remain in existence.
QUOTE IT
“[Political leaders] knew that the city didn’t have the resources to do what was being asked of them. And this was going to require a broader solution.” (5:22)
“It all starts from a crisis point. We had to clear a lot of hurdles to get to this point. We had to earn a lot of trust.” (9:28)
“Are you really going to just change the cosmetics and throw a little paint on something or are you going to fundamentally change the way you live and work every day?” (15:55)
DIG IN
At 5:45 to hear Patrick give the back story on how the five entities that make up the DRCFA came together to do things differently and rally around Cobo’s comeback.
Around 15:20 Patrick describes their struggle with whether or not to rename Cobo and why they decided to stick with it even though they had an image problem.
TAKEAWAYS
1 - It takes courage and leadership to admit it’s time for a complete overhaul even when you don’t know exactly how to execute it.
2 - Make a commit to transparency to build the trust of your market despite the desire to dress up reality for a more pleasing picture.
3 - Empower employees to do their jobs well by giving them the training and experience they need.
4 - A unified decision making body that is fully invested in the outcome can drive big results.
5 - Don’t just tolerate something when you can take action by demanding higher expectations and change the outcome.
Bridget Russo took a big risk when she left New York to live in Detroit and devote herself to marketing Shinola's wristwatches, leather goods and bicycles that are assembled and sold in Midtown. But that's not the story she sat down with Mike to tell - although we think that would be a pretty interesting one! (Perhaps next time, Bridget?)
In this episode, Shinola's marketing director talks with us about why they couldn't resist making Detroit home base and how the company blends an authentic story with quality products to create a highly desirable brand.
Listen to the latest episode now.
QUOTE IT
“Everyone sort of said, you know what, it hasn’t been done before but let’s roll up our sleeves. What do you need us to do?” (3:34)
“There’s nothing wrong with embracing the past, but you have to look towards the future and be ready to change and be nimble.” (14:51)
DIG IN
Bridget explains why a strong story makes a brand more compelling to your consumer at 5:11.
Beginning at 18:30 she paints a terrific picture of creative connections linking automotive manufacturing to watch-making and the creation of a degree program in fashion accessory design.
TAKEAWAYS
1 - A great story will captivate your target market, but you have to follow through with a quality product.
2 - Embrace your history but don’t get stuck in it.
3 - Don’t just pile on products or services for the sake of adding; make sure what you’re offering provides a meaningful service that is useful to your consumer.
4 - Detroit’s creative space has an authenticity and resilience that is inspiring people, ideas and brands.
5 - A thriving, reinvention-driven culture has to be lived, not just talked about.
Part two of our conversation with entrepreneur, author and venture capitalist Josh Linkner goes deeper into his ideas on change and concepts for effectively staying on top of the reinvention process. In this episode, get useful change agent hacks and good tips on making your business unusual in the best way possible.
If you have a question for Josh, PureReinvention will be moderating a Twitter chat with him next Monday, August 10, from 10:30-11:30 am EST. Follow #DLab and #ASAE2015 to be part of the conversation!
QUOTE IT
“That’s why people come to Detroit, to drive their own great art.” (4:25)
“All of us need to take the responsibility of being change agents.” (11:51)
DIG IN
At 7:10 Josh talks more about his encourage courage philosophy.
Jump to the 14:15 mark to hear him explain why it’s necessary to confront your standard way of doing things and find ways to disrupt it.
TAKEAWAYS
1 - Be the source of change instead of the need for change.
2 - Hack your process - tackle old habitats in an unorthodox way.
3 - Conduct change experiments; use controls and measurements.
4 - Take small bets toward big change to gain accelerated growth.
5 - Regularly confront previously held beliefs to test for a new or improved approach.
6 - If you’re not seeking change, it will be thrust upon you.
Josh Linkner’s most recent New York Times best-selling book (he currently has two), The Road to Reinvention, explores the idea that one of the most common—and easily avoidable— reasons communities, organizations and individuals fall is because they fail to reinvent.
This episode is the first part of a two-part conversation that Mike Bills had with tech entrepreneur, venture capitalist, keynote speaker and Detroit native Josh Linkner. In this segment, Josh talks about the trouble with resting on prior successes rather than driving purposeful transformation and the grit of Detroit that has lessons for us all.
QUOTE IT
“People want to extract the lessons [of Detroit]...people say ‘how can I apply that to my life?’” (8:09)
“To be an effective leader today, that rote memorization, follow-the-rule-book is just completely inadequate. What we need today is to train people to be creative problem solvers.” (11:23)
“If we can encourage courage, recognize that if we want great big breakthrough ideas we have to have a lot of bad ideas along the way to get there. ” (18:35)
DIG IN
At 9:28 Josh describes why Detroit is a learning laboratory.
Josh says reinvention is a very misunderstood word. Hear his theory about what reinvention really means around the 14:00 mark.
TAKEAWAYS
1 - The Detroit story is a very human experience, and it connects to your heart and to your gut leaving a lasting impression.
2 - The largest natural resource in your organization is human imagination.
3 - Find new points of differentiation by using the information that everyone has and figuring out how to position your organization as a unique solution.
4 - Build a culture that supports creative risk-taking.
5 - Failure is a part of the process and should be learned from instead of punished.
The American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) Annual Meeting 2015 in Detroit is just three short weeks away. And we think the international audience that this event attracts is going to get more than they bargained for by coming to the City of Detroit.
In this episode, Mike Bills and Misty Miller highlight a conversation with Renee Lewis, CMP, about reinventing the conference experience and why Detroit is a destination like none other.
QUOTE IT
“As a meeting planner you’re always looking for what the best rates are for the organization, what’s the best space, do they have my dates available, but the other part of that is that your members experience the destination.” (6:02)
“I guess you could make some changes and say you’re reinventing, but at the same time you’re not always solving the issue.” (11:18)
DIG IN
Renee tells a story from her past at the 9:40 mark about redefining a conference experience by boldly questioning the organization's core offerings.
At 18:18 Renee sums up why this year’s ASAE Annual Meeting participants will learn something special that they can’t get anywhere else.
TAKEAWAYS
1 - Detroit as a destination is rapidly evolving to offer fresh, engaging and unique experiences beyond the breakout rooms and exhibit hall.
2 - Letting go of stale education models that no longer serve your core audience keeps your organization relevant and in-demand.
3 - Detroit’s comeback gives conference goers a first-hand look at how sustainable change can be applied in a fluid system.
4 - Look for barriers that seem immovable, and figure out how to redefine them to be an asset instead of a road block.
5 - The PureReinvention team can help meeting planners build one-of-a-kind content for their next meeting in Detroit based on the lessons of successful local business owners, organizations and individuals that are redefining and rebuilding the city in real time.
This is a unique time in association culture when there could be four or five generations working toward the same mission. Lacey Thompson, events manager at the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Lansing, is always looking for ways to build on the foundation of the yesterday while sprinkling in the technology and learning styles of today.
In this episode, Mike Bills and Lacey talk about how incorporating tech into the delivery of your communication and education systems helps members better relate and connect to their association.
QUOTE IT
“The internet has just always been around for us. If I need something, that’s where I go. [Millennials] are just trying to get members to...live off technology more.” (3:25)
“If you don’t know how to do something, you YouTube it!” (9:44)
“The personal touch is key, interact one-on-one with them and you find out stuff...you learn from them.” (15.39)
DIG IN
Jump to 8:37 to hear Lacey’s take on why there is still value in face-to-face meetings for Millennials and others who connect online first.
At 17:30 Lacy shares a great story about how she and her CEO Cindy Kosloski worked together to understand the needs of a member who was thinking about letting her membership lapse.
TAKEAWAYS
1 - Millennials are teaching older generations how to explore technology and use it to connect with members in new and different ways.
2 - Personalize everything you do. A thoughtful comment or gesture can go a long way.
3 - Sharing association news in efficient and friendly ways makes members feel more connected to association leadership. HBA of Greater Lansing uses their Information Minute videos to highlight association news in less than 60 seconds.
4 - Even when you connect on social media or through email, it doesn’t replace the need for face time.
5 - Blend old and new delivery methods for your education and content to keep members engaged while still remaining reliable.ted for the long haul.
Alignment between an association's Board and the CEO can be a very powerful thing. Cindy Kosloski, chief executive officer of the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Lansing & Jim Magnotta, HBA of Greater Lansing board president and founder of Magnotta Builders & Remodelers, have found the sweet spot between strategy and execution.
In this episode, Mike Bills gets to sit down with Cindy and Jim for a really interesting conversation about how they are working together to “tinker with tradition” and what they are learning along the way.
QUOTE IT
“Our members are very proud of our association and tradition is so important to a lot of them, to tinker with that is very hard for them to accept.” (7:50)
“Most executives are going to try to take actions that have a high probability of success. But that’s not what we’re going to do here with reinvention. You have to be ready to accept failure on a fairly regular basis.” (22:35)
DIG IN
At 10:50 Cindy and Jim talk about their experience with including board members in the reinvention process from the beginning.
Listen at 15:20 as Jim explains his plan for sustaining change long-term at the board level, and keep listening to get Cindy’s perspective on what that means for her in the CEO role.
TAKEAWAYS
1 - Reinvention requires a considerable amount of risk-taking. Not all of your ideas are going to be home runs. Be fearless anyway.
2 - Allow disruptions to be a learning opportunity, not a brick wall.
3 - Invite core decision makers to be owners early on in the process. They will more than likely offer different insight and be more committed for the long haul.
4 - Respect the traditions but look for creative ways to improve them. It’s possible to remain steadfast to your mission and still make change.
5 - Focus on what’s important and give that to your members or customers. A simple product or resource done well is better than an elaborate, confusing offering. looking for ways to make them better.
Even the most set-in-stone edifices can be reinvented. Just ask Thom Connors, Regional Vice President and General Manager SMG/Cobo Center. Thom sat down with Mike Bills to talk about Cobo Center’s five-year renovation project.
Thom shares really interesting details about the catalyst for change, some roadblocks along the way (like not getting a ballroom on the roof!) and how Cobo Center connects visitors and residents in a cool way.
QUOTE IT
“We just can’t replace what we have with the same thing.” (9:27)
“The transformation of Cobo mirrors the transformation of the City of Detroit.” (11:35)
“You will be successful when you have the right mix, mesh and mass of activity.” (22:03)
DIG IN
At 7:25 Thom talks about the major disruption that forced political leaders of the time to seek sustainable change for Cobo Center and how the plan was set in motion.
Mike asks Thom around the 15:20 mark to describe how ASAE 2015 participants can see and experience Cobo’s reinvention while they are attending the Annual Meeting.
Take Aways
1 - This is the second reinvention of the Cobo Center. The first one was in post World War 2. It was one of the first convention centers in the US and opened as Cobo Hall in 1960.
2 - Cobo Center is now run by a regional authority which is connecting state and regional governments as a unified governing body to run the center.
3 - This regional authority appointed SMG, a facility management company, to run Cobo Center and turn around the balance sheet. By 2025 they plan to break even as opposed to a 20 million annual deficit they encountered when they took over.
4 - Cobo Center has served as a major connector to downtown businesses.
5 - The new Cobo Center has been remodeled using an “adaptive reuse” strategy. They used what they had within the facility and updated it with new technology and a modern ballroom to meet changing needs.
6 - The new 120’ by 30’ video board will help connect activities in the Center to the surrounding area.
“If we’re not going to talk positively about Detroit, why would anyone else?”
Detroit Zoological Society’s chief operating officer, Gerry Van Acker, has been driving change by asking simple questions and really listening to the feedback he’s getting from various and diverse entities.
In this episode, Mike Bills taps into Gerry’s wisdom on how to break down a seemingly gigantic undertaking like helping reinvent a major city into realistic, executable tasks. As you listen, ask yourself how you can apply some of what the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Center have been doing to your own industry.
QUOTE IT
“When [Detroit] was struggling...it was pretty evident that the city needed to go through a process where they could hit the pause button and reset.” (3:15)
“A challenge in downtown Detroit [was] that there were individual assets in neighborhoods that were fantastic, but the connectivity wasn’t great...Now you’ll see connectivity.” (15:30)
DIG IN
Gerry makes an interesting point at 8:35 about the zoo as a gathering place. As you listen, consider how your organization connects people and serves as a gathering place. You may find inspiration in his story about collaborating with another major summer activity in Detroit instead of competing with it.
Gerry breaks down the zoo’s very simple core culture at 13:05, and his philosophy on why it’s important.
Stay tuned at 19:42 to hear Jerry’s message on why ASAE attendees will enjoy visiting Detroit and what they should be on the lookout for while they’re in the city that’s reinventing itself before their eyes.
TAKEAWAYS
1 - Simply asking your customers what they want is an effective way to improve your services and offerings.
2 - Cultural institutions and associations alike are undergoing changes that allow them to play an important role in providing an outlet for social engagement.
3 - Effectively incorporating multimedia and new technologies can enhance the user experience and improve customer interactions.
4 - Stick to the basics that you know you can do well, and look for opportunities to maximize that core.
5 - Finding ways to blend or leverage other established events can enhance value for all collaborators.
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| PureReinvention Podcast 030 How are you getting your needs met? How are you meeting the needs of others? That's just a little food for thought brought to you by this week's guest, Julie Novak, CEO of the Michigan State Medical Society. In this episode, Mike Bills talks with Julie about spanning generational gaps, decoding the need for change and how to keep it all moving in one direction. |
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| QUOTE IT "The changes in the world have caused a change in the need for a membership to connect to an organization.” (4:28) "It’s hard work, it’s scary, I have to get out of my boundaries all of the time, but that’s caused me to grow as a person.” (10:45) DIG IN Julie explains around 14:10 that one of her roles is to act as a translator. She interprets data and metrics in different ways so she can fully understand it first, then to illustrate to staff and other key stakeholders the need for fundamental change in the organization. Jump to 22:30 to hear Julie forecast how she will keep the momentum of change moving and what she thinks is an important asset for sustainable reinvention. TAKEAWAYS 1 - Reinvention is state of mind, not a finite process. 2 - An outside navigator makes you accountable for working through the hard questions instead of bypassing them. They also tend to have an impartial point of view that reminds you take the all-important helicopter view. 3 - Embrace the signals the association is giving you. Collect and apply data about your membership needs and translate it to actionable change. 4 - Be aware of the realities of your board members, as a volunteer body they aren’t immersed in the day-to-day work. High-level summaries and timely recaps help them stay focused and strategic. 5 - Reach out and talk to others. The majority of industries are undergoing tremendous shifts and it’s important to know you’re not alone. 6 - Be intentional about carving out down-time to reflect and recharge. It makes you a more effective leader! |
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Innovation begins with why. In his book, Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action, Simon Sinek says, “All organizations start with WHY, but only the great ones keep their WHY clear year after year.”
Aaron Wolowiec, founder and president of Event Garde, helps organizations keep their why clear and execute their why through innovative learning experiences.
QUOTE IT
"Often times associations think about the benefits they offer but don't dig deeper past the surface level to really understand what their root cause is; what they're meant to do." (3: 50)
"It's incumbent upon us to research, to read books, to attend programs and to develop as learning professionals so that we can further understanding within our own associations." (14:09)
DIG IN
Listen in around 6:00 as Aaron recalls the turning point when he realized focusing on logistics wasn't enough to make an outstanding learning experience for conference attendees.
Aaron shares his predictions for the future of face-face meetings at 15:25.
At 25:30 get a preview of an innovative learning and networking activity Aaron is helping plan that connects ASAE 2015 participants to the host city – Detroit – in a different way.
TAKEAWAYS
1 – Sticking to the traditional approach that you have inherited isn't going to serve today's conference attendees demand for an authentic experience.
2 – Associations and individuals have many options for learning and networking opportunities, effective models are different and unique.
3 – Intentionally creating a loose structure around networking time helps conference goers focus and get more out of the face-to-face meeting time.
4 – True learning happens when attendees can apply the information they get in a conference setting back in their offices.
5 – Whether it is designing an impactful conference experience, seeking more depth in networking opportunities or leading change within your organization, you will be more effective when you understand and start with the why.
PureReinvention Podcast Episode 028
Dan Gilmartin, executive director and CEO of the Michigan Municipal League, talks to Mike Bills about how the City of Detroit is creating a new, better reality and how organizations can do the same.
QUOTE IT:
“When it comes to innovation...we have a tendency to innovate when we’re in crisis, and we innovate at the edges of our own competencies.” (2:25)
“Detroit is beginning to embrace its grittiness, and embrace the fact that it is kind of the ultimate DIY city right now.” (10:25)
“Not everyone has to get into a Detroit situation before they change.” (11:43)
DIG IN:
At 11:10 Mike asks Dan how association leaders can give people permission to innovate and he offers some really good advice.
Listen in at 17:20 as Dan tells people visiting Detroit to “find the energy” and highlights some of the compelling grassroots movements that are happening in the city.
TAKEAWAYS:
1 - Detroit is more of a organic bottom up example of reinvention, not process and top down approach. This process is wholly transferable to other communities.
2 - Detroit’s struggle with changing times may be more public than others, but it is not unique. Many individuals and organizations are in the same spot and need to rally together to embrace the new.
3 - A crisis isn’t the only time to be seeking change. It’s okay to create a little chaos in the face of stability.
4 - Employees have to share the vision and own their part of it if in order to be successful.
5 - When you move out of your comfort zone and into different spaces, you think differently and bring something new to the table.
Spencer Johnson, President of Michigan Health and Hospital Association, shares his thoughts and wisdom with Mike Bills about continuous learning and keeping his finger on the pulse of the industry he serves.
QUOTE IT:
“There’s nothing that works as well as being out in the field and talking to your members.” (4:25)
“You have to be on your feet, you have to be alert. Change is constant.” (10:38)
“All of us are smarter than just one of us.”(24:35)
DIG IN:
Jump to 8:15 to hear Spencer elaborate on a quote about continuous improvement that guides him and his decision-making process.
At 16:00 Spencer breaks down what he believes are the three key groups in associations and why they are important.
TAKEAWAYS:
1 - Associations have a great deal of influence over public policy and advocate for their members and the industry they serve at state and federal levels.
2 - Associations have many ways to connect with members, but it’s worth going the extra mile to make face-to-face connections with them on their own turf.
3 - Earning the respect of those you lead as well as other leaders will help you build a positive reputation that you can leverage to make change.
4 - Foster a team attitude. Sometimes the assists are just important as the big plays.
5 - Don’t be distracted by endless process. Have a bias toward action.
PureReinvention Podcast Episode 026
Andi Osters, Social Media and Brand Coordinator at the Michigan High School Athletic Association, talks to Mike Bills and Misty Elliott about her decade of experience growing up in the association industry.
QUOTE IT:
“You’ve got to learn how to monitor first. You need to understand the history before you can make a change.” (6:52)
“I’m not sure association management is as clear of a profession as we need it to be to sustain what [associations] have right now.” (16:00)
DIG IN:
Around 13:00 Andi explains how being nimble and examining old processes frees up leaders and associations to find success.
Make sure you listen to Andi’s insight around 20:30, where she makes a thoughtful assessment of how residents in Detroit are taking risks to reinvent the city.
TAKEAWAYS
1 - Impactful leaders will help individuals grow by giving good direction and setting achievable goals that allow staff to take ownership.
2 - Eagerness to take on new projects and reinvent old processes is a good thing, but it’s wise to temper that ambition with careful assessment and monitoring before forging ahead.
3 - Stay nimble and aware of the current climate so you can adapt to serve the changing needs of your customers.
4 - Associations can learn from Detroit business owners and stakeholders that are taking risks because they believe in the city’s and the people’s ability to change.
5 - Be curious, even if it feels a little dangerous. It will help you discover unexpected things and, in Andi’s case, a delicious restaurant.
This is the most honest, personal and captivating episode we have to date. Amy Frankmann, Executive Director of the Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association talks to Mike Bills about her journey from questioning whether she was in the right line of work to becoming a leader her colleagues seek out for insight and problem solving.
QUOTE IT:
“[Creating space] is not about time, as I learned. It’s actually looking at everything in a different way. Like stepping outside the association’s front door and looking in.” (7:20)
“It’s about finding the opportunity, instead of going in and doing your job and not allowing the interaction with others [to happen].” (11:00)
“Every meeting I went to, even if it was for 5 minutes after the meeting with a leader I had identified...I would find somebody and talk to them. And I would come out of it with one great thing.” (12:10)
DIG IN:
At 9:10 Mike asks Amy how she was able to transition from being heavily involved in the day to day processes to stepping back and using her time differently. Her answer is the best advice any executive could have for how to create more connections.
Mike and Amy have an ‘aha’ moment around 17:00 about how the process sometimes inhibits the product. Keep listening as they talk about how barriers to growth and success are not in the marketplace.
TAKEAWAYS
1 - It doesn’t have to be lonely at the top! When you find the courage to share your difficulties and experiences with your peers, they are often empowered to admit similar things.
2 - Being exposed as not knowing it all is the number one fear executives talk about time and time again. But once you put it out there, you attract a network of people that want to connect, share ideas and work together to figure out the challenges you’re up against.
3 - Intentionally step outside of your day-to-day grind to get a different perspective on how you, your staff, and the organization are doing things. Where can you move pieces around to get a better outcome?
4 - Asking questions everywhere - in committee meetings, with staff, at lunch with a colleague - can move you from being overwhelmed and paralyzed to finding new and different approaches to the same challenges.
5 - Creating space for new opportunity does not have to be a significant time commitment. Assess how you are using the time you have and put yourself in the position to get fresh insight.
6 - As a leader, don’t be afraid of giving up a little control over staff output. Let them shine and excel and your products and services will shine and excel.
Stanford Smith, CEO of Pushing Social talks about leading the charge for Detroit Metro CVB’s social media efforts, with a keen focus on telling the real story of Detroit to a worldwide audience.
In this episode, Stan’s passion for the platform as a conversation tool is impossible to ignore. He also shares a lot of helpful tips on using social media effectively along the way.
QUOTE IT:
“Detroit is a city that shows tremendous resiliency, tremendous creativity, and I wanted to be part of telling the new story of the comeback city.” (4:50)
“All social media is doing is scaling the conversation and making it profitable.” (10:40)
DIG IN:
Around 5:45 Stan offers associations some really good social media advice. He says the competitive advantage is in how you’re telling the story about the future of your industry.
At 15:00 Stan explains his vision for showing the world why Detroit matters. Listen through 18:00 to hear him describe a social media methodology known as the hero’s journey that associations can put into play.
TAKEAWAYS
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The strategy behind social media is as old as the campfire. It’s all about good conversation and telling stories.
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Three key questions can guide your social media strategy. What is our story? Who is our audience? How do we tell it?
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Listening is just as important as posting on social media. Engage your followers and fans then listen and learn from their feedback.
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Keep your message simple. Stick to your story and passion.
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The social media strategy for #ASAE2015 will be to illustrate to outsiders why Detroit matters. The focus will be on the people and strengths of the City of Detroit.
Hello PureReinvention fans!
We can’t wait for you to listen to this episode. It's a very interesting conversation between Mike Bills and the president and CEO of the Clinton County Economic Alliance (CCEA), Dru Mitchell.
Mike and Dru talk about working together to dramatically alter the way the CCEA was doing business, how Mike’s role as a navigator was really important in defining their new direction, and Dru’s experience as an executive working with her board to move forward together.
QUOTE IT:
“I wanted [the board] to be exposed to the process using the five steps and how that can -- currently, and in the future -- be revisited to address how Clinton County Economic Alliance could be the solution to business-related issues in the county.” (3:45)
“Our plan now drives how I spend every day...and what activities my attention are directed to; it helps me focus. (8:00)
DIG IN:
Tune in around 8:50 to hear MIke ask Dru to describe the non-traditional way they approached the initial assessment phase and how the strategic report was prepared for the board.
At 13:00 Dru talks about how important it was for her to write and present the report to her board and key stakeholders.
Donna Inch, chairman and CEO of Ford Land and chairman of Detroit Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau talks with PureReinvention’s Mike Bills about Detroit’s comeback, aligning key leaders and executing a vision.
QUOTE IT:
“Go back to the basics, get the fundamentals right...and then build.” (2:40)
“If you don’t have that teamwork approach...if you can’t get that alignment, it just doesn’t happen.” (6:18)
DIG IN:
Jump to 9:45 to hear Donna expand on how city leadership recognized it was time for a change and how collaboration has led to incredible progress for Detroit.
At the 17:00 mark Donna has a message for ASAE annual meeting participants headed to Detroit in August.
TAKEAWAYS:
1 – Aligning key leaders creates tremendous momentum to execute your vision.
2 - Breaking down barriers to progress, especially antiquated cultural behaviors, paves the way for growth.
3 – Developing multiple attractions or assets for your audience establishes ongoing, sustainable growth.
4 –Generating excitement around your vision nurtures the ownership of key stakeholders.
5 – Incorporating rich history into your reinvention strategy builds credibility.
A navigator is an important part of the PureReinvention process because he or she provides the accountability to see the job through. This person not only actively keeps the process on track, but teaches you how to own the experience so it can be repeated for future success.
In this episode, Mike and Misty chat about the valuable role of the navigator and why good leaders know when it’s time to bring in outside help.
QUOTE IT:
“You spend enough time “figuring it out” you become resistant to other people helping you...Yet, the best leaders have the capacity to ask for help.” (1:48)
“You have to understand where you are today, where you want to be tomorrow and then figure out the navigation in between.” (9:05)
DIG IN:
Go to 3:30 to hear Mike talk about learning out loud. If you explain your idea to 10 people, do they understand it?
At 8:50 Misty describes the role of the navigator to bring informed experience, and knows that the navigator recognizes that the answer lies in the process.
TAKEAWAYS:
- The best leaders ask for help.
- There is more growth potential, and in turn more opportunity for success, when you bring in an outside perspective to help find solutions.
- A good navigator builds trust with key stakeholders and provides a safe place for any idea - good, bad or outrageous - to have full consideration.
- When you are looking for a navigator, look for someone with direct experience that can offer informed guidance.
- A navigator provides accountability and gives an objective approach to the reinvention process.
In this episode, Mike Bills interviews Mark Wallace, President and CEO of the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy. The Detroit riverfront has been key in the ongoing reinvention and revitalization of Detroit.
This interview tells the story of the Detroit Riverfront and how the Conservancy has played a big part in developing this significant city asset.
QUOTE IT:
“Every major city in the US was founded near a waterway...for (hundreds of) years the Detroit Riverfront was a place where industry happens and goods and services come and go. In the past ten or 11 years we’ve radically transformed that.” (3:17)
“We’ve provided a gathering space that’s really meaningful for our community...I think the other thing we’ve done in terms of moving the region forward is we’ve demonstrated leadership in public/private partnerships.” (14:00)
DIG IN:
Around 4:15 Mark elaborates on the process that lead individuals and organizations recognize it was time to repurpose the way residents and visitors were interacting with the Detroit River, and how the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy came to be.
Jump to the 10:00 mark and listen as Mark shares a story about a visiting executive that illustrates how remarkable the transformation of the riverfront has been.
TAKEAWAYS:
1 – Reinvention takes vision, time and persistence. The redevelopment of the Detroit Riverfront has been more than 11 years in the making.
2 - Even though something has served the same purpose for a long time, there are always ways to put it to new use. The Detroit River was primarily an industrial waterway for hundreds of years. Today, it’s a beautiful, useful space for visitors and residents to gather and experience the area in a new way.
3 – Reinventing one major component typically results in change to additional products or services. Since the redevelopment of the riverfront, many nearby businesses and neighborhoods have began to grow and change.
4 – Creating a meaningful gathering space draws diversity and new supporters. Now that the riverfront’s breathtaking views and modernized space can be enjoyed in a clean, safe environment more and more people are coming to enjoy it.
5 – Enlisting collaborators from multiple sources paves the way for an idea to develop into a tangible asset. The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy sought out public/private partnerships to maximize the growth and development of the riverfront as a shared asset for various stakeholders.
In this episode, Mike Bills and Misty Elliott of the PureReinvention Project discuss the final fundamental of PureReinvention – Move.
QUOTE IT:
“If we’re really measuring movement, it comes at the end of the process where we actually have a sale, an experience that’s been delivered.” (2:12)
“The really important part of harmonizing movement is in recognizing when one movement starts to ebb and we start to put new, emerging movement in place so we have a rhythm of movement.” (5:49)
DIG IN:
At the 1:10 mark Mike breaks down how the other four fundamentals of reinvention - disrupt, own, simplify, connect, move, are required pre-work in order to actualize your plan and move it forward.
Around 4:35 Mike and Misty talk about how most movements begin in a very fragile state until they find momentum through nurturing and risk-taking.
TAKEAWAYS:
1 - None of the pre-work is meaningful without ultimately putting the ideas into action.
2 - Measurement and data collection inform your movement and give you information to gauge your success and further direct your plan.
3 - Movement is the last part of the process because it is created through the sale, or the experiential delivery of your ideas.
4 - Talking about doing something, and taking steps toward doing something, is not the same as actually doing it. Movement is in the doing.
5 - Keep your expectations in check, and acknowledge - even celebrate - the times you move the ball in the right direction.
Associations today aren’t your grandpa’s association. They have changed and need to continue to change to carve out relevancy in the 21st century.
PureReinvention’s Mike Bills talks with Mike O’Callaghan, chief operating officer of the Detroit Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau, about his long-time experience as an association member and leader; what has changed and what remains the same.
QUOTE IT:
“The good old boys - if they don’t pay attention to what’s happening around them - are all of a sudden going to get lost.” (8:15)
“It comes down to some soul-searching and looking within, and really analyzing what is it that you provide? Why would someone want to get involved?” (17:20)
DIG IN:
This is such a great interview, there are a lot of interesting places to dig in. We’ve pulled out a few must-listens, but highly recommend finding the time to absorb this podcast from start to finish. During your drive to work, perhaps? Start with these:
At 7:30 Mike Bills asks O’Callaghan how he thinks associations need to change to remain relevant today. Then, around 12:50 they look at the value of diversity in associations as an intentional choice and compare it to how associations can learn from Detroit’s forced need to diversify to survive.
Later, O’Callaghan talks about how major industries in the City of Detroit - auto, entertainment, banking - are now learning to work together and help each other succeed. Jump to 18:20 to hear his thoughts on how associations can follow that example by co-mingling with other groups to identify new solutions for members and the organizations that serve them.
TAKEAWAYS:
1 - Association membership is a powerful tool for the development of an individual by connecting them to a greater body of institutional knowledge.
2 - Associations need to give people a good reason to get involved today - not hang its hat on what worked yesterday.
3 - Continually asking yourself and key stakeholders “What’s next?” moves your association from just surviving, to thriving.
4 - We need to move to more proactive thought in managing associations so that we can be better prepared for the next economic challenge.
5 - Choosing to engage with other groups before it becomes required for survival can bring new assets and perspectives to the process.
Next week: Mike and Misty talk about the fifth fundamental of PureReinvention - Move.
Produced by Will Carlson, WillPower Consulting
In this episode, Mike Bills and Misty Elliott of the PureReinvention Project talk about how the fourth fundamental - Connect - creates the space for innovation and thinking differently.
QUOTE IT:
“A lot of the answers to what associations and business were looking for were already inside, we just had to look at them in very different ways. It really wasn't about new stuff, it was about how to connect things in new and different ways.” (0:36)
“Connect can only be as good as an individual or association's ability to network new and different thoughts together and weave a whole other set of circumstances.” (4:42)
DIG IN:
At 1:53 Mike explains why connecting old ideas in new and different ways drives your core value forward.
Listen around 4:50 as Misty talks about how the connection phase starts to really feel like reinvention.
TAKEAWAYS:
1 - It’s not always about creating something new, it’s connecting your old ideas and behaviors in new and different ways.
2 - Ideas are just intelligent guesses until they are connected to your target audience to see if they can be actionable. Connecting your original ideas to the feedback will inform how you move forward.
3 - Intentionally seeking diversified thought makes your final product or service stronger.
4 - Connect is the most multi-layered phase of reinvention. This fundamental teaches that you need to be regularly connecting ideas, people, products and services in creative and unusual ways.
5 - The first three fundamentals - disrupt, own and simplify - stabilize the reinvention process so when you are ready to connect your discoveries to your realities you will become more aware of the changes taking place.
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| Detroit's comeback has been hard-fought and very public. The city's reinvention has great potential to serve as a real-time case study for other cities, businesses and organizations facing decline and a strong need to innovate. In this episode, Mike Bills interviews Mike O’Callaghan, chief operating officer of Detroit Metro CVB and Michigan Lodging and Tourism Association board member, about his observations on Detroit’s reinvention. |
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| QUOTE IT: “Fortunately now, there has been some excitement about the city and there’s reason to come back here.” (3:50) “The city was so heavily dependent on the auto industry. When things are good they’re great, and when things aren’t so good they’re really terrible.” (5:37) “At the end of the day it’s all about choice. Deep inside of us we know where we want to go, and in some cases it’s a matter of being brave enough to do it, because there’s always risk.” (15:50) DIG IN: Around 10:00 O’Callaghan talks about the opportunity in having diverse industries for the City of Detroit, much like associations, that allows for balance when one industry fails. At 16:20 the topic of PureReinvention’s fourth fundamental - Connect - comes up. Listen as O’Callaghan explains why connection is critical to Detroit’s past and future success. Keep listening through 20:45 to learn how that same fundamental is being applied in the design of the upcoming ASAE annual meeting happening in Detroit in August. TAKEAWAYS: 1 - Don't rely so much on just one thing. Like Detroit’s mistake of placing too much emphasis on the auto industry, associations need to step away from the outdated model of having one or two primary offerings for members. 2 - Adding diversity to your offerings provides a greater chance for success and creates possibilities where none have been identified before. 3 - Seek answers to your problems internally - within yourself and within your organization. It’s the people closest to the process that can help you find strengths and build upon them. 4 - Connecting ideas, needs and opportunity is necessary in any reinvention. For Detroit, connecting goods and services to other communities and industries has opened doors to a more comprehensive experience for visitors and residents alike. |
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Are you your own worst enemy when it comes to simplifying the process? Many people layer on new tactics and ideas to fix their problems when what they really need to do is simplify.
In this episode, Mike Bills and Misty Elliott discuss PureReinvention's third fundamental - Simplify.
QUOTE IT:
“There are so many options, so much you can add on to make things bigger, better, stronger, faster, that you forget to cut back and simplify... Most people think improving means adding another layer of paint.” (0:50)“When we’re trying to do everything for everybody, that’s an impossible task.” (5:33)
DIG IN:
Right in the beginning, around 1:38 Mike and Misty examine how thoughtful reduction helps you guide your unique value proposition.If you want to reinvent your organization, you have to walk the walk. At 9:25 listen to why building reinvention into your organization’s culture starts with behavior.
TAKEAWAYS:
1 - Simplifying allows you to discover real solutions by examining the core.2 - Applying thoughtful reduction to problem solving can help tear away the clutter to reveal your unique value proposition.
3 - A complex problem can be broken down into smaller, simpler elements to make the reinvention process more manageable.
4 - Effective leaders should have the endgame in mind, but still be able to simply communicate the task(s) at hand to get there.
Next Week: Mike O'Callahan, Chief Operating Officer, Metro Detroit Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Get a behind the scenes look at why one association decided it was time to reinvent and how they made it work. Guest: Dirk Milliman, Owner of Milliman Communications and member of the Michigan Press Association Board of Directors Co-hosts: Mike Bills, owner and CEO of MB Strategies, and PureReinvention founding member Misty Elliott DIG IN Near the beginning of the interview, around the 2:30 mark, Dirk describes how the composition of many boards today have shifted from a group of owners to a group of employees and why that changes the direction of the board. At 6:50 Dirk explains what disrupted Michigan Press Association and made the board recognize it was time to change course.
QUOTE IT
“{Board meetings] turn into a lot of brainstorming. Lots of good ideas. “Let’s do this, let’s do this.” They key is - who is the ‘let’s’?” (3:00)
“We certainly can’t do it the way we’ve been doing it. So let’s figure out a better way to do it.” (8:40)
“You can’t cut yourself to health. You have to grow.” (18:50)
“I think sometimes in our quest to solve problems we put too complicated a solution in place.” (25:49)
Main Take-Aways:
1 – “Purposeful” disruption – Disruption with ownership is vital in the reinvention process.
2 – Ownership changes the way a person makes decisions that affect the organization.
3 – Successful teams push each other and ask meaningful questions and view the problem from an owner’s perspective.
4 – We have to work hard to simplify every aspect of the process.
5 – The role of a third party navigator is very important to bring stakeholders together and to help the owners approach the problem from a different angle.
Next episode: February 23, 2015 – Mike Bills and Misty Elliott discuss the third pillar of PureReinvention - Simplify.
Produced by: Will Carlson, WillPower Consulting (www.williamrcarlson.com)
How do you take ownership of new projects? In our latest podcast, Mike Bills, owner and CEO of MB Strategies, and Misty Elliott, one of the founding members of the PureReinvention project, discuss the second foundation of PureReinvention – Ownership.
DIG IN At the 1:50 mark Mike explains how ownership builds accountability.
It’s normal to feel apprehensive when you’re taking ownership of a reinvention plan because of the unknowns. At 5:57Misty and Mike talk about working through reservations when you need to take ownership of something new or different.
QUOTE IT
“Owning disruption allows you to fully understand the problem.” (2:25)
“As we take ownership of the direction rather than ownership of a specific function we’re able to then accept what we know and we’re also willing to accept what we don’t know.” (7:39)
Main Take-Aways:
1 – Disruption without ownership is counterproductive.
2 – Taking ownership allows you to fully understand the problem or situation that needs changed.
3 – When you own the process, you become invested in finding a solution.
4 – There is a degree of risk in ownership that might be uncomfortable, but the discomfort is what pushes you toward reinvention.
Next episode: February 16, 2015, Mike Bills and Misty Elliott interview Dirk Milliman, Owner, Milliman Communications.
Produced by: Will Carlson, WillPower Consulting (www.williamrcarlson.com)
In this episode, Mike Bills, Owner and CEO of MB Strategies, and PureReinvention Founding Member, Misty Elliott interview Josh Lord, MBA, of Josh, Inc. and Director of Membership and Strategic Initiatives, Michigan Dental Association about disruption and the need for modern associations to respond to market demands.
DIG IN
“I think we really need to look at ourselves as a staff and as an organization and realize that we are likely too close to our own business to be able to solve this on our own and what we really need is a reinvention strategist.” (7:24)
QUOTE IT
“The bottom line is the great recession and the technological innovations of the early 2000’s have dramatically re-landscaped the environment that we’re in, and yet the ones that are leading our businesses right now, are adhering to paradigms that frankly no longer exist.” (5:35)
“I think typically when we talk reinvention, road blocks get put up because we think cost, expense, disruption, change - it’s all negative. What we fail to recognize is opportunity, collaboration, mutual benefit, and relationship development. There’s a lot to be said for collaborating not only with a consultant or and external resource, but with your competitors.” (17:34 )
Main Take-Aways:
1 – Big brands are defining the purchasing experience – And expectations of your target audiences. Improved customer service and access 24-7 is expected.
2 – Current association culture is not lining up with this experience and is in danger of being replaced by organizations that will meet these expectations.
3- Associations need to focus on the next 3-5 years. They need to align with new customer expectations quickly if they are to stay relevant.
4- Associations need to value and listen to the disrupters in their ranks so that they can make the necessary changes to meet these expectations.
5 – An external outside resource may be necessary to help the reinvention process along as staff and leadership can be too close to the issue.
Next episode: February 9, 2015, Mike Bills and Misty Elliott will discuss the 2nd Foundation of PureReinvention - Ownership
Produced by: Will Carlson, WillPower Consulting (www.williamrcarlson.com)
In this episode, Mike Bills, principal at MB Strategies and founder of the PureReinvention Project, discusses the first of five fundamentals of PureReinvention – Disruption.
DIG IN:
“As an association leader, do you really value disruption in the growth phase? Do you really value a disruptor?” (4:09)
QUOTE IT:
“In the association world, are we going to be disrupted, or are we going to start to create some sort of disruptive force?” (3:25)
“Before we can make any sort of relevant change inthe reinvetnion process, we first must value the role that disruption plays.” (4:43)
TAKEAWAYS:
1 –We are creatures of habit and like to keep things the same, but it’s important to realize that not all disruption is bad.
2 – Disruption with purpose is the opportunity you need to allow for the next growth phase.
3 – Boards tend to place a higher value on not creating disruption – preferring to get along rather than seek diversified thought.
4 – Many of us haven’t been trained in how to create, and manage, disruption, even though it is critical for new growth.
5 – The city of Detroit has been dramatically yet positively disrupted through its bankruptcy and the subsequent rebound it is now experiencing.
Next episode: February 2, 2015, Josh Lord, MBA, Director of Membership and Strategic Initiatives, Michigan Dental Association
Produced by WillPower Consulting (www.willliamrcarlson.com)
In this episode, Mike Bills, principal at MB Strategies and founder of the PureReinvention project, talks with Jim M. Nicholson (Vice-President, PVS Chemicals Inc.) about the current reinvention of Detroit, the value of others coming to Detroit to see reinvention in action, and what it will take to sustain the reinvention process going forward.
DIG IN
Around 4:11 Mike asks Jim about when Detroit stopped operating at peak performance. Jim says simply Detroit failed to work for its citizens, and they moved away. Listen to this segment and consider it through the lens of association work. What happens when associations stop operating at peak performance? Can you see how associations would benefit from using Detroit as an example when working through challenges?
Meaningful change happens beyond the core. Jim postulates that Detroit residents are going to continue to leave if leaders don’t build a better value proposition and support their quality of life. As you listen to this, think about how Detroit’s experience relates to membership within your association. How are association leaders building a better value proposition to retain members? (14:30)
QUOTE IT
“The challenges of the constant outflow of people...got enough people to say enough is enough.” (6:30)
“Political inertia kept [Detroit] from changing...But the political leaders of the time finally found the guts to say, ‘We need to make this change happen’ and they did. What it did for the community was change the paradigm.” (9:20)
“It is our role as leaders to try to create the conditions where people want to make investments.” (24:08)
TAKE AWAYS
1 – Reinvention requires a long term commitment. Detroit’s problems developed over many decades, and its comeback will likewise develop through the next decade. Expect the reinvention process to take time to become lasting change.
2 – It’s important to understand the measurements you use to define success. In the case of Detroit, people living and thriving in the neighborhoods are the ultimate measure of successful leadership. What defines success for you? For your association?
3 – Building the infrastructure to sustain your citizens is key. People living in Detroit, much like your members, will leave if they don’t feel like their needs are being addressed and served.
4 – Defining clear priorities is critical to creating momentum for reinvention. Don’t get caught up in the real estate at the expense of the vision.
5 – A realistic vision that is shared by consumers and stakeholders is a necessary ingredient for success. Leaders must be part of the community and have credibility with the people.
Next episode: January 26, 2015, Mike Bills discusses the first of the fundamental five concepts in the reinvention process: Disruption.
Produced by: Will Carlson, WillPower Consulting (www.williamrcarlson.com)
Are you wondering what this PureReinvention thing is all about? In this episode, Mike Bills, principal of MB Strategies and founder of the PureReinvention Project, offers some background on how PureReinvention got started and looks ahead to what you can expect in 2015.
QUOTE IT:
"We want to build this community of individuals who are using PureReinvention as a resource. A group of people who are willing to share and want to learn from each other." (1:07)
"While we may be saying today, "this is what we know," you have to remember we will learn new things tomorrow. That's the really cool part about PureReinvention, it's an ongoing, ever-changing very dynamic process." (4:42)
DIG IN:
How was PureReinvention created? At 5:48 Mike tells you how needs and insights from different industries collided to form a model for the reinvention process.
TAKEAWAYS:
1 – PureReinvention is about collaboration and sharing stories about the ongoing reinvention process.
2 – Look for the PureReinvention Position Paper by the end of the month. This paper will outline the fundamental five steps in the PureReinvention process and be available to you for free.
3- PureReinvention has many applications to different types of people:
• Board Members - PureReinvention requires active participation, ownership and leadership at the Board level. There is a difference in Board roles and their leadership in the responsibilities and execution of this process.
• CEO – Responsible for driving the process.
• Employees - Have a huge stake in the outcome and must have ownership in the process.
• Member/Owner – Are the beneficiaries of reinvention, and should have the most vested position of all. Input must be continuously sought from this group must express their needs to make the process work.
4 – Association chief staff executives (CSEs) will have the opportunity to engage in PureReinvention at the Michigan Society of Association Executives' ORGPRO conference in June. Plus, you can catch us in Detroit for the American Society of Association Executives Annual Meeting in August.
5 – Your input, comments and questions are what make PureReinvention possible! Connect with us and tell us know what you want to know about.
In this episode, Mike Bills, principal of MB Strategies and founder of the PureReinvention project, talks with Jim M. Nicholson, vice president of PVS Chemical, Inc. and former chairman of the Michigan Manufacturers Association, about the role of individuals on the board of directors, board leadership and association culture.
DIG IN:
At 6:50 Jim says the biggest barrier in associations today is cultural momentum. He talks about how legacy and history cause associations to struggle with change and what key leaders need to do to help turn that around.
QUOTE IT:
At 8:58 Jim identifies a behavioral example of cultural momentum getting in the way of success. “The formula for attracting membership for most associations has been the same for a long time. They typically have their membership recruiting strategies firmly planted in the 70s...What you don’t see enough of is getting out and being interpersonal with your membership.”
At 17:34 he explains how the board can support and nurture a more dynamic association culture. “The Board’s real role is to point out the obvious. If you point out the obvious, the CEO has to respond to the obvious.”
In a hurry? Click here to read the top takeaways from this podcast now.
Seasons greetings! Listen in for a special holiday message from Mike Bills, principal at MB Strategies and founder of the PureReinvention Project. Plus, look ahead at the opportunities for PureReinvention to make an impact in 2015.
TAKEAWAYS:
1- Beginning in January we will be airing a new podcast each week!
2- Plan on staying connected in 2015, because we have an exciting lineup that’s sure to raise questions, enlighten and intrigue you.
3- PureReinvention is going to take you inside Detroit’s “reinvention laboratory” and showcase some compelling stories of reinvention happening in the D right now.
4- Did you know that in August the American Society of Association Executives’ 2015 Annual Meeting is taking place in Detroit? PureReinvention is gearing up to be part of this huge gathering of association professionals, so keep listening throughout the year to learn more!
5 - Thank you for supporting the PureReinvention Project and following our podcast! Stay in touch via Facebook (facebook.com/purereinvention) and Twitter (@PureReinvention) where the conversation never stops.
Next episode: January 5, 2015, Jim M. Nicholson, Vice-President, PVS Chemical, Inc.
Produced by: Will Carlson, WillPower Consulting (www.williamrcarlson.com)
In this episode, Mike Bills, Owner and CEO of MB Strategies - (www.mbstrategiesllc.com) talks with Will Carlson, Owner of WillPower Consulting(www.williamrcarlson.com) about his over 20 years experience in trade associations and where he sees future opportunities. WillPower Consulting links technology to membership solutions. Will is a member of the Michigan Society of Association Executives Professional Development Committee and the recipient of the 2014 MSAE Director’s Gavel Award for promoting the strategic interests of the association.
Main Take-Aways:
1 - Trade Associations were traditionally the go-to resource for networking and connecting with vendors. That model has been under pressure by the emergence of the internet and social media.
2- Associations that do not respond to market needs can and will be replaced by private entities.
3- Associations still have opportunities with networking in new ways and in producing educational content.
4- Detroit is a unique opportunity for associations to use as a conference venue in order to connect with the “reinvention laboratory"
5- Continuing to provide and leverage relevant education will be the key to keeping associations vibrant going forward.
Categories: market relevance, reinvention, education, Detroit, reinvention laboratory, associations, conference venue
Next episode: Holiday Message from Mike Bills, Principal, MB Strategies.
Produced by: Will Carlson, WillPower Consulting (www.williamrcarlson.com)
In this episode, Mike Bills, principal at MB Strategiestalks with Jodi Schafer SPHR, Owner, General Partner - Human Resource Management Services about day-to-day leadership, employee satisfaction, and staying relevant to your customer base.
DIG IN: At 6:10 Jodi emphasizes that employees today are asking whether they trust where the leader is taking the organization, and what that means for employee loyalty. QUOTE IT:
At 14:15 she dives into the importance of understanding your unique value proposition,"The good companies -- the ones that are able to reinvent themselves and the services they offer and stay relevant -- are the ones whose reputation isn't necesarily tied to a specific service or product line. It's tied to how they do business and who they are at their very core." Go to PureReinvention's website for a more deatiled list of take aways!
In this episode, Mike Bills, Owner and CEO of MB Strategies - (www.mbstrategiesllc.com) talks with Mickey Hirten, President of the Board of Directors, Michigan Press Association (http://www.michiganpress.org/) about the role and responsibilities of the Board President in reinvention.
Main Take-Aways:
1 - The Board of Directors have a huge role in reinvention.
2- Use disruption as a positive to move the organization forward.
3- Ownership of the process must go beyond the operational level and extend to the political level.
4- The role of the president is to lead in accepting the role of ownership in the process at the Board level.
Next episode: December 1, 2014, Jodi Schafer, SPHR, Owner, General Partner - Human Resource Management Services.
In this episode, Mike Bills, Owner and CEO of MB Strategies - (www.mbstrategiesllc.com) talks with Mike MacLaren, Executive Director, Michigan Press Association (http://www.michiganpress.org) about the importance of disruption and changing the model of how executives work with their board of directors.
In this episode, Mike Bills, Owner and CEO of MB Strategies - (www.mbstrategiesllc.com) talks with Sonya Robinson, Coordinator, Bureau Services, Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau about the importance of listening and spending the time to understand the needs of your stakeholders.
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Diversity is the opportunity to create a unique combination of elements that no one can compete with.
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Its important to identify sources of passion when making initial assessments.
- Ownership is essential to starting the process.
Next episode: November 3rd, 2014, Mike MacLaren, Executive Director, Michigan Press Association
Produced by: Will Carlson, WillPower Consulting (www.williamrcarlson.com)
Pureinvention Podcast - Episode 1 (October 6, 2014)
Interview with Larry Alexander, President and CEO, Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau -(www.visitdetroit.com)
In this episode, host Mike Bills, owner and CEO of MB Strategies -(www.mbstrategiesllc.com), talks with Larry Alexander of the Detroit Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau about what the City of Detroit has done to position itself as the national leader in reinvention.
Main Take-Aways:
- The Bankruptcy process in Detroit signaled the bottom so that people knew it was the end of the backslide. It sent a signal that things are moving forward and up.
- Embracing diversity by behavior, not by words, allow an organization to take advantage of all of its unique contributions that we have historically not taken into account.
- Consensus through diversity rewrites the management books on how we create consensus leadership.
- The City of Detroit is teaching us new and innovative ways at approaching reinvention.
Next episode: October 20- Sonya Robinson, Coordinator, Bureau Services, Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau. Host Mike Bills talks with a key Detroit CVB staff member, Sonya Robinson about the importance of buy-in at all levels in the reinvention process.
Produced by: Will Carlson, Carlson Consulting (www.williamrcarlson.com)
A brief introduction to the Pure Reinvention Project by Mike Bills, Principal, MB Strategies.