What separates exceptional organizations from the rest? In this conversation with Jonathan Reynolds, founder of Titus Talent, Scott and Caitlin explore why finding the right people is the foundation of every legendary brand. Jonathan reveals why traditional recruiting methods often fail and shares his counterintuitive approach to attracting A-players. Through engaging stories and tactical insights, he explains why great candidates want roles that challenge them beyond their current skill set, and why clearly defining excellence matters more than crafting the perfect job description. Most compelling is Jonathan's "one interview question" that cuts through the noise and reveals the truth about candidates. Get ready for a fun ride that's just as entertaining as it is informative! ---------- Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanreynolds/ Check out Titus Talent : https://www.titustalent.com/ ---------- P.S.: If you're ready to take your learning to the next level, beyond what we can cover in this podcast, then Legendary Brands Academy was made with you in mind. The online program will show you exactly how to transform your brand into a game-changer in your industry. No more wishing things could be different -- no more theorizing without action -- no more saying "that's for other brands, but not for me." With Legendary Brands Academy, everything is designed for you to take action and see transformation in real-time. You'll learn the step-by-step systems you can begin to implement today. So if you're ready to see real change, real results, and real Raving Fans for your brand, then you can check out Legendary Brands Academy here: www.LegendaryBrandsAcademy.com (http://LegendaryBrandsAcademy.com) ---------- Sign up for our newsletter, and find more info on how we are building legendary brands at: www.SwozConsulting.com (http://www.SwozConsulting.com)  Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What if treating your people well wasn't at odds with driving high performance? In this powerful conversation with Howard Behar, former President of Starbucks International, Scott and Caitlin explore why servant leadership is fundamentally about performance, not just being nice. Howard reveals the three primary responsibilities of servant leaders, and why the first focus should always be on helping people grow as human beings. At Starbucks, he created a culture where mistreating people had greater consequences than missing financial targets. Through candid stories from scaling the company from 28 stores to 1000s of stores, Howard demonstrates how this people-first approach drove remarkable business success. Whether you're leading a team of two or two thousand, this conversation offers practical wisdom on creating human-centered leadership that drives both personal and organizational excellence. ---------- Connect with Howard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-behar-24ba274/ Check out Howard's Starbucks legacy: https://archive.starbucks.com/record/howard-behar Learn more about Howard: http://howardbehar.com/ ---------- P.S.: If you're ready to take your learning to the next level, beyond what we can cover in this podcast, then Legendary Brands Academy was made with you in mind. The online program will show you exactly how to transform your brand into a game-changer in your industry. No more wishing things could be different -- no more theorizing without action -- no more saying "that's for other brands, but not for me." With Legendary Brands Academy, everything is designed for you to take action and see transformation in real-time. You'll learn the step-by-step systems you can begin to implement today. So if you're ready to see real change, real results, and real Raving Fans for your brand, then you can check out Legendary Brands Academy here: www.LegendaryBrandsAcademy.com (http://LegendaryBrandsAcademy.com) ---------- Sign up for our newsletter, and find more info on how we are building legendary brands at: www.SwozConsulting.com (http://www.SwozConsulting.com)  Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What can we learn from someone who's generated over $21 billion in enterprise value through digital transformation? In this conversation with Ben Elmore, Scott and Caitlin explore the often-misunderstood world of bringing technology and people together. Ben shares why 70% of digital transformation efforts fail, and how his team achieves an 85% success rate instead. Through stories from his work with Under Armor and faith-based organizations, he reveals that technology is only 1/3 of the transformation equation (and why starting with tech often leads to disaster). Whether you're leading a digital initiative or simply trying to navigate a changing marketplace, this conversation offers practical wisdom on balancing technology with the human elements that make change stick. ---------- Connect with Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminelmore/ Check out Servant: https://www.servant.io/ Check out Intevity: https://www.intevity.com/ ---------- P.S.: If you're ready to take your learning to the next level, beyond what we can cover in this podcast, then Legendary Brands Academy was made with you in mind. The online program will show you exactly how to transform your brand into a game-changer in your industry. No more wishing things could be different -- no more theorizing without action -- no more saying "that's for other brands, but not for me." With Legendary Brands Academy, everything is designed for you to take action and see transformation in real-time. You'll learn the step-by-step systems you can begin to implement today. So if you're ready to see real change, real results, and real Raving Fans for your brand, then you can check out Legendary Brands Academy here: www.LegendaryBrandsAcademy.com (http://LegendaryBrandsAcademy.com) ---------- Sign up for our newsletter, and find more info on how we are building legendary brands at: www.SwozConsulting.com (http://www.SwozConsulting.com)  Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

After decades coaching thousands of executives across 21 countries, Jim Huling has experienced first-hand what separates thriving teams from those that merely survive. What if the most crucial element of team success -- in the real world -- isn't always what we expect it to be on paper? In this eye-opening conversation, Jim reveals to Scott and Caitlin the missing component he's consistently found to be the downfall of even the most operationally excellent teams. Through compelling stories and hard-won insights, Jim explains why "trust" isn't just a buzzword. It's the bedrock upon which excellence is built and sustained. For leaders tired of constantly fighting the same battles, this conversation offers a refreshing perspective on what truly matters. Are you ready to transform your leadership approach from one that merely hopes for excellence, to one that naturally inspires excellence? Buckle up, as Jim's wisdom could be a game-changer for you. ---------- Connect with Jim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimhuling/ ---------- P.S.: If you're ready to take your learning to the next level, beyond what we can cover in this podcast, then Legendary Brands Academy was made with you in mind. The online program will show you exactly how to transform your brand into a game-changer in your industry. No more wishing things could be different -- no more theorizing without action -- no more saying "that's for other brands, but not for me." With Legendary Brands Academy, everything is designed for you to take action and see transformation in real-time. You'll learn the step-by-step systems you can begin to implement today. So if you're ready to see real change, real results, and real Raving Fans for your brand, then you can check out Legendary Brands Academy here: www.LegendaryBrandsAcademy.com (http://LegendaryBrandsAcademy.com) ---------- Sign up for our newsletter, and find more info on how we are building legendary brands at: www.SwozConsulting.com (http://www.SwozConsulting.com)  Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What happens when you combine lightning-fast growth with unwavering quality standards? In this conversation with Grace Chadwick, COO of Crumbl Cookies, Scott and Caitlin explore how one of the fastest-growing food brands manages to maintain excellence while changing their entire menu weekly. Grace reveals the unexpected foundation of Crumbl's success: a tech-first approach that enables real-time communication, training, and customer feedback across thousands of locations. From their customized rating system to their innovative recruiting strategies, discover how Crumbl has turned the traditional food industry model upside down. Most importantly, learn why finding the right cultural fit has been key to Crumbl's extraordinary journey -- creating an environment where innovation thrives, and rapid change becomes a competitive advantage. ---------- Connect with Grace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracielachadwick/ ---------- P.S.: If you're ready to take your learning to the next level, beyond what we can cover in this podcast, then Legendary Brands Academy was made with you in mind. The online program will show you exactly how to transform your brand into a game-changer in your industry. No more wishing things could be different -- no more theorizing without action -- no more saying "that's for other brands, but not for me." With Legendary Brands Academy, everything is designed for you to take action and see transformation in real-time. You'll learn the step-by-step systems you can begin to implement today. So if you're ready to see real change, real results, and real Raving Fans for your brand, then you can check out Legendary Brands Academy here: www.LegendaryBrandsAcademy.com (http://LegendaryBrandsAcademy.com) ---------- Sign up for our newsletter, and find more info on how we are building legendary brands at: www.SwozConsulting.com (http://www.SwozConsulting.com)  Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What happens when you get direct advice from an industry pioneer? In this episode, Scott and Caitlin explore how valuable conversations with industry pioneers can transform your business approach. Caitlin shares insights from her recent meeting with Chuck Coonradt, the original "Godfather of Gamification," revealing his counterintuitive advice about explaining what you do to potential clients. Rather than leading with methodology, learn why focusing on the problems you solve creates deeper connections. Through this conversation, Scott and Caitlin demonstrate how meeting with legends isn't as intimidating as it seems -- it just requires the right approach. Discover practical strategies for making these connections, preparing effective questions, and extracting insights that can create significant shifts in your business strategy. ---------- P.S.: If you're ready to take your learning to the next level, beyond what we can cover in this podcast, then Legendary Brands Academy was made with you in mind. The online program will show you exactly how to transform your brand into a game-changer in your industry. No more wishing things could be different -- no more theorizing without action -- no more saying "that's for other brands, but not for me." With Legendary Brands Academy, everything is designed for you to take action and see transformation in real-time. You'll learn the step-by-step systems you can begin to implement today. So if you're ready to see real change, real results, and real Raving Fans for your brand, then you can check out Legendary Brands Academy here: www.LegendaryBrandsAcademy.com (http://LegendaryBrandsAcademy.com) ---------- Sign up for our newsletter, and find more info on how we are building legendary brands at: www.SwozConsulting.com (http://www.SwozConsulting.com)  Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

We've spent the past few weeks getting specific about The Three C's of Hiring -- and now it's time to put it all together. It's one thing to have all the knowledge and strategies, but what do you do when you encounter questions along the way? Scott and Caitlin wrap up this Mini-Series by detailing specific guardrails, pitfalls, and common questions you might encounter as you apply the Three C's to your hiring process. You'll learn: How to prevent hiring people that think and behave exactly like you (and why that's such a common pitfall!) How to use the Three-Legged Stool approach to evaluate what qualities can be wobbly versus rock solid When to say "no" to potential candidates (even when your optimistic side wants to say yes) Understanding realistic expectations for the hiring process, and how to troubleshoot challenges that arise With the Three C's of Hiring under your belt, and practical guardrails to keep your hiring process running smoothly, you're ready to go out there and hire your rockstar team! ---------- P.S.: If you're ready to take your learning to the next level, beyond what we can cover in this podcast, then Legendary Brands Academy was made with you in mind. The online program will show you exactly how to transform your brand into a game-changer in your industry. No more wishing things could be different -- no more theorizing without action -- no more saying "that's for other brands, but not for me." With Legendary Brands Academy, everything is designed for you to take action and see transformation in real-time. You'll learn the step-by-step systems you can begin to implement today. So if you're ready to see real change, real results, and real Raving Fans for your brand, then you can check out Legendary Brands Academy here: www.LegendaryBrandsAcademy.com (http://LegendaryBrandsAcademy.com) ---------- Sign up for our newsletter, and find more info on how we are building legendary brands at: www.SwozConsulting.com (http://www.SwozConsulting.com)  Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Last episode, Scott and Caitlin addressed the fundamentals of hiring for Competence. Now, it's time to enter troubleshooting mode. You might know the secrets of how to assess for Competence, but what do you do when real-world complications blur the lines? Through candid conversations and surprising revelations, they address critical questions like: Is it possible for someone to be too competent for a job? How do you not just hire competent employees, but also retain them? What if you work in a stereotypically "difficult" industry to find competent employees, like fast food? How do you create a "win" for everybody, while staying true to your company's core values? Scott and Caitlin close with a powerful perspective from Truett Cathy that perfectly frames the balance between valuing people and maintaining standards. ---------- P.S.: If you're ready to take your learning to the next level, beyond what we can cover in this podcast, then Legendary Brands Academy was made with you in mind. The online program will show you exactly how to transform your brand into a game-changer in your industry. No more wishing things could be different -- no more theorizing without action -- no more saying "that's for other brands, but not for me." With Legendary Brands Academy, everything is designed for you to take action and see transformation in real-time. You'll learn the step-by-step systems you can begin to implement today. So if you're ready to see real change, real results, and real Raving Fans for your brand, then you can check out Legendary Brands Academy here: www.LegendaryBrandsAcademy.com (http://LegendaryBrandsAcademy.com) ---------- Sign up for our newsletter, and find more info on how we are building legendary brands at: www.SwozConsulting.com (http://www.SwozConsulting.com)  Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

After exploring Character and Chemistry, we've reached the final 'C' of hiring: Competence. While it might seem like the most straightforward of the three to evaluate, Scott and Caitlin reveal why traditional interview approaches often lead to costly hiring mistakes. Rather than relying on standard behavioral questions or "going with your gut," they demonstrate how to turn interviews into genuine conversations that uncover true capabilities. And if you think reference checks are just a formality, their insights about maximizing these conversations might surprise you. From entry-level positions to executive roles, Scott and Caitlin provide a practical framework for evaluating competence that can be adapted to any organization's size and budget. These strategies will transform your approach to assessing candidates' real abilities. ---------- P.S.: If you're ready to take your learning to the next level, beyond what we can cover in this podcast, then Legendary Brands Academy was made with you in mind. The online program will show you exactly how to transform your brand into a game-changer in your industry. No more wishing things could be different -- no more theorizing without action -- no more saying "that's for other brands, but not for me." With Legendary Brands Academy, everything is designed for you to take action and see transformation in real-time. You'll learn the step-by-step systems you can begin to implement today. So if you're ready to see real change, real results, and real Raving Fans for your brand, then you can check out Legendary Brands Academy here: www.LegendaryBrandsAcademy.com (http://LegendaryBrandsAcademy.com) ---------- Sign up for our newsletter, and find more info on how we are building legendary brands at: www.SwozConsulting.com (http://www.SwozConsulting.com)  Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In the previous episode, Scott and Caitlin explored how to define Chemistry; now we're diving into the practical side of assessing it. Scott and Caitlin break down why initial interviews can be deceptively polished, and share tactics for uncovering authentic Chemistry during the hiring process. Through real stories of their own interviews, including Scott's own 17-interview journey, you'll learn how leading brands evaluate Chemistry at every level. You'll go beyond basic interview advice, and be given specific things to look for (like "conversational pickleball," as Scott and Caitlin coined it). With these practical insights, strategies, and metrics, you will be equipped with the tools necessary to make sure you new hires aren't just talented, but also a long-term great fit for your entire team. ---------- P.S.: If you're ready to take your learning to the next level, beyond what we can cover in this podcast, then Legendary Brands Academy was made with you in mind. The online program will show you exactly how to transform your brand into a game-changer in your industry. No more wishing things could be different -- no more theorizing without action -- no more saying "that's for other brands, but not for me." With Legendary Brands Academy, everything is designed for you to take action and see transformation in real-time. You'll learn the step-by-step systems you can begin to implement today. So if you're ready to see real change, real results, and real Raving Fans for your brand, then you can check out Legendary Brands Academy here: www.LegendaryBrandsAcademy.com (http://LegendaryBrandsAcademy.com) ---------- Sign up for our newsletter, and find more info on how we are building legendary brands at: www.SwozConsulting.com (http://www.SwozConsulting.com)  Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.