Twins Talk it Up Podcast

Episode 61: Building Successful Partnerships

As identical twins, we understand the value of harnessing our unique strengths and abilities to increase both exposure and opportunities for success. In today's fast-paced environment, a "do-it-alone" approach is not the best strategy for growth. Collaboration and strategic partnerships between complementary businesses are fundamental to improving business outcomes. We are pleased to have a thought leader who specializes in consulting businesses on building successful partnerships. Vincent Menzione is the Founder of Ultimate Partnerships and is the Host of the Ultimate Guide to Partnering podcast, where he spotlights leadership and partnership principles.
Vince shares with us what his principles are for building successful partnerships. His 8 Operating Principles to Successful Partnerships include: Growth Mindset, Shared vision, Extreme Commitment, Consistent communication, Maniacal focus, Shared vision, Brand elevation, Results-orientation and Agility. If you are wondering why Trust is not one of his principles, Vince makes the point that "trust is not one of them [principles], because trust is in all of them".
He also shares what he sees as some of the greatest points of failure in developing partnerships. These include: not having the right mindset, not having a strong communication strategy and a lack of clarity around mutual goals. There may be times when organizations need to fix or repair their strained or unbalanced partnership. They need to move from a "transaction relationship to a transparent one". Remember, that we are better together than to try and go it alone.
Vince believes that partnerships can be the key to organizations achieving their greatest results. Is it time for you to engage in building strategic partnerships? Is it time for you to strengthen and leverage your existing partnerships? Let's build successful partnerships.
For more information about Vince and Ultimate Partnerships, visit https://ultimateguidetopartnering.com/

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Episode 60: Core Values of Winning Organizations

What are your company’s values? Do you have a consistent way of communicating and reinforcing them? Core Values cannot just be words mounted on the walls of your organization; they must be lived behaviors.
We are pleased to have the CEO of Rachuba, Theresa Leatherbury join us to speak about what core values are why they are so important. Rachuba is a Real Estate Management and Construction firm located in Greater Baltimore. We ask Theresa how Rachuba developed their core values and what some of the potential mistakes organizations make when establishing their core values.
She strongly believes that an organization should embrace input from the entire organization and not simply put forth a set of core values using a top-down approach. Theresa speaks about empowering all Rachuba employees to uphold and exercise their core values. This applies to every level of interaction: vendors, subcontractors and even clients. We appreciate Theresa shedding light into how they cultivate and support their core values within the organization. Core values and company culture may need to be strategically reevaluated and refined to ensure they are reflective of the organization you are building.
Here are Rachuba's Core Values; and they happened to work around the spelling of their organization:
Respect
Achieve Excellence
Collaboration
Honor
Understanding
Build Relationships
Accountability
To learn more about Theresa and Rachuba, visit https://www.rachuba.com/
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Episode 59: Becoming An Agent of Change

What does it mean to be an agent of change? What does it take to be a champion of change? How do you find your passion and pursue it?
We are honored to have Gavriella Schuster join us to speak about how she became an agent of change and how her work is impacting the landscape of the technology industry. She is passionate about closing the gender gap by empowering women in technology and believes it will take intentional leadership to accomplish this. Gavriella served as a Channel Chief and Corporate Vice President at Microsoft and now builds her platform as a thought leader with consulting, training and serving on numerous Boards as an advocate for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. You are certain to be inspired by Gavriella and her passion for guiding businesses and leaders in developing a roadmap for true equity.
We have to be willing to take responsibility and ask the right questions. We have to be willing to listen to the voices and needs around us. Listening to Gariella will spur you to realize that you can also become an agent of change. This is a multipronged approach including an organizational shift in expectations and policies including the publishing of diversity figures and salary ranges (illustration the SHE index) as well as an increase of allyship.
Gariella speaks about her BeCOME framework and how we can become agents of change when we embrace four simple actions: Connect, Outreach, Mentor and Empower.
Connect: Connect within the community and with women in your network.
Outreach: Examine recruiting, hiring and supplier selection practices.
Mentor: Mentor and sponsor to close the gap as they learn from your experiences.
Empower: The most impactful thing you can do for another human being is to empower them and give them a voice - a seat at the table.
For more information about Gavriella and how you can BeCOME an Ally and agent of change, visit https://gavriellaschuster.com/
Here is a link to her TEDx talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/gavriella_schuster_become_an_ally_how_to_achieve_gender_equity
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Episode 58: Put the PR in Partnership Relationship

It has been said that image is everything. How an organization manages their image can lead to greater momentum and growth, or it can damage their reputation and increase the risk for great loss.
We are thrilled to have Jennifer McGinley, CEO of JLM Strategic Communications join the program. JLM Strategic Communications specializes in Media Relations, Community Outreach and Reputation Management. We ask Jennifer to share her thoughts as to when an organization should engage a Public Relations Firm. She shares that it is not a matter of "if" a crisis will happen, but rather a matter or "when" a crisis will happen. Preparation and media training are keys to a successful communications strategy.
Leaders need to be clear, consistent and authentic and remember that this needs to be the commitment for both external and internal communication. PR is an inside out approach, where the overall message is perfected first with your internal team and employees as they are your best advocates. They support your brand with word of mouth, social media and overall productivity. Jennifer also touches on how PR is focused on the relationship you have internally and the relationships you have externally with your target audience as well as influencers within the market. PR supports the overall strengthening of your brand while building credibility. PR helps with managing and communicating the who, what, when, where, why and how.
We really appreciate her direction for organizations to stay engaged with their audience. Her mindset is 'don't post and ghost'. Be consistent with your activity and message. Remember to put the PR in Partnership Relationship
For more information about Jennifer and JLM Strategic Communications, visit https://jlmstrategiccommunications.com/
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Episode 57: Coaching for the Gold

The Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan have just concluded and we were treated to incredible sports competitions by elite athletes from all around the world. These incredible Olympians have trained for most of their lives for these Golden opportunities. What do all of these participants of the games have in common? Whether it is a first time Olympian or a decorated veteran like Allyson Felix or Katie Ledecky, they all have coaches. Despite their skill set, talent and knowledge, they believe in and rely on coaching to help them improve and perform at their best.
If the top competitors and performers in the world believe in and benefit from coaching, why wouldn’t business leaders? We are thrilled to have our friend Shawn SommerKamp, an executive coach and the Founder of Motivationeer Christian Coaching join us to speak to this very point.
We ask Shawn to share about why high achieving business professionals would want to invest in coaching and how this partnership can help to remove blinders and barriers to success. You will appreciate his perspective of how coaching is meeting executives and leaders where 'they are' instead of injecting your own agenda. We address accountability, communication, finding the right coach and how organizations can create and support a culture of coaching.
For more information about Shawn and Motivationeer, visit https://www.motivationeer.com/
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Episode 56: Building a Super MSP

Vulnerabilities and cyber disruptions exist, but how concerned should you and your organization be? Every leader and company should be aware of what a breach can cause: a tarnished brand and reputation, data recovery and even an extreme financial loss. We are pleased to have the leaders and visionaries of Aegis Innovators join us to speak about their journey and the importance of protecting your organization.
Reza Palizban, Oscar Rodriguez, Ashok Patel & Eddie Bader provide a picture of cybersecurity trends and share about their commitment to the International Association of Microsoft Channel Partners (IAMCP). We ask the team about zero trust strategy and if organizations should invest in cyber insurance. You will hear how protecting your company is much like protecting your home. You must protect your house on several levels.
This team of leaders have incredible chemistry and are resolved to build an incredible organization – to build a super MSP. They bet their future on trusting in each other and on providing both education and solutions for complex IT issues.
For more information about these incredible leaders and Aegis Innovators, visit https://www.aegisinnovators.com/

Episode 55: Don’t Sell Blind

Are there any blind spots you should be aware of with your leadership or with your business? What has the pandemic exposed or provided as far as opportunities for even greater growth?
We are honored to have the CEO & President of Sandler Training, Dave Mattson join us to discuss the importance of being aware of what blind spots could exist and on the role of training for our sales teams. Sandler Training is a leading international training and consulting organization headquartered in Owings Mills, Maryland. There are now over 250 offices in 32 different countries, training over 31,000 professionals each year. He is also the author of several books including 2 Wall Street Journal & Amazon bestsellers.
We discuss the landscape of sales training and about his book, The Road To Excellence: 6 Leadership Strategies To Build a Bulletproof Business. Dave speaks to the landscape of sales and why it is so vital to have skilled sales leaders. We briefly touch on the DISC personal assessment tool and how this can improve communication and success with both prospects and clients. In case you are curious, Dave Mattson and Danny Brown are both DC and David Brown is a DI.
We ask Dave how leaders can fall prey to the 'Blind Spots Syndrome', where their businesses go off track. Dave speaks to what leaders can do to address 14 leadership oversights or what he calls 'blind spots'. We also discuss his '6 P's of the Excellence Process'. They include: Planning, Positions, People, Processes, Performetrics and Passion. After hearing this, we know you will not only pick up Dave's book, but that you will also recommit and invest in more training. You expect the best from your people and in return, they deserve your best.
We appreciate Dave sharing about the growth of Sandler Training Corporate and how he continues to take inventory and push for innovation. He has graciously agreed to come back to the program to speak more on sales training and about his latest book. To learn more about Dave Mattson and Sandler Training, visit www.sandler.com/dave-mattson/

Episode 54: NFL Hot Topics with Jim Trotter & Steve Wyche (Part 2)

Twins Talk it Up Episode 52: NFL Hot Topics with Jim Trotter & Steve Wyche (Part 2)
Part 2
We are honored to have Jim Trotter and Steve Wyche, sports journalists from the NFL Network join the program. Jim Trotter is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame selection committee and is currently the president of the Pro Football Writers of America. Steve Wyche also serves as a panelist on NFL program 'The Aftermath', and hosts various NFL Pro Football Hall of Fame specials. Jim and Steve are graduates of Howard University and are storytellers and influencers with incredible impact even beyond the world of sports. They also host the 'Huddle and Flow' podcast, where they present fantastic conversations with amazing guests and their producer Thomas Warren is of course a Howard Alum.
We pick up on the responsibility the media has and how their work needs to be grounded in truth. Even when looking for that story or angle, they have to be fair, accurate and consistent. We also talk about Naomi Osaka and the importance of mental health. They share about how the Health Pandemic has impacted their ability to access and connect with NFL players.
They are both unbelievable storytellers which is clearly reflected in their work with the Huddle and Flow podcast. We appreciate the respect and chemistry these two leaders have with each other. This is certain to be one of your favorite episodes to listen to.
Be sure to follow Jim Trotter & Steve Wyche and their Huddle and Flow podcast, https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nfl-huddle-and-flow/id1529372397?at=1l3vwYf

Episode 53: Leading a Campaign to rename the MVP

Twins talk it Up Episode 53: Leading a Campaign to rename the MVP
Each year, the Week of the Major League Baseball All-Star Game is kicked off by events leading up to the All-Star Game between the American League and National League. The week includes entertainment, an All-Star Futures game, a Celebrity softball game and the highly anticipated Home Run Derby. Perhaps what fans enjoy most are the stories that surround the game of baseball itself. We all look for those stories- stories that inspire and go beyond the game itself. One of the stories you may hear is one that surrounds the naming of the game's MVP. The Major League Baseball Most Valuable Player Award is annually given to one outstanding player in the American League and one in the National League.
In this episode, we are pleased to be joined by the great grandson of the legendary baseball player Josh Gibson. Sean Gibson is the Director of the Josh Gibson Foundation, an organization dedicated to providing academic and athletic programs for youths to discover and reach their potential. Sean is also leading a campaign to rename the MVP in honor of his great grandfather. His great grandfather like so many was denied an opportunity to play in the Major Leagues. Sean shares some of the incredible stories surrounding his great grandfather, the Negro Leagues and icons of the great game itself.
Word is that 3 names are being considered for this honor: Frank Robinson (only player to win the MVP for both Leagues), former Brooklyn Dodgers owner Branch Rickey (who signed Jackie Robinson) and Josh Gibson. It's uncertain when a decision will be made on the renaming of the MVP, but you can join the campaign, sign the petition and stay involved. Enjoy the All Star week and the amazing stories surrounding 'America's Pastime'.
To learn more about and support the Josh Gibson Memorial MVP Award Campaign and the Josh Gibson Foundation visit https://jg20mvp.com/ and https://www.joshgibson.org/

Episode 52: NFL Hot Topics with Jim Trotter & Steve Wyche (Part 1)

Twins talk it Up Episode 52: NFL Hot Topics with Jim Trotter & Steve Wyche (Part 1)
Part 1
We are honored to have Jim Trotter and Steve Wyche, sports journalists from the NFL Network join the program. Jim Trotter is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame selection committee and is currently the president of the Pro Football Writers of America. Steve Wyche also serves as a panelist on NFL program 'The Aftermath', and hosts various NFL Pro Football Hall of Fame specials. Jim and Steve are graduates of Howard University and are storytellers and influencers with incredible impact even beyond the world of sports. They also host the 'Huddle and Flow' podcast, where they present fantastic conversations with amazing guests and their producer Thomas Warren is of course a Howard Alum.
Steve and Jim share about their journey from attending Howard University to the NFL Network. We also learn about some of their more memorable Huddle and Flow interviews. This reflects their ability to bring in great guests and draw out amazing stories. We dive into hearing their thoughts about diversity in the NFL, including the hiring of coaches, Black quarterbacks and the executive leadership of the NFL franchises. We can focus on the number of minorities who are hired as head coaches, and yet not look at the diversity in ownership and senior leadership.
We also discuss the role of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and how leaders like Deion Sanders and Eddie George can bring more visibility and focus to HBCU programs. The health pandemic affected certainly impacted the talent from the FCS being drafted. We talk about narratives around players from NFL franchises who position themselves and draft boards for their targeted players. In addition, the media also has a role in what stories are presented.
Be sure to follow Jim Trotter & Steve Wyche and their Huddle and Flow podcast, https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nfl-huddle-and-flow/id1529372397?at=1l3vwYf