LEARN Podcast

Hosted by WorkRamp

BusinessInterviews guests

Website RSS feed

Episodes

Latest episode

Aug 2024

Language

EN-US

About the show

To be unstoppable, you’ve got to go through some learnings along the way. Leaders have experienced many ups and downs: this is your chance to learn from them. Join WorkRamp’s CEO & Co-founder, Ted Blosser, as he gets candid with guests on their successful (and some not-so-successful) stories on leadership, culture, operations, and everything in between. We promise, LEARN podcast isn’t your typical corporate learning podcast.

Listen to episodes

39 recent

June 13, 2024Episode 3810 min

Season 1 Wrap: My 7 Big Learnings from Starting a Corporate Podcast (Ep. 38)

As we wrap up our inaugural season, we’re diving deep into what it takes to create and sustain a compelling corporate podcast. From unexpected challenges to surprising benefits, here are the top takeaways for aspiring podcasters.In this episode of LEARN, Ted outlines seven key learnings from producing 37 episodes, discusses the nuanced balance between relationship-building and lead generation, and shares invaluable advice for setting realistic expectations for corporate podcasts. Whether you’re contemplating starting a podcast or looking to refine your current strategy, this season wrap-up is a must-listen.Key takeaways:- Be prepared for the significant time investment required for running a corporate podcast, as each episode can take around 5 hours from preparation to promotion- Avoid using a podcast as a direct lead generation tool, focusing instead on building genuine relationships with guests, partners, and industry leaders- Adapt and experiment with your podcast format and content to discover what resonates most with your audience, while remaining consistent in your effortsTune in to explore Ted’s top takeaways he learned from starting a podcast.Resources:- Ted Blosser: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tedblosser/- WorkRamp: https://www.linkedin.com/company/workrampEpisode highlights:[05:54] Build great relationships through podcasting, be realistic[06:56] Building brand, niche audience, and set realistic podcast goals[10:20] Expressing gratitude

May 30, 2024Episode 3732 min

Transparency, Trust, and Transition with Kathleen Pacini, CPO, Patreon (Ep. 37)

As organizations navigate the complexities of modern work environments, fostering continuous learning, transparent communication, and meaningful employee support becomes paramount."Learning shouldn't be a one-off event. It's about integrating ongoing education into the fabric of everyday work," says [Kathleen Pacini](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleen-pacini-phr-b115986/), Chief People Officer at [Patreon](https://www.patreon.com/).In this episode of LEARN, Kathleen delves into the limitations of one-time training solutions, the pressing need for ongoing learning, and her journey from accounting to HR. She shares insights into how Patreon motivates its workforce with learning stipends, the critical role of revamping onboarding processes, and maintaining transparency during uncertain times.Key takeaways:- Align your career path with your natural inclinations and strengths- HR and People teams need to build lasting relationships with employees beyond just solving problems or managing benefits- Continuous learning and development are key for employee growth and should be embedded in the day-to-day workTune in to explore how continuous development and a supportive workplace culture are vital for organizational success.Resources:- Kathleen Pacini: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleen-pacini-phr-b115986/- Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/- Ted Blosser: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tedblosser/- WorkRamp: https://www.linkedin.com/company/workrampEpisode highlights:[04:25] Kathleen pivoted to HR after layoffs.[06:44] Kathleen worked in various roles at Frontier telecom[10:38] Understanding business is key to being effective[14:40] Be honest with employees and share available information[17:42] HR leaders need support during tough times[22:33] Encourage ongoing learning and incorporate it daily[24:42] Onboarding is pivotal for successful transition and productivity[27:43] Embrace curiosity and go beyond the job description

May 9, 2024Episode 3629 min

Live from HR Transform: 13 Years Navigating Tough Markets with Becky Cantieri, CPO, SurveyMonkey (Ep. 36)

Transitioning from a private to a public company comes with its fair share of challenges. And during this transition, it’s key to prioritize leadership and learning initiatives."Transitioning from a private to a public company required a significant shift in our operational approach. It’s crucial to regularly seek guidance from legal counsel and experienced CHRO peers to navigate this complex process smoothly,” says Becky Cantieri, CPO of SurveyMonkey.In this episode of LEARN, Becky shares insights on transitioning from a private to a public company, navigating growth, learning initiatives at SurveyMonkey, integrating knowledge from internal leaders and external experts, and more.Key takeaways:- To foster a successful transition from private to public environments, you must seek experienced guidance from both legal counsels and CHRO peers- Implement internal leadership training and external expert sessions to enhance business acumen and practical skills among employees- Align your strategic agendas closely with the evolving needs of the business, ensuring adaptability and responsiveness to external challenges and internal goalsTune in on your favorite podcast app as we explore navigating leadership and learning initiatives within a corporate environment.Resources:- Becky Cantieri: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-cantieri-85654a/- SurveyMonkey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/mp/take-a-tour/?utm_source=socialteam- Ted Blosser: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tedblosser/- WorkRamp: https://www.linkedin.com/company/workrampEpisode highlights:[08:16] Operating privately allows transparency and long-term thinking[09:49] Transitioning to a public company requires legal expertise[12:52] Focus on business acumen, leadership, and data[17:21] Align your agenda with the business needs[21:08] Embraced challenges, growth with great team loyalty[27:00] Enjoy teamwork and self-care for balance

April 24, 2024Episode 3434 min

The Future of HR: Data-Driven Empathy and Trust with Neervi Patel, CPO, Faire (Ep. 35)

As the workforce is consistently evolving, it’s critical to keep employees top of mind: cultivating a workplace that fosters intentional inclusivity, talent development, and active problem-solving.And the number one way to do this is through data."Data is a powerful tool for any HR department. It allows us to see beyond the surface and understand the heartbeats of our organizations. By using this data, we can make informed, empathetic decisions that resonate with our employees,” says [Neervi Patel](https://www.linkedin.com/in/neervi/), Chief People Officer at [Faire](https://www.faire.com/).In this episode of LEARN, Neervi discusses the future of HR through embracing empathy and leveraging deep data insights for a holistic employee experience, the importance of continuous learning and growth, and the power behind a hybrid workforce.**Key takeaways:**Embrace a data-informed approach in HR to tailor policies and practices to the company's unique needsFoster an inclusive and intentional workplace by prioritizing individual employee well-being and leveraging a hybrid organizational structureContinuously pursue personal growth and career development by learning from a variety of sourcesTune in on your favorite podcast app as we explore how the future of HR can vastly improve the workplace.**Resources:**Neervi Patel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neervi/Faire: https://www.faire.com/Ted Blosser: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tedblosser/WorkRamp: https://www.linkedin.com/company/workramp**Episode highlights:**[09:18] The power of strategic thinking[15:36] Invest in learning cloud platform services[20:39] Unique approaches for specific organizational needs[24:22] Flexible office hubs prioritizing employee preferences[27:49] Treat employees well, value humanity, and build connections[30:36] Use data for employee insights[32:42] Learn from everyone to elevate your trajectory

April 11, 2024Episode 3438 min

Why You Must Move Fast or Not at All with Jeetu Patel, EVP & GM, Cisco (Ep. 34)

Technology is constantly evolving; organizations must embrace new tools or risk being left behind.As a business, it’s critical to stay ahead of the game and adapt to the mega trends happening around us.“You have to keep reminding your company that you're running out of time because we're all against the race of time when it comes to technology. And if you can't move fast, then you might as well not move at all,” says [Jeetu Patel](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeetupatel/), EVP and GM of [Cisco (https://www.cisco.com/).In this episode of LEARN, Jeetu shares the importance of creating global opportunities and how virtual interactions are reshaping our ability to work effectively, the mega trends shaking the tech industry, and powerful insights on cybersecurity.**Key takeaways:**- Embrace the hybrid work model by optimizing communication strategies to combine virtual and in-person interactions effectively- Leverage AI and spatial computing by investing in these technologies to stay ahead in the evolving landscape- Prioritize speed in business operations and adopt an approach that favors rapid iteration and data-informed decision-makingTune in on your favorite podcast app as we explore the intersection of technology, collaboration, and security in today’s workforce.**Resources:**- Jeetu Patel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeetupatel/- Cisco: https://www.cisco.com/- AMP It Up by Frank Slootman: https://www.amazon.com/Amp-Unlocking-Hypergrowth-Expectations-Intensity/dp/1119836115- Ted Blosser: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tedblosser/- WorkRamp: https://www.linkedin.com/company/workramp**Episode highlights:**[07:14] Embrace megatrends rather than resisting them[14:10] AI regulation is crucial for societal progress[23:21] The future of work is hybrid and remote[28:55] Add in-person interactions into your remote work[33:44] AI and spatial computing have transformative potential[37:31] Maintain high intensity to beat the clock

March 28, 2024Episode 3328 min

Live from HR Transform: Why You’re Underestimating Employee Performance with Melanie Naranjo, VP of People, Ethena (Ep. 33)

The role of HR is rapidly evolving… and it’s no joke.It can be a struggle to figure out the right steps to take, but that’s why Melanie is here.To give you a how-to playbook on what to do to be a successful HR professional."I think we're in this really precarious period right now where HR managers are really being told to be super prescriptive... What we need to see more of is equipping HR managers with the tools they need to succeed, but not telling them how to do it,” says [Melanie Naranjo](https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-naranjo/), VP of People at [Ethena](https://www.goethena.com/).In this episode of LEARN, Melanie shares with us the challenges that HR professionals face today, the importance of equipping managers with the right tools for performance management, and how to navigate the tough conversations around accountability and organizational culture.Key takeaways:- Being an influencer on LinkedIn requires actively listening to and understanding the challenges and experiences of your own employees- Building empathy and remaining neutral when employees voice their concerns is key to genuine leadership development- Actively listening and learning from employee experiences leads to better Compliance trainingTune in on your favorite podcast app as we offer guidance and resources for HR professionals to thrive in the changing landscape.Resources:- Melanie Naranjo: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-naranjo/- Ethena: https://www.goethena.com/- Ted Blosser: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tedblosser/- WorkRamp: https://www.linkedin.com/company/workramp

March 14, 2024Episode 3220 min

[Recorded from Vision Pro] Our 5 biggest learnings from building a compound startup at WorkRamp (Ep. 32)

Especially when you’re constantly striving to improve and innovate.Thats why we are here. To give you valuable tips on exactly how to do it.“You need to do the research and you should do this research yourself. Don't outsource the research when you're looking at the next big products to build for your compound startup,” says Ted Blosser, CEO and co-founder of WorkRamp.In this episode of LEARN, Ted shares the five biggest learnings from building a compound startup. From the importance of doing thorough research and nailing timing to setting up internal teams for success and achieving product market fit, Ted dives into valuable insights based on his own experiences at WorkRamp.Key takeaways:- Personally engage in in-depth research when considering new product ideas for your company to understand the opportunities and challenges- Assess whether the market is ready for the product and if the customer base is conditioned and prepared to adopt it for ultimate success- When building a compound startup with multiple products, set up dedicated teams for each product to ensure success.Check out this episode on your favorite podcast app as we explore the cutting-edge concept of a compound startup and how it's shaping the future of work and learning.Resources:- Vision Pro: https://www.apple.com/apple-vision-pro/- Ted Blosser: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tedblosser/- WorkRamp: https://www.linkedin.com/company/workramp

February 22, 2024Episode 3120 min

LIVE From LEARN Summit: Building a Customer-Centric Culture with Aaron Levie, CEO of Box (Ep. 31)

When you master company culture, you master company growth.Culture is key. And the majority of companies are so focused on success that they forget about cultivating a strong, healthy work environment. What they don’t realize is, if a strong culture is implemented, they’ll see more growth and success than ever before."Set up a company with a strong culture of dedicated, hardworking, highly collaborative, and high-execution individuals. Organize it around ‘how do we work well together? How do we create a safe enough environment where people can be themselves, where they can bring their best selves to work and bring their best ideas?’" Says Aaron Levie, CEO of Box.In this episode of LEARN, Aaron covers various aspects of building a successful company, including fostering a strong company culture, managing executive teams, and maximizing the potential of employees and customers.Key takeaways:- Create a strong company culture where employees can bring their best selves to work and contribute their best ideas- Align talent with the company's trajectory and cultivate an environment where diverse talents contribute to the team's overall effectiveness for greater results- Orient the entire organization around the goal of making customers wildly successful with the company's product or serviceCheck out this episode on your favorite podcast app to understand what your company can gain from developing a strong culture.Resources:- Aaron Levie- Box- Ted Blosser- WorkRampBook Recommendations:- High Output Management by Andrew S. Grove

February 8, 2024Episode 3033 min

The Remote Work Revolution with Tony Jamous, CEO and Founder of Oyster (Ep. 30)

Remote work is not a trend but a necessity for the future economy. With a staggering number of jobs going unfilled in the West and a massive influx of knowledge workers from emerging economies, it's obvious that embracing a global talent pool is essential. Remote work breaks down barriers, offering companies access to diverse skills and individuals the freedom to contribute from anywhere. “I 100% believe that the future of work is remote and distributed. First, there are macroeconomic forces that we cannot fight. Eighty-five million jobs are going unfulfilled in the West, according to BCG. That's an 8.5 trillion economic loss, around 10 percent of the world economy,” says Tony Jamous, CEO and Founder of Oyster.In this episode of LEARN, Tony explains why modern companies should seriously consider shifting to remote work to continue operating successfully. He also discusses managing and hiring employees from around the world remotely and determining proper compensation through AI.Key takeaways:- Taking care of yourself as a leader allows you to take care of your team better- Working remotely can benefit the health of employees and the environment- Understanding how to manage the mental health effects of remote work is key to sustainable leadershipCheck out this episode on your favorite podcast app to understand what your company can gain from going remote.Resources:- Tony Jamous- Oyster- Ted Blosser- WorkRampBook Recommendations:- Leadership and Self Deception by The Arbinger Institute

January 25, 2024Episode 2929 min

The Art of Data-Driven Decision Making with Shuo Wang, Co-Founder & CRO of Deel (Ep. 29)

Running a global, remote-first company isn’t easy. You’re faced with a lot of decisions about what strategies will positively influence the company’s global culture, which is why it’s critical to be data-driven.“Every time I make a big decision, I look at a lot of data and evaluate a lot of data points. Based on that, I’ll analyze and deliver a result and the strategy to the rest of the team. I think it is very important to have a game plan and the reasoning behind it,” says Shuo Wang, CRO and Co-Founder of Deel.In this episode of LEARN, Shuo talks about Deel’s philosophy on hiring, leading, and building culture in a remote-first business. Along the way, they also talk about ways to make the most out of Slack, their messaging platform of choice, to form better relationships internally.Key takeaways:- Returning to data will always help your strategies- Building a kudos channel can help teams work better together- Doing async tasks as much as possible will help increase productivityCheck this episode out on your go-to podcast app to discover how you can elevate your remote employee experience.Resources:- Shuo Wang- Deel- Ted Blosser- WorkRamp