Love in Leadership

Hosted by Laura Eich, Mike McFall

Business Careers EducationInterviews guests

Website RSS feed

Episodes

Latest episode

Mar 2025

Language

About the show

At the Life You Love Laboratory and BIGGBY® COFFEE, we’re out to prove that financial success and healthy workplace culture aren’t two separate goals. BIGGBY® COFFEE's own cultural transformation is proof that not only is it possible to have a successful company where people aren’t miserable at work, but that the happier your people are, the more your business will grow. Each week, join host Laura Eich, Chief Purpose Officer at BIGGBY® COFFEE, and her co-host and BIGGBY® COFFEE co-CEO Mike McFall as they’re joined by guests from around the world to learn how they are fostering a culture of love and growth in the world’s most innovative and people-centric companies. Get inspired. Get real. Get ready to transform workplace culture in America with us. This is the Love in Leadership podcast.

Listen to episodes

23 recent

March 18, 20251 hr 11 min

Creating a Joyful Workplace feat. Richard Sheridan

Today’s guest is a big deal. He’s the CEO of software company Menlo Innovations and the author of two highly recommended books—Joy Inc., and Chief Joy Officer, and he joins us today to share some of the incredible insights he has gained during his impressive career. From his definition of joy at work and how he has built a very unique professional environment and culture at Menlo to the unusual interview experience at Menlo, our conversation is expansive and detailed, giving you the tools you need to adopt some of the same principles in your own leadership journey. Richard shares how he has cultivated an environment where feedback is welcomed, why he has chosen a transparent remuneration structure at Menlo, how he has set this up, and much more. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with today’s deeply intentional and revolutionary guest. Thanks for tuning in! Guest Bio:Rich Sheridan is on a mission to end human suffering in technology. As CEO and Co-Founder of Menlo Innovations, he built a workplace driven by collaboration, experimentation, and joy.Once a fear-driven leader who micromanaged every detail, he discovered that joy at work isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. With a background in software and engineering (U-M BS '80, MS '82), his true passion is process, teamwork, and organizational design.Through his books, Joy, Inc. and Chief Joy Officer, Sheridan shares Menlo’s story to help others create intentional cultures of joy. Because when joy leads, success follows.Key Points From This Episode: [00:00] Welcome and introduction to this episode and a catch up with your hosts.[06:40] Richard Sheridan from Menlo Innovations.[10:31] What Menlo Innovations does.[15:05] Richard’s definition of bringing joy into work and how he measures it. [24:59] Why the work environment that he has built at Menlo would not be suited to everyone.[28:24] How Menlo approaches interviews differently.[34:47] The rewarding, promotion, and progress process at Menlo.[42:25] A story of how Richard realized that Menlo has excellent gender equity.[47:07] Navigating hesitation around salary transparency.[54:20] Why Richard is not transparent about his own compensation.[47:07] Managing the feedback process and making it easy for others to communicate how they feel.[01:03:58] How to book a tour at Menlo. Quotes: “We launched Menlo in June of 2001 with a crazy mission: we wanted to end human suffering in the world as it relates to technology. We’ve been doing that now for almost 24 years. It worked!” — @menloprez [0:09:33] “I don’t think unjoyful people can make joyful results.” — @menloprez [0:16:44] “We have an interview process where we’re actually trying to weed you in, not weed you out.” — @menloprez [0:31:06] “Humans are incredibly adaptable when they are given clear expectations.” — @menloprez [0:33:21]RESOURCES: [01:03:58]Menlo Innovations Tours and Workshops FOLLOW: Follow Richard Sheridan:LinkedInXMenlo InnovationsJoy, Inc.Chief Joy Officer FOLLOW:Follow Laura Eich:LinkedInFacebookInstagram Follow Mike McFall:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookXInstagram Follow BIGGBY® COFFEE & LifeLabTM:WebsiteFacebookXInstagramLinkedInAbout LifeLabTM ABOUT LOVE IN LEADERSHIP:At the Life You Love LaboratoryTM and BIGGBY® COFFEE, we’re out to prove that financial success and healthy workplace culture aren’t two separate goals. BIGGBY® COFFEE's own cultural transformation is proof that not only is it possible to have a successful company where people aren’t miserable at work, but that the happier your people are, the more your business will grow. Each week, join host Laura Eich, Chief Purpose Officer at BIGGBY® COFFEE, and her co-host and BIGGBY® COFFEE co-CEO Mike McFall as they’re joined by guests from around the world to learn how they are fostering a culture of love and growth in the world’s most innovative and people-centric companies. Get inspired. Get real. Get ready to transform workplace culture in America with us. This is the Love in Leadership podcast.Learn more at: loveinleadershippodcast.com ABOUT THE HOSTS:Mike McFall began his journey with BIGGBY® COFFEE as a minimum-wage barista at the original store in East Lansing in 1996. Over the span of 23 years, alongside business partner Bob Fish, he has helped create one of the great specialty coffee brands in America. Today Mike is co-CEO with Bob, and BIGGBY® COFFEE has over 250 stores open throughout the Midwest that sell tens of thousands of cups of coffee each day. But more importantly to Mike and BIGGBY® COFFEE, the company is a profoundly people-first organization.Mike is also the author of Grind, a book which focuses on early-stage businesses and how to establish positive cash flow. Laura Eich is BIGGBY® COFFEE’s Chief People Officer, having worked in a variety of roles at BIGGBY® COFFEE for the last 11+ years. She helped launch BOOST, the department at BIGGBY® COFFEE which ultimately became LifeLabTM — BIGGBY® COFFEE’s in-house culture cultivation team designed to help people be the best versions of themselves and help companies support them along the way. In her role, Laura helps people build lives that they love through the process of building profitable businesses and robust, growth-filled careers. 

January 7, 202552 min

The Balancing Act of Leadership

Leadership isn’t a static role. It’s a balancing act. In this heartfelt season finale of Love in Leadership, Laura and Mike reflect on the highs and challenges of leadership, personal growth, and building meaningful connections in business and life. From stories of transformative company retreats to candid reflections on maintaining work-life balance, this episode dives deep into the evolving roles leaders must play to keep organizations thriving. Whether you're leading a team, navigating a personal leadership journey, or simply seeking insight into workplace culture, this episode offers valuable takeaways to carry into the new year and beyond. Be sure to tune in for an inspiring discussion on vision, trust, and the importance of authentic relationships in leadership! Key Points From This Episode: [0:03:58] Reflections on the growth and evolution of the podcast.[0:06:20] Finding fulfillment and inspiration through leadership conversations.[0:07:57] How the LoveJoy leadership retreat property brought a long-time personal and professional dream to life for Mike.[0:13:07] Laura’s reflections on balance and stepping into an expanded leadership role.[0:15:37] Personal and professional highs and lows (or challenges) from the past year.[0:21:27] Why success is about so much more than being in the right place at the right time.[0:24:07] The significance of a frog and Mike’s hopes and aspirations for 2025.[0:31:22] What it means to be the leader your organization needs right now and build trust through personal connections.[0:35:38] Laura’s dreams for the high-performance “engine” at BIGGBY and LifeLab in 2025.[0:38:48] The importance of improving connections between teams and leadership structures.[0:41:18] How trust, communication, and genuine relationships drive effective leadership.[0:48:36] Looking ahead to Season 3 of Love in Leadership! Quotes: “It’s about finding something you're passionate about, understanding where your talents collide with that passion, [and] finding ways to grow and improve and move forward. That can happen to anybody.” — Laura Eich [0:21:31] “You need to be the leader your organization needs you to be today, tomorrow, this week, this month.” — @mikejmcfall [0:32:53] “We have – brilliant minds that have eyes on what we need them to have eyes on, solutions in mind for how to solve things, and because of – poorly-formed connections or not connecting to the right place, – it gets lost in a game of translation or telephone.” — Laura Eich [0:40:07] “If you really, truly can build a relationship with somebody, even if you've got different views on the world, – you can learn from them. And that's the point.” — @mikejmcfall [0:48:10]RESOURCES: [31:30]Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS)[32:46] Grow by Mike McFall[44:57] Creating An Ecosystem feat. Tara Millburn[51:40] Email us with your feedback and suggestions for future guests! FOLLOW:Follow Laura Eich:LinkedInFacebookInstagram Follow Mike McFall:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookXInstagram Follow BIGGBY® COFFEE & LifeLabTM:WebsiteFacebookXInstagramLinkedInAbout LifeLabTM ABOUT LOVE IN LEADERSHIP:At the Life You Love LaboratoryTM and BIGGBY® COFFEE, we’re out to prove that financial success and healthy workplace culture aren’t two separate goals. BIGGBY® COFFEE's own cultural transformation is proof that not only is it possible to have a successful company where people aren’t miserable at work, but that the happier your people are, the more your business will grow. Each week, join host Laura Eich, Chief Purpose Officer at BIGGBY® COFFEE, and her co-host and BIGGBY® COFFEE co-CEO Mike McFall as they’re joined by guests from around the world to learn how they are fostering a culture of love and growth in the world’s most innovative and people-centric companies. Get inspired. Get real. Get ready to transform workplace culture in America with us. This is the Love in Leadership podcast.Learn more at: loveinleadershippodcast.com ABOUT THE HOSTS:Mike McFall began his journey with BIGGBY® COFFEE as a minimum-wage barista at the original store in East Lansing in 1996. Over the span of 23 years, alongside business partner Bob Fish, he has helped create one of the great specialty coffee brands in America. Today Mike is co-CEO with Bob, and BIGGBY® COFFEE has over 250 stores open throughout the Midwest that sell tens of thousands of cups of coffee each day. But more importantly to Mike and BIGGBY® COFFEE, the company is a profoundly people-first organization.Mike is also the author of Grind, a book which focuses on early-stage businesses and how to establish positive cash flow. Laura Eich is BIGGBY® COFFEE’s Chief People Officer, having worked in a variety of roles at BIGGBY® COFFEE for the last 11+ years. She helped launch BOOST, the department at BIGGBY® COFFEE which ultimately became LifeLabTM — BIGGBY® COFFEE’s in-house culture cultivation team designed to help people be the best versions of themselves and help companies support them along the way. In her role, Laura helps people build lives that they love through the process of building profitable businesses and robust, growth-filled careers. 

December 24, 20241 hr 13 min

Passion, Purpose, and Quality of Life feat. Meghan French Dunbar

The landscape of the business world is changing for the better and to help people prioritize family, personal life, and passion. Not only do these changes make for better employees, but they also improve the overall quality of their lives. Today’s guest is an incredible entrepreneur whose mission is to help other business leaders lead with purpose! Meghan French Dunbar joins us today to discuss her impressive career, the book she’s just written, self-care, and so much more! Join us as we delve into the power of women in the workplace, even touching on the often feared ‘P’ word (patriarchy), and discuss what men can learn from female leaders in business. We go on to talk about how workplace culture is evolving with younger generations before Meghan shares her suggestions for helping people be more vulnerable in group networking settings. Meghan even tells us what to expect from her in the near future. Finally, our guest tells us where to find her online. To hear all this and even be reminded of the power and importance of listening, be sure to tune in now!Guest Bio:Meghan French Dunbar is a purpose-driven business leader and the founder of Conscious Company Magazine. She launched the magazine in 2015 with the mission of highlighting businesses that make a positive impact. After navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, including burnout, she sold the company in 2017 and served as CEO until 2020. Meghan now leads Tide Turn Labs (formerly Women Led), a community for purpose-driven business leaders, co-founded Stakeholder Business, and has written her first book, This Isn’t Working, set for release in August 2025.Key Points From This Episode: [00:19] A quick catch-up with Mike and Laura and what their holiday plans are.[09:15] Welcoming Meghan French Dunbar to the show and a bit about what she does. [11:14] Meghan tells us about what led her to start her business magazine. [15:35] A breakdown of her book and what inspired her to write it. [21:09] How Meghan takes care of herself in between creating her work. [29:21] What women bring to leadership, how men can learn from them, and the dangers of patriarchy. [42:01] How the landscape of workplace culture is evolving with younger generations. [46:36] Where to pre-order Meghan’s book and what’s next for her career. [51:02] Meghan shares some suggestions for helping people open up at group networking events. [59:33] Where listeners can interact with Meghan online. [01:02:52] Some key takeaways from today’s conversation. Quotes: “We feel like we don’t have permission in society to, like, take time off and be with our families and like, do these sorts of things, and sometimes, when one person does them, then someone else feels like it’s okay to do them.” — Meghan French Dunbar [0:26:09] “[Women] have to learn how to express all of the traits that men have been brought up to express. So, we learn how to. – We speak masculine traits and feminine traits, which in reality is just human traits – that we all should have learned how to express in the beginning.” — Meghan French Dunbar [0:32:29] “The number one predictor of longevity in human life is social connections, meaningful, deep, rich social connections.” — Meghan French Dunbar [0:52:24]RESOURCES: [12:42] Conscious Company Media on LinkedIn[46:37]Preorder This Isn’t Working[47:18] Tide Turn Labs[52:21] Harvard Longitudinal Study[57:20] Susan Griffin-Black on LinkedIn[59:41] Stakeholder Business FOLLOW: Follow Meghan French Dunbar:WebsiteLinkedInInstagram FOLLOW:Follow Laura Eich:LinkedInFacebookInstagram Follow Mike McFall:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookXInstagram Follow BIGGBY® COFFEE & LifeLabTM:WebsiteFacebookXInstagramLinkedInAbout LifeLabTM ABOUT LOVE IN LEADERSHIP:At the Life You Love LaboratoryTM and BIGGBY® COFFEE, we’re out to prove that financial success and healthy workplace culture aren’t two separate goals. BIGGBY® COFFEE's own cultural transformation is proof that not only is it possible to have a successful company where people aren’t miserable at work, but that the happier your people are, the more your business will grow. Each week, join host Laura Eich, Chief Purpose Officer at BIGGBY® COFFEE, and her co-host and BIGGBY® COFFEE co-CEO Mike McFall as they’re joined by guests from around the world to learn how they are fostering a culture of love and growth in the world’s most innovative and people-centric companies. Get inspired. Get real. Get ready to transform workplace culture in America with us. This is the Love in Leadership podcast.Learn more at: loveinleadershippodcast.com ABOUT THE HOSTS:Mike McFall began his journey with BIGGBY® COFFEE as a minimum-wage barista at the original store in East Lansing in 1996. Over the span of 23 years, alongside business partner Bob Fish, he has helped create one of the great specialty coffee brands in America. Today Mike is co-CEO with Bob, and BIGGBY® COFFEE has over 250 stores open throughout the Midwest that sell tens of thousands of cups of coffee each day. But more importantly to Mike and BIGGBY® COFFEE, the company is a profoundly people-first organization.Mike is also the author of Grind, a book which focuses on early-stage businesses and how to establish positive cash flow. Laura Eich is BIGGBY® COFFEE’s Chief People Officer, having worked in a variety of roles at BIGGBY® COFFEE for the last 11+ years. She helped launch BOOST, the department at BIGGBY® COFFEE which ultimately became LifeLabTM — BIGGBY® COFFEE’s in-house culture cultivation team designed to help people be the best versions of themselves and help companies support them along the way. In her role, Laura helps people build lives that they love through the process of building profitable businesses and robust, growth-filled careers. 

December 17, 20241 hr 5 min

Creating An Ecosystem feat. Tara Milburn

No matter what industry you are in, swag is everywhere and, when used correctly, can be a very effective vehicle for marketing. Today’s guest is a leader in this field and has made it her mission to create a human-centric ecosystem in her business. Tara Milburn joins us today to discuss her career, her business, Ethical Swag, and the importance of putting people first in leadership. Tuning in, you’ll hear all about her career, what drew her to swag, what Ethical Swag has looked like from opening until now, and so much more! Our guest goes on to talk about how she manages and prioritizes people and relationships before discussing navigating having employees all over the world while still bringing love into her leadership. We even discuss some of the biggest errors she sees when companies try to create a human-centric culture, how she keeps her mission, vision, and values alive in her company, and why being ethical is prioritizing progress over perfection and being entirely transparent. Finally, Tara tells us about her incredible father and what he taught her about leadership. To hear all this, and even be reminded that it takes time to build a sustainable business, press play now!Guest Bio:Tara Milburn is an accomplished business executive with expertise in building partnerships and driving strategic initiatives. She has played key roles in high-profile projects, including co-writing the successful bid for the NBA's first international expansion and contributing to Vancouver's bid for the 2010 Winter Olympics. With a focus on social and ecological sustainability, Tara founded Ethical Swag to promote equity in the corporate merchandise supply chain. She is also an active volunteer, having held leadership positions with the CIBC Run for the Cure, Celtic Colours International Festival, and Cape Breton University. Key Points From This Episode: [00:20] Why Mike absolutely adores frogs and a catch-up with our hosts. [11:03] An introduction to today’s guest, Tara Milburn. [12:08] Tara tells us about the incredible biosphere that she lives in: Cape Breton Island. [13:54] What led her to create her company, Ethical Swag. [16:15] Tara walks us through the process of starting the business through to where it is now. [26:40] How she approaches people and relationships in her business. [31:31] Balancing her family and work life and bringing love into leadership. [37:39] How she manages to lead employees all over the world. [41:24] The mistakes she sees companies make in trying to create a human-centric culture. [44:56] How Tara keeps her mission, vision, and values at the forefront of Ethical Swag. [47:54] What being ethical actually entails. [51:44] Tara shares her bigger goals for the swag industry as a whole. [54:41] How Tara’s father has shaped her as an entrepreneur. [59:54] Some key takeaways from this episode. Quotes: “I sort of see swag as almost a far more economical sponsorship of what you stand for as a brand.” — Tara Milburn [0:14:32] “It’s a technology-driven, human-centered company that we’re creating.” — Tara Milburn [0:21:37] “[Being Ethical means] progress over perfection and – transparency.” — Tara Milburn [0:47:54] “It’s not what you say, it’s what you do that matters.” — Tara Milburn [0:51:48]RESOURCES: [10:08]Ethical Swag FOLLOW: Follow Tara MilburnLinkedInEthical Swag on FacebookEthical Swag on Instagram FOLLOW:Follow Laura Eich:LinkedInFacebookInstagram Follow Mike McFall:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookXInstagram Follow BIGGBY® COFFEE & LifeLabTM:WebsiteFacebookXInstagramLinkedInAbout LifeLabTM ABOUT LOVE IN LEADERSHIP:At the Life You Love LaboratoryTM and BIGGBY® COFFEE, we’re out to prove that financial success and healthy workplace culture aren’t two separate goals. BIGGBY® COFFEE's own cultural transformation is proof that not only is it possible to have a successful company where people aren’t miserable at work, but that the happier your people are, the more your business will grow. Each week, join host Laura Eich, Chief Purpose Officer at BIGGBY® COFFEE, and her co-host and BIGGBY® COFFEE co-CEO Mike McFall as they’re joined by guests from around the world to learn how they are fostering a culture of love and growth in the world’s most innovative and people-centric companies. Get inspired. Get real. Get ready to transform workplace culture in America with us. This is the Love in Leadership podcast.Learn more at: loveinleadershippodcast.com ABOUT THE HOSTS:Mike McFall began his journey with BIGGBY® COFFEE as a minimum-wage barista at the original store in East Lansing in 1996. Over the span of 23 years, alongside business partner Bob Fish, he has helped create one of the great specialty coffee brands in America. Today Mike is co-CEO with Bob, and BIGGBY® COFFEE has over 250 stores open throughout the Midwest that sell tens of thousands of cups of coffee each day. But more importantly to Mike and BIGGBY® COFFEE, the company is a profoundly people-first organization.Mike is also the author of Grind, a book which focuses on early-stage businesses and how to establish positive cash flow. Laura Eich is BIGGBY® COFFEE’s Chief People Officer, having worked in a variety of roles at BIGGBY® COFFEE for the last 11+ years. She helped launch BOOST, the department at BIGGBY® COFFEE which ultimately became LifeLabTM — BIGGBY® COFFEE’s in-house culture cultivation team designed to help people be the best versions of themselves and help companies support them along the way. In her role, Laura helps people build lives that they love through the process of building profitable businesses and robust, growth-filled careers. 

December 11, 202459 min

Meeting People Where They're At feat Brandon Cruise & Jeff Konczak

If you want to be a successful leader, you need to be present with each person you interact with, prioritize the growth of your team, and meet people where they’re at. Today on Love In Leadership, we are joined by BIGGBY® COFFEE partners, Brandon Cruise and Jeff Konczak to discuss what has brought them success in their leadership journeys. Hear all about their effortless partnership, how they define the BIGGBY® COFFEE culture, and what they love about the brand. As the conversation progresses, we dive into the nitty gritty details of our guest’s leadership styles. Jeff and Brandon humbly share their strengths in building and maintaining relationships before discussing the importance of finding balance by doing what you love. We even hear about what we can look forward to from the two of them in the future. Finally, Brandon tells us how faith has made him a better leader and Jeff reminds us to make the most of our limited days on earth. To hear all this and so much more, tune in now!Guest Bio: Brandon Cruise is a BIGGBY® COFFEE franchise owner based in Marysville, Ohio, where he lives with his wife, Laura, and their four young children. Since signing on for their first franchise in 2018, Brandon and his family have successfully grown their business, now owning two locations (556 and 1048) since 2020. Brandon’s parents, Sandy and Clancy, play a crucial role in the business. Sandy manages the essential administrative tasks, including payroll, while Clancy, a former pastor with over 30 years of experience, is a certified espresso machine technician who handles equipment maintenance and repairs. Together, the Cruise family’s teamwork and dedication have been key to their business's success.Jeff Konczak is an entrepreneur and founder of BCubed Manufacturing, specializing in modular drive-through BIGGBY® COFFEE shops. Based in his hometown, Jeff has built a diverse business portfolio, including four BIGGBY Coffee franchises and extensive real estate holdings, such as VA clinics and historic properties. Starting with a single prototype in 2017, BCubed has since grown to 77 locations. Jeff is also deeply involved in local development, acquiring and revitalizing properties, including cinemas and waterfront buildings. His innovative approach combines business growth with community revitalization, making a lasting impact both locally and beyond.Key Points From This Episode: [00:35] A brief catch-up with our hosts and a little of what they’ve been up to. [08:48] Introducing our guests, Jeff Konczak and Brandon Cruise. [13:04] How Jeff and Brandon got to know each other. [14:48] Brandon tells us what his role is and how he defines the BIGGBY® COFFEE culture. [19:05] What drew Jeff to BIGGBY® COFFEE and what he loves about it.[24:19] Our guests describe their leadership styles and tell us what works for them. [40:10] How Brandon and Jeff balance their work with their personal lives. [44:38] What our guests are excited about for the future of their businesses. [50:07] Brandon tells us how his faith impacts him as a leader. [54:19] Key takeaways from today’s inspirational conversation. Quotes: “We want the best for the brand. I've fallen in love with [it].” — Jeff Konczak [0:21:04] “There's nothing that isn't possible if you put your mind to it and work hard.” — Jeff Konczak [0:31:44] “The people that work for you are everything. – If you don't have [them], then you do become unbalanced really quickly because then it feels like it's up to you to do everything.” — Brandon Cruise [0:43:21] “I'm all about letting people make mistakes and move forward and try to get better every day.” — Brandon Cruise [0:51:46]RESOURCES: [10:48]BCubed Manufacturing[26:05] How to Win Friends and Influence People[51:18] Switchfoot FOLLOW: Follow Brandon Cruise:FacebookInstagram Follow Jeff Konczak:LinkedInFacebook FOLLOW:Follow Laura Eich:LinkedInFacebookInstagram Follow Mike McFall:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookXInstagram Follow BIGGBY® COFFEE & LifeLabTM:WebsiteFacebookXInstagramLinkedInAbout LifeLabTM ABOUT LOVE IN LEADERSHIP:At the Life You Love LaboratoryTM and BIGGBY® COFFEE, we’re out to prove that financial success and healthy workplace culture aren’t two separate goals. BIGGBY® COFFEE's own cultural transformation is proof that not only is it possible to have a successful company where people aren’t miserable at work, but that the happier your people are, the more your business will grow. Each week, join host Laura Eich, Chief Purpose Officer at BIGGBY® COFFEE, and her co-host and BIGGBY® COFFEE co-CEO Mike McFall as they’re joined by guests from around the world to learn how they are fostering a culture of love and growth in the world’s most innovative and people-centric companies. Get inspired. Get real. Get ready to transform workplace culture in America with us. This is the Love in Leadership podcast.Learn more at: loveinleadershippodcast.com ABOUT THE HOSTS:Mike McFall began his journey with BIGGBY® COFFEE as a minimum-wage barista at the original store in East Lansing in 1996. Over the span of 23 years, alongside business partner Bob Fish, he has helped create one of the great specialty coffee brands in America. Today Mike is co-CEO with Bob, and BIGGBY® COFFEE has over 250 stores open throughout the Midwest that sell tens of thousands of cups of coffee each day. But more importantly to Mike and BIGGBY® COFFEE, the company is a profoundly people-first organization.Mike is also the author of Grind, a book which focuses on early-stage businesses and how to establish positive cash flow. Laura Eich is BIGGBY® COFFEE’s Chief People Officer, having worked in a variety of roles at BIGGBY® COFFEE for the last 11+ years. She helped launch BOOST, the department at BIGGBY® COFFEE which ultimately became LifeLabTM — BIGGBY® COFFEE’s in-house culture cultivation team designed to help people be the best versions of themselves and help companies support them along the way. In her role, Laura helps people build lives that they love through the process of building profitable businesses and robust, growth-filled careers. 

December 3, 202446 min

Navigating Change

Key Points From This Episode: [00:45] Catching up with your hosts, Mike McFall and Laura Eich.[03:00] Mike shares details about his son’s program, Class Afloat.[05:40] The need for organizations to consistently change and evolve over time.[09:20] Navigating change as someone who seeks stability and consistency.[11:30] The impact on the culture of an organization and its approach to dealing with change.[12:10] Laura reflects on her comment about Mike “still being there” during the reorg.[14:30] Mike unpacks the idea that the culture of your organization is the summation of the relationships within the organization.[16:50] We look at the possible processes of forming the culture within an organization.[20:00] Can you force culture in an organization?[25:40] Laura shares about reintegrating the new Life You Love laboratory team.[31:10] Our take on layoffs and people losing their jobs.[38:50] We talk about the things that we are grateful and thankful for. Quotes: “There's a need to evolve regularly. We have to be changing. We have to be working and improving, and we have to be getting better. That does mean a significant amount of change.” — @MikeJMcFall [0:07:23] “I think how companies deal with change is important to the culture of the organization.” — @MikeJMcFall [0:11:34] “The culture of your organization is the summation of the relationships in the organization — Focusing on the relationships and building the relationships, building the trust is how you build a safe culture.” — @MikeJMcFall [0:14:20] “Building an environment where relationships can occur is the job of ‘leadership.’” — @MikeJMcFall [0:15:30] “If you desire to be part of the [organization’s] culture, you have to offer some part of yourself to be part of that culture as well, and the culture evolves with your participation.” — Laura Eich [0:18:38] “We want to utilize the people in our company to the best of their ability and the company's ability because it's also not respectful to leave people in a role where they're not doing something great.” — Laura Eich [0:32:12]RESOURCES: [03:07]Class Afloat[16:30] LifeLab[22:50] Grow: Take Your Business from Chaos to Calm[42:20] Des Linden on X[45:40] Meghan French Dunbar FOLLOW:Follow Laura Eich:LinkedInFacebookInstagram Follow Mike McFall:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookXInstagram Follow BIGGBY® COFFEE & LifeLabTM:WebsiteFacebookXInstagramLinkedInAbout LifeLabTM ABOUT LOVE IN LEADERSHIP:At the Life You Love LaboratoryTM and BIGGBY® COFFEE, we’re out to prove that financial success and healthy workplace culture aren’t two separate goals. BIGGBY® COFFEE's own cultural transformation is proof that not only is it possible to have a successful company where people aren’t miserable at work, but that the happier your people are, the more your business will grow. Each week, join host Laura Eich, Chief Purpose Officer at BIGGBY® COFFEE, and her co-host and BIGGBY® COFFEE co-CEO Mike McFall as they’re joined by guests from around the world to learn how they are fostering a culture of love and growth in the world’s most innovative and people-centric companies. Get inspired. Get real. Get ready to transform workplace culture in America with us. This is the Love in Leadership podcast.Learn more at: loveinleadershippodcast.com ABOUT THE HOSTS:Mike McFall began his journey with BIGGBY® COFFEE as a minimum-wage barista at the original store in East Lansing in 1996. Over the span of 23 years, alongside business partner Bob Fish, he has helped create one of the great specialty coffee brands in America. Today Mike is co-CEO with Bob, and BIGGBY® COFFEE has over 250 stores open throughout the Midwest that sell tens of thousands of cups of coffee each day. But more importantly to Mike and BIGGBY® COFFEE, the company is a profoundly people-first organization.Mike is also the author of Grind, a book which focuses on early-stage businesses and how to establish positive cash flow. Laura Eich is BIGGBY® COFFEE’s Chief People Officer, having worked in a variety of roles at BIGGBY® COFFEE for the last 11+ years. She helped launch BOOST, the department at BIGGBY® COFFEE which ultimately became LifeLabTM — BIGGBY® COFFEE’s in-house culture cultivation team designed to help people be the best versions of themselves and help companies support them along the way. In her role, Laura helps people build lives that they love through the process of building profitable businesses and robust, growth-filled careers. 

November 26, 20241 hr 0 min

Leadership, Love Languages, & Lasting Impact feat. Ed Buison

Guest Bio:Ed Buison is an Area Representative of BIGGBY® COFFEE in Oakland County, Michigan. He’s a B.S. graduate in Computer Science and a Master’s recipient in Business Administration from Wayne State University, with a decade of experience in computer programming. Together with his wife, Eileen, Ed has two other businesses—Avalon Care, LLC and CuCenTech—and the pair now have their third and fourth BIGGBY® COFFEE branches in development. Ed’s love languages are words of affirmation and physical touch. Key Points From This Episode: [01:26] Laura and Mike’s current thoughts and feelings about AI in business.[09:43] Welcoming Ed Buison as he explains who he is and what he does.[11:15] How he found BIGGBY®, and why he decided to join the community.[16:16] Why he and his wife Eileen chose entrepreneurship in a time of financial unrest.[18:41] The pros and cons of going into business with your spouse.[20:37] How Ed went from shy to confident, and why he prioritizes caring for his staff.[26:30] Ed and Eileen’s protocol for cultivating their unique and inspirational office culture.[33:47] Why their colleagues handed them the BIGGBY® COFFEE Purpose Award for 2024.[35:26] Bringing experts to the office and other ways Ed helps his staff succeed.[38:51] A closer look at how he develops leaders at work.[43:06] Ed details his primary love language.[46:31] Why office personality tests are an important work-in-progress for Ed and his team.[47:55] Using Megan as a case study for how Ed and Eileen support and reward their staff.[50:40] Ed’s biggest goals and how he hopes to achieve them.[54:38] Key takeaways from today’s conversation. Quotes: “What really drew us [into BIGGBY®] was the idea of supporting your community, because we do believe that as a business, you are – obligated or you have to give back to the community because those are your customers; they’re the ones supporting you.” — Ed Buison [0:14:20] “[As] you do things more and more, you get more comfortable, and then maybe you even start to enjoy it.” — Ed Buison [0:24:47] “I always believe that the people within an organization are a reflection of the culture of the organization, which is truly established and nurtured by the owner; by the leader.” — @MikeJMcfall [0:26:33] “We hate to lose good [staff members] but we’re so happy that we’ve been a part of this connection to get them to the next step.” — Ed Buison [0:30:10] “We don’t do it for the recognition but it is nice when you’re recognized.” — Ed Buison [0:44:48]RESOURCES: [04:12] ‘How To Lead Through AI Anxiety: Strategies For The Modern Workplace’[16:16] Eileen Buison on LinkedIn[16:16] Avalon Care, LLC[16:16] CuCenTech[27:39] The 5 Love Languages[42:51] The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace[50:50] The Moonshot Guidebook[55:56] PNC Bank FOLLOW: Follow Ed Buison:LinkedIn FOLLOW:Follow Laura Eich:LinkedInFacebookInstagram Follow Mike McFall:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookXInstagram Follow BIGGBY® COFFEE & LifeLabTM:WebsiteFacebookXInstagramLinkedInAbout LifeLabTM ABOUT LOVE IN LEADERSHIP:At the Life You Love LaboratoryTM and BIGGBY® COFFEE, we’re out to prove that financial success and healthy workplace culture aren’t two separate goals. BIGGBY® COFFEE's own cultural transformation is proof that not only is it possible to have a successful company where people aren’t miserable at work, but that the happier your people are, the more your business will grow. Each week, join host Laura Eich, Chief Purpose Officer at BIGGBY® COFFEE, and her co-host and BIGGBY® COFFEE co-CEO Mike McFall as they’re joined by guests from around the world to learn how they are fostering a culture of love and growth in the world’s most innovative and people-centric companies. Get inspired. Get real. Get ready to transform workplace culture in America with us. This is the Love in Leadership podcast.Learn more at: loveinleadershippodcast.com ABOUT THE HOSTS:Mike McFall began his journey with BIGGBY® COFFEE as a minimum-wage barista at the original store in East Lansing in 1996. Over the span of 23 years, alongside business partner Bob Fish, he has helped create one of the great specialty coffee brands in America. Today Mike is co-CEO with Bob, and BIGGBY® COFFEE has over 250 stores open throughout the Midwest that sell tens of thousands of cups of coffee each day. But more importantly to Mike and BIGGBY® COFFEE, the company is a profoundly people-first organization.Mike is also the author of Grind, a book which focuses on early-stage businesses and how to establish positive cash flow. Laura Eich is BIGGBY® COFFEE’s Chief People Officer, having worked in a variety of roles at BIGGBY® COFFEE for the last 11+ years. She helped launch BOOST, the department at BIGGBY® COFFEE which ultimately became LifeLabTM — BIGGBY® COFFEE’s in-house culture cultivation team designed to help people be the best versions of themselves and help companies support them along the way. In her role, Laura helps people build lives that they love through the process of building profitable businesses and robust, growth-filled careers. 

November 12, 202454 min

The Difference Between Management & Leadership feat. Rick Loera

Rick Loera is a dedicated BIGGBY® COFFEE franchise owner and the 2024 BIGGBY Cup Winner, recognized for his commitment to fostering a positive work environment. With a background of nearly 30 years in restaurant management, including roles with Bob Evans and Outback Steakhouse, Rick brings a wealth of experience in leadership and team development. Now leading multiple BIGGBY locations in Ohio, he emphasizes speed, customer experience, and BIGGBY’s core values to create a thriving, community-focused business. Key Points From This Episode: [06:56] Rick Loera, franchise owner of BIGGBY® Coffee Elyria and BIGGBY Cup winner.[09:45] A history of the BIGGBY® Cup, what it is, and how it’s awarded.[12:04] Rick’s time working at Bob Evans and how he became a BIGGBY® franchise owner.[15:55] Powerful leadership lessons from Rick’s years of restaurant management experience.[19:32] Unpacking the distinctions between management and leadership.[21:22] How Rick makes sure he engages in growth and continuous learning.[23:08] The number one factor in creating a workplace where people want to show up.[29:25] Tips for creating a fun, engaging, and creative work environment.[31:35] Rick’s thoughts on the concept of love in the workplace.[36:06] BIGGBY®’s PERC philosophy and other similar guiding principles.[42:35] An anecdote about BIGGBY®’s Farm-Direct certification and environmental ethos.[45:27] Rick’s dream to expand the BIGGBY® locations in Lorain County.[48:46] Reflections on today’s conversation and Rick’s leadership lessons. Quotes: “People get in that position and think, ‘Okay, now, I’m a leader because I’m a manager.’ — There is just so much more to leadership than [there is to] management. — Leadership is truly about growing people.” — Rick Loera [0:19:57] “Managing is just managing processes. Leadership is all about growing people. And if you don’t grow your people, you’re not growing yourself.” — Rick Loera [0:20:46] “We have to create a positive work environment for our people.” — Rick Loera [0:23:35] “Sometimes, as leaders, you think that you may know everything, right? You don’t. Embrace feedback.” — Rick Loera [0:27:36] “You have to love what you do. And if you don’t love what you do, then it is not going to filter down to your team, to your managers, and even to your customers.” — Rick Loera [0:31:39]RESOURCES: [22:25] Rick’s recommendations for continuous growth and learning Switch and Raving Fans.[46:46] Check out Rick’s BIGGBY® Coffee location at 831 Cleveland Street in Elyria, Ohio. FOLLOW:Follow Laura Eich:LinkedInFacebookInstagram Follow Mike McFall:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookXInstagram Follow BIGGBY® COFFEE & LifeLabTM:WebsiteFacebookXInstagramLinkedInAbout LifeLabTM ABOUT LOVE IN LEADERSHIP:At the Life You Love LaboratoryTM and BIGGBY® COFFEE, we’re out to prove that financial success and healthy workplace culture aren’t two separate goals. BIGGBY® COFFEE's own cultural transformation is proof that not only is it possible to have a successful company where people aren’t miserable at work, but that the happier your people are, the more your business will grow. Each week, join host Laura Eich, Chief Purpose Officer at BIGGBY® COFFEE, and her co-host and BIGGBY® COFFEE co-CEO Mike McFall as they’re joined by guests from around the world to learn how they are fostering a culture of love and growth in the world’s most innovative and people-centric companies. Get inspired. Get real. Get ready to transform workplace culture in America with us. This is the Love in Leadership podcast.Learn more at: loveinleadershippodcast.com ABOUT THE HOSTS:Mike McFall began his journey with BIGGBY® COFFEE as a minimum-wage barista at the original store in East Lansing in 1996. Over the span of 23 years, alongside business partner Bob Fish, he has helped create one of the great specialty coffee brands in America. Today Mike is co-CEO with Bob, and BIGGBY® COFFEE has over 250 stores open throughout the Midwest that sell tens of thousands of cups of coffee each day. But more importantly to Mike and BIGGBY® COFFEE, the company is a profoundly people-first organization.Mike is also the author of Grind, a book which focuses on early-stage businesses and how to establish positive cash flow. Laura Eich is BIGGBY® COFFEE’s Chief People Officer, having worked in a variety of roles at BIGGBY® COFFEE for the last 11+ years. She helped launch BOOST, the department at BIGGBY® COFFEE which ultimately became LifeLabTM — BIGGBY® COFFEE’s in-house culture cultivation team designed to help people be the best versions of themselves and help companies support them along the way. In her role, Laura helps people build lives that they love through the process of building profitable businesses and robust, growth-filled careers. 

November 5, 202450 min

What If Work Was More? feat. Alisha Beck

Guest Bio:Alisha Beck, originally from southeast Michigan, has a rich background in people-oriented roles. Starting her career at Dunkin Donuts, she transitioned to BIGGBY® COFFEE, where she has held various positions at store and home office levels, including personal development mentoring, culture development, and employee coaching. Alisha currently holds the title of People Development Mentor and is a key part of the LifeLab team. Outside of work, she is a mom, wife, and dog mommy and lives in Farmington, Michigan. Key Points From This Episode: [05:16] Alisha Beck’s career journey to People Development Mentor at BIGGBY® COFFEE.[11:35] Her transition from traditional operations to The Life You Love Laboratory.[14:00] Alisha’s leadership superpower and what she learned from her time at Dunkin Donuts.[17:28] The origins of the Life You Love Workshops and how Alisha helped develop them.[20:46] How these workshops benefit and impact the lives of participants.[24:01] Inspiring stories of transformation and connection from the Life You Love Workshops.[29:01] Key lessons from the Harvard case study on the Life You Love Workshops.[30:51] How these workshops would need to change for greater adoption among franchisees.[32:48] The value of these workshops for young people.[36:23] BIGGBY'®s Vision Store program and its goal to improve workplace culture in the US.[37:56] What Alisha and Laura would wish for if they had a magic wand.[41:56] Top challenges in getting people to take part in non-traditional programs.[46:23] An overview of today’s episode and Alisha’s passion for her work. Quotes: “Our purpose is to support you in building a life you love. And I am just so naturally drawn to that as a person because I have always wanted to inspire people to do exactly that.” — Alisha Beck [0:11:57] “When we started building what we call the boost sphere, I felt really passionate about what that work was going to be turning into, and I wanted to have a seat at the table to help build it and help create it and help grow it.” — Alisha Beck [0:13:10] “Part of [our quest] and that we’re trying to prove is that this work is how you are going to be profitable. – It can feel like an afterthought, and it can feel like something that can happen later, but when we keep waiting until after, we might miss that [opportunity].” — Alisha Beck [0:32:12] “If I could wave a magic wand, it would somehow be finding a way to engage the owner-operators more. And that is a lot of the work that we are focused on this year.” — Alisha Beck [0:38:49]RESOURCES: [16:27] Discover LifeLabTM: The Life You Love LaboratoryTM[16:57] Learn about the Life You Love LaboratoryTM Workshop Series.[36:23] Gain insights on BIGGBY'®s Vision Store program.[42:29] Find out how to take the Life You Love Assessment.Follow Alisha BeckLinkedInInstagramLinketree FOLLOW:Follow Laura Eich:LinkedInFacebookInstagram Follow Mike McFall:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookXInstagram Follow BIGGBY® COFFEE & LifeLabTM:WebsiteFacebookXInstagramLinkedInAbout LifeLabTM ABOUT LOVE IN LEADERSHIP:At the Life You Love LaboratoryTM and BIGGBY® COFFEE, we’re out to prove that financial success and healthy workplace culture aren’t two separate goals. BIGGBY® COFFEE's own cultural transformation is proof that not only is it possible to have a successful company where people aren’t miserable at work, but that the happier your people are, the more your business will grow. Each week, join host Laura Eich, Chief Purpose Officer at BIGGBY® COFFEE, and her co-host and BIGGBY® COFFEE co-CEO Mike McFall as they’re joined by guests from around the world to learn how they are fostering a culture of love and growth in the world’s most innovative and people-centric companies. Get inspired. Get real. Get ready to transform workplace culture in America with us. This is the Love in Leadership podcast.Learn more at: loveinleadershippodcast.com ABOUT THE HOSTS:Mike McFall began his journey with BIGGBY® COFFEE as a minimum-wage barista at the original store in East Lansing in 1996. Over the span of 23 years, alongside business partner Bob Fish, he has helped create one of the great specialty coffee brands in America. Today Mike is co-CEO with Bob, and BIGGBY® COFFEE has over 250 stores open throughout the Midwest that sell tens of thousands of cups of coffee each day. But more importantly to Mike and BIGGBY® COFFEE, the company is a profoundly people-first organization.Mike is also the author of Grind, a book which focuses on early-stage businesses and how to establish positive cash flow. Laura Eich is BIGGBY® COFFEE’s Chief People Officer, having worked in a variety of roles at BIGGBY® COFFEE for the last 11+ years. She helped launch BOOST, the department at BIGGBY® COFFEE which ultimately became LifeLabTM — BIGGBY® COFFEE’s in-house culture cultivation team designed to help people be the best versions of themselves and help companies support them along the way. In her role, Laura helps people build lives that they love through the process of building profitable businesses and robust, growth-filled careers. 

October 29, 202456 min

Anarchy, Synergy, and Just Doing Good Work feat. Ari Weinzweig

‘Having a vocation is like falling in love, and it works out,’ says writer, anarchist, and philosopher, Paul Goodman. Ari Weinzweig holds the title of co-founder and CEO at Zingerman’s, but he is also an anarchist and philosopher. During this episode, he joins us in conversation to tell his story and share the guiding principles behind his life philosophy and business journey. Tune in to hear him challenge perceptions about anarchism and synergy, positive belief in human beings, and what it means not to think hierarchically about your achievements. Making the distinction between data and culture, Ari unpacks his leadership style and why he believes that building culture is the true work of leadership. Going deeper, we discuss the relationship between belief, company health, and the imperfect art of working with people. We touch on the simple legacy Ari would like to leave behind, how he has managed to go off the grid with his business in order to live his values, and how Ari manages to truly be himself so much so that he is a rebel against expectation. Join us today to hear all this and more. Guest Bio: In 1982, Ari Weinzweig and Paul Saginaw founded Zingerman’s Delicatessen in Ann Arbor, Michigan, using a $20,000 bank loan. Weinzweig, equipped with a Russian History degree and four years of kitchen experience, opened the deli with two employees and a small range of specialty foods and sandwiches. Today, Zingerman’s has evolved into a nationally recognized food brand, expanding into the Zingerman’s Community of Businesses, which includes 11 distinct entities such as Zingerman’s Bakehouse and ZingTrain, employing over 750 people and generating more than $65 million in annual revenue. Each business operates uniquely, but they all adhere to a shared Vision and Guiding Principles, collectively delivering “The Zingerman’s Experience” with passion and commitment. Key Points From This Episode: [02:25] Ari Weinzweig, co-founder and CEO of Zingerman’s and his journey to success.[12:29] How his choice of major, Russian history, illustrates an important principle.[13:54] The story of Zingerman’s as told by the 12 Natural Laws of Business.[20:05] Moving forward and prioritizing growth whilst staying true to their original vision.[23:13] How he has trained himself not to think hierarchically about his success.[26:30] The evolution of his leadership style and relationship to anarchism and synergy.[31:37] A description of the legacy he would like to leave behind.[38:26] Why he believes that building culture is the true work of leadership.[44:56] What motivated Ari to go off the grid with his business endeavors and book publishing.[49:31] An overview of this episode and how Ari lives his business values. Quotes: “Do what you want, not what everybody else wants you to do.” — Ari Weinzweig [0:12:51] “I’ve tried to train myself to appreciate the little things because that’s really all there is.” — Ari Weinzweig [0:23:24] “[Anarchism] is really about a way of being in the world, not about taking power.” — Ari Weinzweig [0:29:33] “The thing about dignity is, it’s all free, and we don’t need permission, and we don’t need anyone else to do it, we can just do it.” — Ari Weinzweig [0:31:20] “All day long, we’re all contributing positively and negatively to the culture and none of us get it right all the time.” — Ari Weinzweig [0:38:59]RESOURCES: [04:46] Read poetry by David Whyte.[06:26] Learn more about anarchist and philosopher Paul Goodman.[14:15] Unpack Zingerman’s 12 Natural Laws of Business.[21:12] Find out about the work of Ruth Benedict. [26:59] Explore Stephen Covey, Peter Drucker, Max De Pree, Robert Greenleaf, and Margaret Wheatley. [26:59] Read Ari’s essay, Jewish Rye Bread. [29:41] Immerse yourself in the work of Howard Ehrlich.[46:22] Unveil Ari’s thoughts on Dignity and Working Through Hard Times. FOLLOW:Follow Laura Eich:LinkedInFacebookInstagram Follow Mike McFall:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookXInstagram Follow BIGGBY® COFFEE & LifeLabTM:WebsiteFacebookXInstagramLinkedInAbout LifeLabTM ABOUT LOVE IN LEADERSHIP:At the Life You Love LaboratoryTM and BIGGBY® COFFEE, we’re out to prove that financial success and healthy workplace culture aren’t two separate goals. BIGGBY® COFFEE's own cultural transformation is proof that not only is it possible to have a successful company where people aren’t miserable at work, but that the happier your people are, the more your business will grow. Each week, join host Laura Eich, Chief Purpose Officer at BIGGBY® COFFEE, and her co-host and BIGGBY® COFFEE co-CEO Mike McFall as they’re joined by guests from around the world to learn how they are fostering a culture of love and growth in the world’s most innovative and people-centric companies. Get inspired. Get real. Get ready to transform workplace culture in America with us. This is the Love in Leadership podcast.Learn more at: loveinleadershippodcast.com ABOUT THE HOSTS:Mike McFall began his journey with BIGGBY® COFFEE as a minimum-wage barista at the original store in East Lansing in 1996. Over the span of 23 years, alongside business partner Bob Fish, he has helped create one of the great specialty coffee brands in America. Today Mike is co-CEO with Bob, and BIGGBY® COFFEE has over 250 stores open throughout the Midwest that sell tens of thousands of cups of coffee each day. But more importantly to Mike and BIGGBY® COFFEE, the company is a profoundly people-first organization.Mike is also the author of Grind, a book which focuses on early-stage businesses and how to establish positive cash flow. Laura Eich is BIGGBY® COFFEE’s Chief People Officer, having worked in a variety of roles at BIGGBY® COFFEE for the last 11+ years. She helped launch BOOST, the department at BIGGBY® COFFEE which ultimately became LifeLabTM — BIGGBY® COFFEE’s in-house culture cultivation team designed to help people be the best versions of themselves and help companies support them along the way. In her role, Laura helps people build lives that they love through the process of building profitable businesses and robust, growth-filled careers. 