Is workplace flexibility the key to retaining top talent? In this episode, I sit down with Manar Morales, CEO of the Diversity & Flexibility Alliance and author of The Flexibility Paradigm, to tackle one of the biggest challenges leaders face today—how to make workplace flexibility work for everyone. As businesses navigate hybrid environments, employee retention struggles, and shifting cultural expectations, Manar shares why flexibility isn’t just a policy—it’s a business imperative.

We explore how flexibility drives productivity, engagement, and retention while debunking common myths that hold leaders back from embracing it. Through a five-step framework, we break down what organizations, teams, and individuals can do to implement sustainable, high-impact flexibility strategies. If you’ve ever wondered how to balance business needs with employee well-being, this episode is a must-listen!

Topics We Cover in This Episode:

• The unexpected why behind successful workplace flexibility

• A common mistake leaders make that drives top talent away

• How to structure flexibility so that it benefits both employees and businesses

• The overlooked role of co-creation in designing flexible work models

• Why some flexibility policies fail—and how to make sure yours doesn’t

• A thought-provoking question that will reshape how you approach workplace culture

• How flexibility can be the secret weapon for long-term competitive advantage

Workplace flexibility is not just a buzzword—it's a vital strategy for driving business success and retaining top talent. If you’re ready to dive deeper into the topic, be sure to pick up Manar Morales’ book The Flexibility Paradigm here. For more insights on how to create a flexible workplace that benefits both employees and businesses, visit the Diversity and Flexibility Alliance website at dfalliance.com. You can also connect with Manar directly via email at manar@dfalliance or on LinkedIn at Manar Morales.

Resources Mentioned:

The Flexibility Paradigm: https://www.amazon.com/Flexibility-Paradigm-Productivity-Profitability-Possibility/dp/1647125308

Email Manar: manar@dfalliance

Connect with Manar on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/manar-morales-1800a37/

Diversity and Flexibility Alliance: https://dfalliance.com

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How do you build real relationships that drive revenue and open doors to new opportunities? In this episode, I sit down with business development powerhouse Jim Ries to break down the art of strategic networking, collaboration, and event-driven growth. Jim isn’t just talking theory—he’s in the trenches, creating partnerships, hosting innovative events, and helping professionals develop a book of business that actually delivers results.

We dive into his top three strategies for making connections that matter. Jim also reveals the hidden power of event partnerships and why most networking efforts fall flat. If you’ve ever struggled to get a prospect to return your call or wondered how to stand out in a crowded market, this episode is packed with information you can put into action right away.

Topics We Cover in This Episode:

• A fresh approach to networking that eliminates awkward small talk

• The secret to creating events people actually want to attend

• How to turn casual connections into long-term business relationships

• The #1 mistake professionals make when trying to grow their network

• A simple strategy to get in front of more high-value prospects

• Why traditional networking fails—and what to do instead

• How to leverage partnerships to multiply your reach effortlessly

If you enjoyed this conversation and want to connect with Jim, reach out to him via email at jries@offitkurman.com or find him on LinkedIn. And if you found value in this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could use these insights!

Resources Mentioned:

Connect with Jim on LinkedIn

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Think you’re either born a great conversationalist or destined to struggle through awkward small talk forever? Think again. In this episode, I chat with Alison Wood Brooks, behavioral scientist and author of Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves. We dig deep into the hidden mechanics of conversation, the myths holding us back, and tools you can use to connect meaningfully with anyone—whether you’re closing a deal, leading a team, or simply sharing stories with friends and family.

This isn’t your standard “how-to” guide. Alison’s research-backed insights and unique personal anecdotes make this an episode that will shift how you approach every interaction. From the small details of word choice to the big-picture art of building trust, we uncover how the most essential life skill—talking—is also the most overlooked.

Topics We Cover in This Episode:

• Why even “bad” small talk can be a bridge to deep connections

• The subtle art of asking questions that captivate, not interrogate

• Why humor isn’t about being funny—but about finding the fun

• Alison’s favorite tricks to save a dying conversation without breaking a sweat

• How technology has unlocked groundbreaking ways to study human dialogue

• Tools to turn awkward moments into powerful opportunities

Get ready to rethink what it means to truly communicate. This episode is packed with ideas you’ll want to try out immediately.

Resources Mentioned:

Order your copy of Give to Grow

Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow

Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!

Check out Alison’s website

Alison’s Book: Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves