I am Charles Schwartz Show

In this insightful episode, Charles explores the entrepreneurial journey and personal resilience with Bobby Mesmer, founder and CEO of RMG Erectors & Constructors, LLC, now valued at $4.5 billion. Bobby reveals his path from bootstrapping his business to building one of the largest steel erection companies in the world, sharing how multiple life-threatening health crises transformed both his personal outlook and business approach. The conversation shifts from business strategies to profound personal reflection as Bobby opens up about facing mortality through multiple strokes and a heart attack that left him partially disabled and questioning his worth as a leader, husband, and father. Rather than focusing solely on business tactics, Charles and Bobby explore how vulnerability and self-belief become essential components of both personal recovery and business growth. Together, they challenge conventional entrepreneurial wisdom, emphasizing that true success comes from learning from failures and sharing those lessons with others—what Bobby calls paying the "dummy tax." Key Takeaways: * Why bootstrapping creates more resilient business owners than seeking venture capital * How near-death experiences can reveal your true purpose in business and life * The operational excellence formula that transformed Bobby's company into an industry leader * How embracing personal vulnerability after health setbacks can become an unexpected source of strength Head over to podcast.iamcharlesschwartz.com to download your exclusive companion guide, designed to guide you step-by-step in implementing the strategies revealed in this episode. KEY POINTS: 02:13 - The Dummy Tax Philosophy: Bobby explains his core business philosophy: "Dummy tax. I made the mistakes learned from me, right? Like, and you know, it started anybody in business, if you're not failing, you should be because that's the only way you're learning." 06:00 - The Scale of Success: Bobby reveals the impressive scale of his business achievements: "We develop that business into also manufacturing and engineering and design... We're the largest purchaser of fabricated steel in North America." 09:44 - The Problem with VC Funding: Bobby shares his strong view on bootstrapping vs. seeking investors: "When you take on capital, the problem with that is, is you're creating a crutch with the capital you're taking on because you're not going through the heartache of running a business and learning how to grow." 13:01 - The True Entrepreneur Test: Bobby explains how to identify real entrepreneurs: "It's very simple. What are you doing in the face of diversity? It starts there. When that adversity hits you, what are your actions? Either you're sticking your head in the sand or you're pulling yourself by your bootstraps." 35:53 - The Health Crisis Reality: Bobby opens up about his devastating health challenges: "When I had my stroke, I lost a whole left side of my body, like I couldn't move my face... that was the first time in my life, like, I felt real fear, you know, like, I was like, holy shit, like, this is, this is real." 37:46 - Wrestling with Unworthiness: Bobby reveals his deeper struggles after health setbacks: "You have a lot of, you know, self-awareness that comes about you through that... You start to question things and you go through so many emotions of, you know, am I really the strong? Should I really be doing this? I'm not worthy? I'm not good enough for my wife. I'm not good enough for my kids." 50:02 - Finding Purpose Through Pain: Bobby shares how he found meaning after his health crises: "I have more to do. I have more to do. I know that I've been gifted with a gift in a lot of ways. I've been gifted with a gift that I need to give back to people... if my survival through what I went through is that gift that I need to give back, that I need to give that back until it's done."

In this insightful episode, Charles explores the psychology of negotiation with Kwame Christian, founder and CEO of the American Negotiation Institute and host of the #1 negotiation podcast in the world. Kwame reveals his journey from being a chronic people-pleaser to becoming a negotiation expert, sharing how growing up as one of the only Black families in a small Ohio town shaped his approach to human connection. The conversation shifts from theoretical concepts to practical psychology as Kwame breaks down his "Compassionate Curiosity" framework—a three-step approach that works equally well for internal and external negotiations. Rather than focusing on tactical maneuvers, Charles and Kwame explore how creating psychological safety through emotional awareness transforms negotiation outcomes. Together, they challenge conventional negotiation wisdom, emphasizing that persuasion is most effective when imperceptible. Kwame illustrates this through real-world examples from his work with organizations like Google, Apple, and NASA. Key Takeaways: * Why understanding psychology matters more than memorizing negotiation tactics * How to use the "survivability test" to overcome negotiation anxiety * The psychological reason warm food (like pho) creates better negotiation outcomes * Why changing pronouns from "you" to "we" transforms difficult conversations Head over to podcast.iamcharlesschwartz.com to download your exclusive companion guide, designed to guide you step-by-step in implementing the strategies revealed in this episode. KEY POINTS: 5:48 - The Hidden Cost of Popularity: Kwame reveals the silent sacrifices he made to become popular: "I would say yes when I meant to say no, and I would just get along to get along... I was getting other people to like me, but at times I wasn't liking myself." 13:24 - Changing the Pronouns: Charles explains how shifting language transforms negotiations: "Instead of saying 'what do you want?' it's 'what do we want? How are we going to figure out the best solution that works for us?'" 19:41 - Simple vs. Complex: Kwame quotes Leonardo da Vinci and Bruce Lee to explain his approach: "Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication" and "I don't fear the man who knows 10,000 kicks. I fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times." 24:23 - The Empathy Loop: Kwame describes his three-step listening technique: "Step one is listen. Step two is summarize... And then with step three, this is the magic because we don't advance in the conversation until they give us the green light." 35:23 - Feet Don't Lie: Kwame explains why feet reveal true intentions: "Body language becomes more truthful the further away we get from the head... People don't know how to lie with their feet." 37:44 - Curious Not Clinical: Kwame emphasizes that understanding psychology starts with genuine curiosity: "Start paying attention because you start to see, oh, wait a second... people's bodies are screaming all the time." 43:25 - From People Pleaser to Confident Communicator: Kwame mentions his training program specifically designed to help people "overcome those fears, fight those internal barriers so you can be the confident negotiator you always wanted to be."

In this compelling episode, Charles dives deep with Jeremy Estel, a seasoned entrepreneur and venture capitalist who transformed personal tragedy into extraordinary business success. Jeremy opens up about his journey from losing his father at age seven to building multiple Inc. 500 companies, revealing how failure became his most powerful teacher. From watching his childhood stability crumble after his father's death to losing $2 million in just four days as a young trader, Jeremy's story showcases the resilience that ultimately led him to become the youngest trader in Fidelity Investments' history. He candidly shares the pivotal moment when he turned down a $600 million offer for his business—only to later sell it for just $6 million after regulatory challenges. Charles and Jeremy explore a refreshing philosophy on failure, discussing how embracing setbacks as part of your growth story creates the courage to take bigger risks. Their conversation unpacks Jeremy's approach to business losses, personal relationships, and finding fulfillment beyond traditional success markers. Jeremy's insights shine when he breaks down his coaching methodology, revealing how he helps high-achieving professionals—particularly physicians—move beyond the grind to discover real purpose. He challenges conventional thinking about success, advocating for a shift from external validation to internal fulfillment. Key Takeaways: * Learn why treating business failures with curiosity rather than despair creates unexpected opportunities * Discover how therapy and self-awareness transform personal leadership capacity * Understand the powerful distinction between outward success and genuine fulfillment * Master the negotiation strategy of listening first to identify others' true needs * See why purpose—not just profit—creates sustainable business and life satisfaction Head over to podcast.iamcharlesschwartz.com to download your exclusive companion guide, designed to guide you step-by-step in implementing the strategies revealed in this episode. KEY POINTS: 3:30 - The Ripple Effect of Loss: Losing a father at a young age forced the family into instability, highlighting the stark difference between having resources and struggling without them. 10:45 - The Power of Perspective in Business Failure: A $2 million loss in four days became a turning point. Instead of dwelling on failure, shifting the mindset toward learning from it led to a major career breakthrough. 16:15 - Breaking Emotional Barriers: Years of emotional self-protection made vulnerability seem like a weakness. In reality, avoiding it only led to isolation and deeper struggles. 23:22 - Setting the Standard for Future Generations: A therapist’s advice reshaped the understanding of relationships—children mirror what they witness, making it crucial to create a loving, connected environment. 27:40 - The Truth About Success and Imposter Syndrome: Even the most successful people battle self-doubt. The key is pushing forward despite it, recognizing that no one is inherently more capable. 39:00 - Walking Away from a $600M Deal: Turning down a massive offer in hopes of reaching $1 billion led to unexpected legal battles. Instead of a life-changing fortune, the business sold for $6 million. 40:30 - Embracing Failure as the Ultimate Growth Tool: Failure isn’t a setback but a training ground. The most resilient entrepreneurs are those who have lost and come back stronger.

In this episode, Charles plunges into the battlefield of purpose and mental mastery with Garrett Unclebach, a former Navy SEAL who's transformed elite military tactics into powerful business and life strategies. Garrett reveals his playbook for maintaining composure under extreme pressure and finding the deeper meaning that fuels sustainable success. From his grueling days in SEAL training to building multiple successful businesses, Garrett's journey showcases the transformative power of purpose over mere motivation. He dissects his evolution from a young man shaped by his father's consistent wisdom to a leader who trains organizations like Oracle, revealing the DNA of his "infinite potential unlock" philosophy that's helped numerous men deploy into life at their greatest capacity. Charles and Garrett engage in a riveting dialogue, exploring the four pillars of Garrett's mental mastery strategy: breath work, visualization, segmentation, and self-talk. They unpack the game-changing approach of "equanimity" in leadership, the power of perspective over circumstance, and why having purpose beyond yourself trumps transactional thinking in today's high-pressure world. Garrett's insights radiate with battlefield-tested wisdom as he breaks down his unique leadership framework built on strength and warmth. He challenges conventional thinking about resilience, advocating for a fundamental shift from running toward pleasure or away from pain to pursuing purpose with unwavering commitment. Key Takeaways: * Master the SEAL Big Four techniques to maintain calm and clarity in any high-pressure situation * Learn why visualizing success with specific detail creates a powerful framework for achievement * Discover how leading with both strength and warmth creates followers who genuinely want to follow you * Understand how replacing transactional thinking with purpose can unlock your infinite potential Head over to podcast.iamcharlesschwartz.com to download your exclusive companion guide, designed to guide you step-by-step in implementing the strategies revealed in this episode. KEY POINTS: 6:11 - The Power of Core Beliefs: Garrett explains how our foundational beliefs shape our potential, sharing how his parents' consistent message that "you can have anything you want if you're willing to pay the price" created his unlimited mindset. 16:46 - The Purposeful Journey: Garrett reveals his transformative perspective on purpose-driven living, explaining why those who chase after meaningful missions rather than fleeting pleasure achieve extraordinary results. "Running towards purpose is an infinite path." 27:34 - Beyond Transactional Thinking: Garrett distinguishes between transactional approaches to challenges versus the sacrificial mindset that enables "big bet outcomes" by pursuing worthy goals regardless of guaranteed results. 42:50 - True Resilience in Action: Garrett shares his remarkable Hell Week experience, visualizing not just completion but thriving while others struggled - demonstrating how powerful mental framing creates physical outcomes. 50:30 - The SEAL Big Four Framework: Garrett unpacks the elite mental toolkit that powers Navy SEALs through extreme challenges: breath work, visualization, segmentation, and self-talk - actionable techniques anyone can implement immediately. 52:14 - Mastering Self-Talk: Garrett details how intentional self-talk can immediately pull you out of amygdala hijack during high-pressure situations, emphasizing why verbalizing thoughts creates double the impact. 1:01:34 - Leadership Through Strength and Warmth: Garrett reveals his dual leadership framework that creates genuine followership - demonstrating capability while genuinely caring for your team or mission.

In this episode, Charles explores the science of neuroplasticity and mental transformation with John Assaraf, who built a multimillion-dollar empire after starting as a high-school dropout with a troubled past. John reveals his groundbreaking "innercise" methodology, demonstrating how anyone can rewire their brain for success by implementing consistent micro-actions over 100 days, sharing the exact system he used to go from earning $1.65 per hour to making $300,000 in a single year through deliberate brain training techniques. From his life-changing encounter with mentor Alan Brown to becoming a leading expert in applied neuroscience, John's journey illustrates the profound difference between being merely "interested" in success versus truly "committed" to achieving it. He explains the biological mechanics behind our self-limiting beliefs and fear responses, introducing his paradigm-shifting approach that distinguishes between "Einstein" (our creative problem-solving capacity) and "Frankie's monster" (our brain's protective fear mechanism), providing practical techniques to calm the sympathetic nervous system and access our highest mental potential. Charles and John engage in a fascinating exploration of habit formation, examining why most people fail to achieve their goals despite having access to all the necessary information. They unpack John's "rule of 100" and discuss practical brain training exercises anyone can implement, including the physiological breath technique that deactivates fear circuits in just four breaths, and the powerful visualization practices that literally reshape neural pathways when performed consistently. John shares wisdom from decades of coaching high-performers, emphasizing the critical importance of finding purpose beyond material success and using daily visualization to maintain focus on long-term objectives. His exceptional life blueprint approach demonstrates how spending just six minutes daily reviewing goals and mental images can transform abstract dreams into concrete actions, challenging conventional notions about willpower by revealing how systematic brain training creates sustainable success where motivation alone fails. Key Takeaways: * Rewire Your Neural Pathways: Discover the science-backed system for creating new mental habits in 100 days * Master the Fear Response: Learn the 4-breath technique that instantly shifts your brain from panic to productive thinking * Visualize for Results: Understand how consistent mental rehearsal activates the same brain circuits as actual performance * Build Extraordinary Self-Trust: Develop unshakeable confidence through small, consistent daily commitments that compound over time Head over to podcast.iamcharlesschwartz.com to download your exclusive companion guide, designed to guide you step-by-step in implementing the strategies revealed in this episode. KEY POINTS: 15:24 - The Interest vs. Commitment Distinction: John shares the pivotal question that transformed his life - understanding the profound difference between being merely interested in achieving goals versus being truly committed. 20:01 - The Self-Image Reconstruction Method: John reveals his technique for building a new self-image through consistent affirmations and story-crafting, even when your subconscious initially resists the new narratives. 25:20 - The Einstein vs. Frankie Framework: Learn how John's brain model separates your empowering "Einstein" creative problem-solving capacity from your limiting "Frankie's monster" fear-based protection system. 39:02 - The Four-Breath Reset Technique: John demonstrates his physiological breathing method that instantly deactivates fear circuits in your brain, allowing you to shift from anxiety to productive thinking in seconds. 49:49 - The Rule of 100 Success Principle: Discover John's non-negotiable 100-day consistency approach that transforms impossible-seeming goals into inevitable achievements through tiny, manageable daily actions. 54:03 - The Hourglass Life Management System: John explains his visual reminder system for time management, focusing on how to make meaningful choices with your remaining "sand" rather than dwelling on past regrets. 1:00:02 - The Rocking Chair Visualization Test: Learn John's powerful end-of-life perspective technique that helps you identify your true priorities by envisioning advice from your future self to your present self.

In this episode, Charles explores the art of effective communication with Matt Abrahams, a Stanford educator, communication expert, and host of the "Think Fast Talk Smart" podcast. Drawing from his decades of martial arts training and extensive teaching experience, Matt reveals how mastering communication is similar to mastering any skill - it requires structure, practice, and the right mindset. Matt challenges common communication myths, proving that being a great communicator isn't about natural talent but about developing specific, learnable skills. He and Charles dive deep into why most people overcomplicate their communication, how traditional presentation methods often fail, and why connection matters more than perfection. Throughout the conversation, Matt shares his battle-tested "What, So What, Now What" framework, demonstrating how this simple structure can transform any communication scenario - from high-stakes presentations to everyday conversations. He explains how he's helped thousands of professionals, from Stanford students to Fortune 500 executives, develop the confidence to communicate effectively in spontaneous situations. Whether you're a business leader, educator, or professional looking to improve your communication skills, this episode offers practical strategies you can implement immediately to think faster and talk smarter. Key Takeaways: * The "What, So What, Now What" framework for structuring any message * Why standing meetings dramatically improve efficiency and engagement * How focusing on being interested rather than interesting transforms communication * The power of structure over memorization in spontaneous speaking Head over to podcast.iamcharlesschwartz.com to download your exclusive companion guide, designed to guide you step-by-step in implementing the strategies revealed in this episode. KEY POINTS: 4:45 - The Three W's Framework: Matt reveals his powerful "What, So What, Now What" structure that transforms any communication from confusing to crystal clear. 10:01 - Revolutionizing Q&A Sessions: Learn why saying "good question" kills engagement and discover better ways to handle audience interactions authentically. 14:01 - Making Communication Work: Matt shares practical strategies to execute effective communication, moving beyond theory to real-world application. 20:01 - The Power of Connection: Discover how to expand your interaction scope and build genuine rapport, even in virtual environments. 27:08 - Breaking Down Complex Ideas: Learn Matt's proven techniques for making sophisticated concepts accessible to any audience. 34:11 - Connection Over Perfection: Matt debunks the myth of perfect communication and reveals why authentic connection matters more than flawless delivery. 38:10 - The Stand-Up Revolution: How eliminating meeting tables and implementing stand-up meetings can dramatically improve efficiency and engagement.

In this episode, Charles dives deep into the power of launching and scaling a business without the traditional complexities of debt, funnels, or expensive tech with Kelly Roach, the creator of the Live Launch Method. Kelly has helped thousands of entrepreneurs generate seven-figure businesses using a streamlined, high-impact approach that eliminates the need for overwhelming automation and excessive marketing spend. Kelly challenges the "hustle and grind" mentality, proving that success comes from value-driven marketing, human connection, and a simple yet powerful sales process. She and Charles break down why most entrepreneurs overcomplicate their launches, how traditional sales funnels can actually kill momentum, and why consistency beats complexity every time. Throughout the conversation, Kelly reveals her battle-tested formula for launching and scaling with confidence, covering everything from how to generate leads organically, convert prospects without feeling salesy, and create an audience that craves your offer before you even sell. She shares how she built a multimillion-dollar business while balancing motherhood, debunks the biggest myths about launching, and lays out the exact steps to execute a high-converting live launch—without expensive tools or a huge team. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a coach looking to scale, or a business owner tired of complicated marketing tactics, this episode will change the way you think about launching, selling, and growing a business. Key Takeaways: * How Kelly turned live streaming into a million-dollar launch strategy * Why most sales funnels don’t work—and what to do instead * The 3 key activities that drive business growth every single day * How to sell with confidence—without feeling pushy or salesy * Why human connection beats automation when it comes to conversions * A step-by-step breakdown of the Live Launch Method and how you can implement it today Head over to podcast.iamcharlesschwartz.com to download your exclusive companion guide, designed to guide you step-by-step in implementing the strategies revealed in this episode. KEY POINTS: 2:01 - Kelly's Magical Achievements: Kelly shares how she has helped entrepreneurs achieve financial freedom, buy homes in cash, and retire their spouses through her business coaching strategies. 6:10 - Importance of Consistency: Kelly emphasizes why showing up consistently, even when results aren’t immediate, is the key to long-term success in business. 10:34 - Live Launch Method: Kelly breaks down her revolutionary Live Launch Method, explaining how it allows entrepreneurs to scale without debt, ads, or complex funnels. 14:20 - Killing Complexity: She reveals how overcomplicated marketing strategies are the downfall of most entrepreneurs and why simplicity leads to higher conversions. 25:16 - Focus on Serving: Kelly explains why prioritizing service and delivering value before asking for a sale leads to more engaged and loyal customers. 30:25 - Adjust Your Offer: She shares why businesses must adapt their offers based on audience feedback to increase conversions and customer satisfaction. 36:01 - Value Over Automation: Kelly challenges the overuse of automation, stressing that genuine human connection is what truly drives business growth and sales.

David Razowsky joins this episode to reveal how the principles of improvisation go far beyond the stage—transforming the way we communicate, lead, and build relationships in business and life. As the former artistic director of Second City and a coach to some of the biggest names in comedy, David has spent decades mastering the art of presence, adaptability, and deep connection. In this conversation, he breaks down why improvisation isn’t about being funny—it’s about being fully engaged in the moment. He shares powerful insights on how reading body language, responding to energy shifts, and embracing uncertainty can help anyone become a stronger communicator, a more effective leader, and a better decision-maker. David doesn’t just teach improv—he teaches awareness. He reveals why most people fail in communication (hint: they’re too focused on themselves), how to instantly build rapport, and why business leaders, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs need to ditch rigid scripts in favor of real connection. Whether you’re leading a team, pitching an idea, or negotiating a deal, this episode will challenge you to rethink how you show up in every interaction. David’s raw, unfiltered approach will change the way you communicate—and ultimately, how you succeed. Key Takeaways: * Why improvisation is the ultimate skill for leadership, negotiation, and personal growth. * The secret to reading the room and responding to people in real-time. * How to break free from rigid scripts and build authentic connections. * The role of body language, tempo, and micro-expressions in communication. * Practical exercises to sharpen your adaptability and presence. Head over to podcast.iamcharlesschwartz.com to download your exclusive companion guide, designed to guide you step-by-step in implementing the strategies revealed in this episode. KEY POINTS: 2:11 - Connecting Emotionally: David explains why true connection starts with emotional presence. Whether in business, leadership, or personal interactions, people respond to authenticity—not scripted responses. 6:01 - Meet Them Authentically: David highlights the importance of meeting people where they are instead of forcing an agenda. He shares how adaptability and active listening create stronger relationships and better outcomes. 12:15 - Overcoming Fear: Fear stops people from taking risks, speaking up, and engaging fully. David reveals how improvisation helps break through hesitation and teaches confidence in uncertainty. 16:10 - Embrace Your Failures: Mistakes aren’t roadblocks—they’re the path to mastery. David discusses why failure is essential for growth and how shifting your mindset around it can accelerate success. 17:42 - Kinesthetic Response Explained: Your body reacts before your brain does. David introduces the concept of kinesthetic response—how small physical shifts reveal what people are truly thinking and feeling, and why recognizing these cues is a game-changer in communication. 39:01 - Importance of Presence: Being fully engaged in the moment is a superpower. David explains how presence leads to better conversations, deeper connections, and more effective leadership. 44:44 - Body Language Importance: Communication isn’t just about words—body language, micro-expressions, and nonverbal cues shape every interaction. David shares how to read and respond to these signals for more impactful communication.

Herman Dolce joins this episode to share his inspiring journey from a first-generation Haitian-American with a passion for financial literacy to becoming the founder of Bella Sloan Enterprises and a leading expert in business funding. With years of experience helping entrepreneurs secure capital and build solid financial foundations, Herman’s insights are invaluable for anyone looking to grow their business responsibly. Through personal stories and proven strategies, Herman breaks down the common mistakes entrepreneurs make with credit and funding, as well as the steps needed to optimize both for success. He emphasizes the importance of financial literacy, sharing actionable tips on cleaning up credit profiles, building business credit, and stacking funding sources effectively. Herman doesn’t just provide advice—he delivers a clear and practical roadmap for entrepreneurs to secure the resources they need to scale. From understanding the nuances of credit to leveraging smart funding techniques, his insights offer a fresh perspective for anyone navigating the financial side of business. Whether you’re a business owner seeking funding or an aspiring entrepreneur looking to strengthen your financial foundation, this episode is packed with practical advice and real-world examples. Herman’s no-nonsense approach and deep expertise will leave you ready to take control of your financial future. Key Takeaways: * The critical steps to optimizing your credit profile for personal and business success. * How to responsibly leverage funding to grow your business. * The concept of stacking funding sources and why it’s a game-changer for entrepreneurs. * Practical insights into financial literacy that every business owner needs to know. Head over to podcast.iamcharlesschwartz.com to download your exclusive companion guide, designed to guide you step-by-step in implementing the strategies revealed in this episode. KEY POINTS: 4:12 - Understanding Wealth Ratio: Herman explains the wealth ratio formula—dividing savings by monthly expenses—and how it helps assess financial stability. He emphasizes the need for at least six months of savings before leaving a job. 6:02 - Importance of Good Credit: Herman highlights good credit as essential for funding, explaining how personal credit acts as a trust indicator for lenders, especially for new businesses. 10:00 - Credit Optimization Tips: Herman shares quick tips like reducing credit utilization under 9%, cleaning up inquiries, and maintaining a clean credit profile to make lenders see you as more reliable. 12:33 - Importance of Credit Profile: Herman explains why lenders look beyond your credit score, stressing the value of diverse credit types, older accounts, and financial consistency. 14:41 - Buy Assets Only: Herman urges entrepreneurs to buy assets that generate income instead of liabilities that drain resources, emphasizing this as the key to sustainable wealth. 20:36 - Recommended Financial Books: Herman recommends Credit Mastery and 10x Is Easier Than 2x for actionable advice on improving credit and scaling businesses strategically. 45:10 - Leveraging Credit Effectively: Herman explains how to strategically stack funding sources from different banks to maximize capital without negatively impacting your credit profile.

Chris Dyer joins this episode to share his transformative journey from a self-proclaimed “crap boss” to a renowned expert in building exceptional company cultures. With decades of experience leading teams and consulting for top organizations, Chris offers invaluable insights for leaders looking to create workplaces where employees thrive. Through candid stories and research-backed strategies, Chris reveals the pitfalls that leaders often face when trying to improve culture and provides actionable solutions to foster collaboration, innovation, and engagement. He explains why culture isn’t just about slogans or perks but about intentional leadership and aligning organizational values with daily actions. Chris breaks down his Seven Pillars of Culture framework, detailing how transparency, recognition, and positive leadership can turn any workplace into a powerhouse of productivity and growth. His no-nonsense approach demystifies the process of cultural transformation, empowering leaders to address challenges and drive lasting change. Whether you’re a leader looking to turn around your company’s culture or an entrepreneur aiming to build a thriving organization from the ground up, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways. Chris’s practical wisdom and relatable delivery will inspire you to rethink your approach to leadership and culture. Key Takeaways: * The Seven Pillars of Culture and how to implement them effectively. * Why transparency is a game-changer for engagement and performance. * How to cultivate buy-in from employees at every level. * Real-world examples of turning culture into a competitive advantage. Head over to podcast.iamcharlesschwartz.com to download your exclusive companion guide, designed to guide you step-by-step in implementing the strategies revealed in this episode. KEY POINTS: 2:01 - Common Culture Mistakes: Chris explains the most frequent culture-related errors leaders make, including assuming culture is strong without evidence and neglecting to align actions with values. 4:14 - Employee Buy-In: Chris discusses the critical role of involving employees in shaping culture, highlighting strategies to engage them in defining shared values and goals. 9:54 - Weekly Employee Surveys: Chris introduces the concept of replacing outdated annual surveys with weekly one-question check-ins to gain real-time insights and foster a culture of continuous feedback. 14:39 - Seven Pillar Framework: Chris breaks down his Seven Pillars of Culture framework, detailing how transparency, recognition, and positivity can transform organizational culture into a competitive advantage. 17:03 - The Power of Recognition: Chris emphasizes the profound psychological impact of recognition in the workplace, showcasing how celebrating achievements boosts morale and engagement. 19:57 - Sharing Financials with Teams: Chris outlines how radical transparency in sharing financial performance with employees can reduce anxiety, foster trust, and encourage collaborative problem-solving. 22:14 - Creating a Positive Environment: Chris explains why positivity is essential for innovation and productivity, debunking myths about “toxic positivity” and showing how supportive workplaces drive success.