Difference Talks

Send us Fan Mail The fastest way to differentiate your business is not a new product, a bigger ad budget, or a slicker brand—it is your people. Jason Lippert, CEO of Fun Town RV and former CEO of Lippert Components shares how building a culture of trust, accountability, and genuine care helped Lippert Components navigate a steep downturn in its core RV market. In his second appearance on Differenc...

Send us Fan Mail What happens when a physician brings a cello into the hospital and uses music to help patients face some of the hardest moments of their lives? Melanie Ambler is exploring how medicine can be both clinical and deeply human. We sit down with Melanie, an MD and professional cellist who created Musical Rounds—an approach that blends improvisation, presence, and palliative care to hel...

Send us Fan Mail The future of orthopedics isn’t just about developing better implants. It's about delivering improved outcomes though better timing, stronger collaboration, and technology that helps surgeons work with greater confidence and less friction.  In this episode, Zimmer Biomet executive Stephen Vankoski, Vice President of Surgeon Relations America, shares his perspective on how the...

Send us Fan Mail What does it take to lead one of the most unique private club communities in America? In this episode, Don Hunter, CEO of Haig Point Club, shares how transforming a boat-access-only island into a thriving luxury community requires far more than operational excellence. From managing complex transportation and logistics to investing in healthcare, infrastructure, and the local commu...

Send us Fan Mail What happens when an organization is challenged to reconsider something deeply connected to its identity and history? In this episode of Difference Talks , we sit down with Randy Lewandowski, President and CEO of the Indianapolis Indians, to explore leadership, culture, customer experience and the transformative power of listening. Randy shares the story behind the Indianapolis In...

Send us Fan Mail Unlock the secrets behind the curtain of Broadway, from the resilience of legendary productions like Wicked to the leadership lessons that can transform your business. In this episode, we sit down with Teri Pruitt, theater veteran and costume designer, to discuss how trust, quick decision-making, and embracing imperfection can keep your team performing at their best, even when the...

Send us Fan Mail Imagine knowing your genetic risks for common and rare diseases before symptoms appear, and using that knowledge to live healthier, longer lives. In this episode, we explore how Parkview Health's groundbreaking genomics program is making advanced genetic testing more accessible than ever by making it affordable and, in many cases, free. Dr. Michael Mirro and Dr. Jamie Renbarg...

Send us Fan Mail Most professionals overlook how their food choices directly impact their performance, mood, and creativity. In this episode, Adam Kingl, author, speaker, and educator, shares how your diet can become your secret competitive advantage. Discover the surprising science behind simple dietary tweaks that boost energy, sharpen focus, and spark innovation, all backed by research and real...

Send us Fan Mail Many companies lose or fail to discover their true differentiation by trying to be everything to everyone. In this episode, Mark Robison, Chairman and President of Brotherhood Mutual Insurance Company, reveals how his company became a leading Christian-based insurer by doubling down on purpose, faith, and tailored service. Mark shares how they built trust through authentic faith-b...

Send us Fan Mail Most heart attacks and chronic diseases are preventable if you know what to look for. Dr. Ford Brewer reveals simple, powerful tests and lifestyle strategies that can detect hidden risks long before symptoms appear. He has spent decades pioneering preventive medicine at Johns Hopkins and beyond. Dr. Brewer’s insights are rooted in cutting-edge research and real-world experience, o...

Send us Fan Mail Most stories are told in a blur of words, but the difference between a good story and a great one is often how little you actually say. In this episode, award-winning novelist and trial attorney Michael Stockham reveals the secret sauce behind crafting stories that captivate, persuade, and stick with your audience. He shares how brevity, visual clarity, and structured systems turn...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Dr. Sasho MacKenzie discusses how he co-created The Stack System, a data-driven golf training technology designed to increase club head speed using biomechanics, AI, and real-time feedback. What began as early experimentation has grown into a global solution used by thousands of golfers. Joined by host Barry LaBov, he explains how the system delivers measurable, p...

Send us Fan Mail Unlock the secret to a longer, healthier life by mastering the power of lifestyle. Dr. Shad Marvasti reveals how your everyday choices, including diet, relationships, exercise, stress management, and sleep, are the true game-changers in longevity. This episode challenges the modern healthcare system’s focus on pills and procedures, showing why a holistic, proactive approach is the...

Send us Fan Mail Most people think AI is about algorithms and tech jargon, but Rajeev Kapur reveals the simple, game-changing approach that turns AI into your personal mentor and productivity partner. In this episode, discover how treating AI like a person, not just a tool, can unlock extraordinary results in your business, health, and life. Rajeev, named Forbes’ #1 AI influencer bringing AI to th...

Send us Fan Mail In this engaging conversation, Dr. Rod Berger shares his journey as a storyteller and interviewer, emphasizing the importance of human connection, vulnerability, and the power of saying yes to opportunities. He discusses his experiences interviewing notable figures, including Magic Johnson, and how storytelling can serve as a competitive advantage in business. The conversation als...

Send us Fan Mail This inspiring episode features Chris Garrett, Director of Consumer Marketing at FootJoy, sharing his personal journey with a rare brain tumor, revealing insights about resilience, the importance of seeking expert care, and the profound impact of small gestures and honest communication during life's toughest challenges. He wrote a book about his experience titled 10 Things My...

Send us Fan Mail Join us on this episode of Difference Talks as we dive into the transformative power of improvisation in the workplace with Andrew Davies, co-founder of Artly Working. Discover how Andrew uses his background in theater and improv to help organizations like Meta and Google enhance team culture and improve meetings. Learn practical tools and techniques to make your meetings more eng...

Send us Fan Mail Most organizations underestimate the power of genuine fandom—and risk missing out on a loyal, passionate tribe that drives exponential success. In this episode, David Meerman Scott uncovers the counterintuitive lessons from the worlds of the Grateful Dead and NASA to show how authenticity, transparency, and passion turn customers into lifelong fans. Key Takeways: · The most effect...

Send us Fan Mail Unlock the future of marketing with Benny Johnson, CEO of the American Marketing Association, as he reveals why innovation and renovation are the true differentiators in the rapidly evolving marketplace. Discover how legacy brands can stay relevant, the ethical challenges posed by AI, and why human creativity remains the ultimate game-changer in a tech-driven world. Benny explores...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, hosts Marcus McMillan and Barry LaBov sit down with Barry Schneider, President and COO of Steel Dynamics (SDI). Discover how creativity plays a pivotal role in the steel industry, transforming it from a traditional commodity to a dynamic and innovative field. Barry shares his journey from a cornfield in Indiana to leading one of the top steel producers in the Unit...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Barry LaBov and Terry Whalin dive into the world of book writing and promotion. They discuss the challenges and strategies involved in writing and successfully launching a book. They share personal experiences, insights on the importance of consistent promotion, and practical tips for aspiring authors. From the discipline of writing to the art of marketing, this e...

Send us Fan Mail In this engaging episode of Difference Talks, we sit down with Jeff Matlow, a seasoned entrepreneur and leadership coach. Jeff shares his journey from founding multiple companies to coaching leaders at Fortune 500s and founder-led businesses. The conversation dives into the nuances of leadership, the transition from doer to leader, and the unique challenges faced by female leaders...

Send us Fan Mail In this enlightening conversation, Sister Mary Doolittle, Sister Mary Karen, and Sister Bethany Madonna of the Sisters of Life share their profound journey of faith, service, and the mission to uphold the sanctity of human life. They discuss their unique approach to crisis pregnancy, the importance of language in advocacy, and the challenges they face in a changing cultural landsc...

Send us Fan Mail Join hosts Barry LaBov and Marcus McMillen as they sit down with Dr. Ethan Decker, founder of Applied Brand Science and a leading expert in brand strategy and marketing. In this episode, we explore the universal laws of brand loyalty, separate fact from fiction, and uncover what truly drives brand growth. Ethan shares practical insights on differentiation and the role of scientifi...

Send us Fan Mail Adam Kingl, an educator and author, explores the dynamics of today's multigenerational workplace, discussing the challenges and opportunities of engaging different generations, the importance of creativity in leadership, and how organizations can learn from creative industries like Pixar and Carnegie Hall. Adam shares insights from his books, Next Generation Leadership and Sp...