Show Your Value with Lee Benson

Want to know how a business can scale into the billions? In this episode, we have an incredible conversation with Brian Smith, the legendary founder of Ugg, who transformed a niche product into a global phenomenon worth $2 Billion dollars. Brian takes us through his incredible journey, from struggling with just 28 pairs in sales to building an iconic brand recognized worldwide. What You'll Le...

Welcome to another episode of Show Your Value with Lee Benson. In this episode, I'm joined by the dynamic Josh Linkner, a visionary in the world of creativity and innovation. Josh is a renowned entrepreneur, New York Times bestselling author, venture capitalist, and musician. He’s spent decades studying human creativity and is passionate about empowering others to become everyday innovators....

I had the privilege of sitting down with Jan Rutherford, the founder of Self-Reliant Leadership and a former Green Beret, to explore the deep connection between self-reliance, leadership, and personal fulfillment. Jan’s journey from a 17-year-old entering Special Forces to becoming a seasoned business executive is a testament to the transformative power of overcoming adversity. There are some big...

In this episode, I dive deep into the idea of applying holistic value creation to government and the public sector. Drawing from my experience working with organizations across various sectors both for-profit and nonprofit, I've seen how value can be created faster and more effectively. Now, I’m sharing how these principles can, and should, be applied to running a country. Here’s what I’ll co...

In this episode, I sit down with my good friend Gary Arnold, a seasoned leader with over two decades of experience in startups and Fortune 500 companies including Paypal and GoDaddy. Gary discusses the critical importance of creating value for all stakeholders, customers, investors, employees, and the broader ecosystem.  Our conversation also dives into the nuances of value creation, the differenc...

I want to talk about performance reviews in this episode, but not the traditional kind you're probably used to. I'm talking about a concept I call "performance snapshots," which I believe is a far superior approach. Traditional performance reviews often leave both leaders and team members frustrated and misaligned. The process can be cumbersome, unclear, and doesn't always...

In this episode, I sat down with Shawn French, author of "Unstoppable: The High-Performance Mindset" and host of "The Determined Society" podcast. Shawn shares his journey from battling limiting beliefs and negative self-talk to becoming a successful sales professional and coach. We delve into the power of mindset, the importance of taking action, and the value of authenticity...

Hi, I’m Lee Benson. In this episode, I’ll guide you through CEO development and value creation, focusing on how to build a successful business. I break down holistic value creation into three key areas: material, emotional, and spiritual value. Mastering these elements can unlock intrinsic motivation and drive unparalleled growth in your organization. Drawing from decades of experience and multipl...

Legendary hotelier Horst Schulze joins Lee Benson to discuss his decades of experience creating exceptional customer service and building high-performing teams. Schulze shares his insights on leadership, culture, and the importance of providing value to both customers and employees. Key Takeaways: Don't just hire employees, invite them to join your dream. Horst emphasizes the importance of gi...

Welcome to "Show Your Value with Lee Benson." In this episode, Lee chats with Erik Allebest, co-founder of chess.com. Erik shares his journey from learning chess as a child to building one of the most successful online chess platforms in the world. What You'll Learn: - Culture and Retention: A positive work environment is key to retaining employees. Treat people like humans, not res...

Lee Benson reveals the essence of leadership: creating value through your team. He stresses the need for leaders to consistently guide their teams to align with the business model, product value, and culture. You'll Learn: - Understand the Business Model: Know how your organization makes money, including pricing and expenses. - Value of Products and Services: Continuously improve and understa...

Welcome to another episode of the Show Your Value podcast. This week, I’m joined by the dynamic Bruce Cardenas to discuss the limitless potential for entrepreneurship at any stage of life. Bruce shares his inspiring journey from being in the Marine Corps, then a dedicated police officer, and ultimately, to a successful entrepreneur and executive at Quest Nutrition. This was one of the most remarka...

In this episode, I dive into what value creation is all about. We'll explore how it can transform lives by balancing material success, emotional well-being, and spiritual connectedness.  I'll share my framework for understanding and applying value creation in both personal and professional contexts. What We Unpack: Introduction to Value Creation: - The inspiration behind the podcast and...

This week, we dive into the world of sales with our special guest, Glenn Poulos, author of "Never Sit in the Lobby: 57 Winning Sales Factors.” When we reframe how we see sales as a value-added to others, we completely change the game. In this episode, Glenn shares insights from his extensive sales career, exploring the nuances of building strong client relationships, the importance of first i...

Today, we’re joined by Jim Keyes. Jim is the former CEO of 7-Eleven and Blockbuster, who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in entrepreneurship and leadership. In this episode, Jim delves into the transformative power of education, the importance of lifelong learning, and the crucial role of technology in reshaping our future. He shares his unique insights on how education is not just abo...

Today, I’m joined by Sterling Hawkins. Sterling is an author, investor, entrepreneur, keynote speaker, and founder of the #NoMatterWhat Movement.  Sterling shares his journey from the highs of a multi-billion dollar startup to the lows of bankruptcy and personal collapse, and how he emerged stronger by embracing discomfort.  This is a hyper-tactical conversation about how-to navigate any low point...

Jeffrey Hayzlett is a global business celebrity, prime-time television host, best-selling author, and former Fortune 100 CMO. In this value-packed episode, Jeffery shares his journey from the stages with legends like Zig Ziglar and Stephen Covey to transforming companies with a values-first approach. 🔑 What You’ll Learn: - Holistic Approach: Discover how balancing business, spirituality, friends,...

In this episode of the Show Your Value Podcast, I’m joined by Ken Coleman, a renowned speaker, radio host, and career expert who works with Ramsey Solution.  Today we discuss the importance of embracing struggle, fostering virtuous leadership, and the role of preparation in achieving success. Ken shares his journey from aspiring politician to influential broadcaster and author, highlighting the va...

In this episode, we sit down with Fran Maier, a serial entrepreneur and super founder with over 25 years of experience. Fran's remarkable journey includes co-founding Match.com, pioneering the privacy compliance tech company TrustArc, and leading BabyQuip, the number one global baby gear rental brand. Join us as we delve into Fran's insights on entrepreneurship, the challenges women foun...

In this episode, we dive deep into the psychology of courage, the impact of dissent, and the art of value creation with Todd Kashdan. Todd Kashdan is a professor of psychology at George Mason University and an expert on well-being, psychological strengths, and social relationships. He has authored five influential books, including "The Art of Insubordination," and his research has been f...

Today I’m joined by Robert Glazer, founder of Acceleration Partners. Robert shares his expertise on working smarter rather than harder, criticizing the glorification of excessive work hours and highlighting the importance of the 80/20 rule. He discusses how to focus on the tasks and customers that matter most, aligning personal and organizational goals with core values, and achieving sustainable g...

In this episode, I’m joined by Jennifer McCollum, CEO of Catalyst and an influential leader dedicated to advancing women and promoting inclusivity in the workplace. Jennifer shares her insights on leadership, the challenges women face in their professional journeys, and her new book, "In Her Own Voice: A Woman's Rise to CEO.” About Jennifer McCollum: Jennifer McCollum is an accomplished...

In today’s episode, I’m joined by seasoned entrepreneur and business coach, Robin Waite. We talk about the essentials of starting and scaling a business in 2024. Robin highlights the simplicity of entrepreneurship when driven by genuine passion and strategic thinking, debunking common myths we hear about the necessity of extensive capital and coaching. Robin sees entrepreneurship as a path for nea...

I’m joined by Michael Watkins, a renowned expert in leadership transitions and author of the bestseller The First 90 Days. Michael, who was recently inducted into the Thinkers 50 Management Hall of Fame, shares invaluable insights drawn from his decades of aiding leaders in effectively assuming new roles and driving organizational change. This episode is packed with wisdom for entrepreneurs seekin...

Michael J. McFall is the co-founder and co-CEO of BIGGBY® COFFEE, a leading coffee franchise in the United States. With a career path that advanced from being a barista to a coffee titan, Michael exemplifies the power of hard work and hands-on experience. His leadership philosophy prioritizes people and purpose over profits (a familiar theme with great leaders we’ve seen on the show) reflecting hi...