Episodes

On this episode, Jon and the team discuss how to take responsibility for your own training when it’s not being offered by your company. They provide ideas for affordable training resources and offer guidance on how to approach a conversation when requesting skills training. Listen to our episode on becoming the kind of employee every leader wants to promote: [Insert Link Here] Upcoming Events: https://www.jonharrisonvip.com/events Statistically, every year about 70% of people are disengaged a...

The team discusses several ways that employees can escape the bare minimum mindset and lead themselves to a promotion. They also share some of the advice they give their own kids when teaching them to go the extra mile at work. For more information about the 7 Characteristics of a Star Training, email melissa@jonharrisonvip.com Upcoming Events: https://www.jonharrisonvip.com/events Statistically, every year about 70% of people are disengaged at work! Of course, that's bad for business, but it...

Jon, Madeline, Melissa, and Jason discuss how to hold people accountable in a way that improves and doesn't destroy company morale. They share insights and personal stories about how getting awkward early in these conversations can lead to more positive results. Upcoming Events: https://www.jonharrisonvip.com/events Statistically, every year, about 70% of people are disengaged at work! Of course, that's bad for business, but it also spills over into the home lives of employees. Through our emp...

In this episode of the Jon Harrison Podcast, we’re joined by Saundra Cooksey, Director of Human Resources at Water Tech, to dive into why so many companies miss the mark on onboarding—and how to fix it. Saundra shares how Water Tech’s intentional approach, from day-one culture introductions to 90-day mentoring and check-ins, has helped them maintain an incredible 1% turnover rate. She explains why onboarding should be an ongoing experience—not just a single-day orientation. Upcoming Events: htt...

In this episode of the Jon Harrison podcast, Jon, Madeline, Melissa, and Christy talk about the importance of assuming positive intent when trying to understand the decisions that your leadership makes. It’s easy to build a false narrative that your boss is “out to get you” but by taking a step back, being open to trying new things, and asking clarifying questions, it's easier to understand where they're coming from. Upcoming Events: https://www.jonharrisonvip.com/events Statistically every ye...

In this episode of the Jon Harrison podcast, Jon, Madeline, Melissa, and Christy draw from personal experience to discuss the importance of valuing diversity in career background when making decisions. They also provide practical guidance on how to make sure everyone feels empowered to contribute in meetings. Upcoming Events: https://www.jonharrisonvip.com/events Statistically every year about 70% of people are disengaged at work! Of course, that's bad for business, but it also spills over int...

In this episode of the Jon Harrison podcast, Jon, Madeline, Melissa, and Christy discuss why diversity in the workplace isn’t something you should just do to be compliant; it’s a key way to make better decisions as an organization. The team also provides some insight as to how to best gather diverse perspectives and what to expect when different perspectives come into conflict. Upcoming Events: https://www.jonharrisonvip.com/events Statistically every year about 70% of people are disengaged at...

In this episode of the Jon Harrison podcast, Jon, Madeline, Melissa, and Christy discuss the problem that is overworking. They discuss how to recognize overworking and how it's different from putting in good hard work and effort. They also discuss the importance of recognizing and discussing when you see overworking in one of your employees. Upcoming Events: https://www.jonharrisonvip.com/events Statistically every year about 70% of people are disengaged at work! Of course, that's bad for busi...

In this episode, Jon, Christy, Melissa, and Madelyn unpack the reasons behind employee disengagement—often labeled as “quiet quitting”—and what leaders can do to stop it before it becomes burnout or turnover. They explore common root causes like inconsistent accountability, a lack of support or recognition, and unclear expectations. You’ll also hear practical strategies for staying engaged, even when the work environment isn’t ideal. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or just starting out, thi...

In this episode of the Jon Harrison podcast we’re excited to share some big updates from the team! As our work and mission continue to grow, so does our team—and we’re thrilled to introduce you to the newest member of team!And as we welcome a new face, we also take time to celebrate and send off two team members who are stepping into new chapters. Upcoming Events: https://www.jonharrisonvip.com/events Statistically every year about 70% of people are disengaged at work! Of course, that's bad fo...

We all wish we could give the best and brightest of our employees a raise, but that's not always possible. On this episode of the Jon Harrison podcast, we discuss ways to be an encouragement to our employees and coworkers, promoting a work environment where people thrive. We find that this is often just as important, if not more so, to employee satisfaction as salary. Blog Post: https://www.jonharrisonvip.com/why-money-isnt-the-best-motivator Upcoming Events: https://www.jonharrisonvip.com/even...

In this episode of the Jon Harrison Podcast, we’re joined by Saundra Cooksey, Director of HR at Water Tech Inc., for a powerful conversation about hiring with intention and the early signs that a new hire might not be the right fit. With over 30 years of experience in the field, Saundra shares how her team maintains a 1% turnover rate by making their workplace a true “work home”—a culture built on respect, high expectations, and meaningful onboarding. Upcoming Events: https://www.jonharrisonvip...

In this episode, we’re introducing someone new to the team—our intern Andrew—and diving into a bigger conversation about how data can truly impact workplace culture. From paper surveys to streamlining systems, we’ve come a long way in how we collect and use feedback. Andrew brings a fresh set of eyes to our processes, helping us refine the way we serve clients through employee surveys and upward feedback. We talk about the importance of using data not just for the sake of numbers, but to actuall...

What really sets great leaders apart—and why do some people fall short, even with the best of intentions? In this episode, we’re joined by special guest Caleb Osborne, a longtime ambassador of the VIP Way, who brings years of leadership experience. Alongside Jon, Melissa, Jason and Madeline, Caleb unpacks what he's seen in the best (and worst) leaders throughout his career. You’ll hear honest reflections on why leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room or checking boxes for pr...

What if your best recruiters aren’t in HR? In this episode, Jon, Melissa, and Madeline unpack a fresh perspective on recruiting—looking beyond the formal hiring process. Whether someone’s having a great day or a tough week, what they say about work matters. Because when a company’s culture is off, word spreads—and potential star employees start running the other way. Upcoming Events: https://www.jonharrisonvip.com/events Statistically every year about 70% of people are disengaged at work! Of c...

Ever walked into a room and said the wrong thing at the wrong time? We’ve all been there. In this episode, Jon, Madeline, and Melissa unpack what it really means to “read the room” and why it matters so much at work—and at home. Upcoming Events: https://www.jonharrisonvip.com/events Statistically every year about 70% of people are disengaged at work! Of course, that's bad for business, but it also spills over into the home lives of employees. Through our employee training, leadership training,...

In this episode, Jon, Melissa, and Madeline are joined by special guest Brandon Hall to talk about a topic that often gets misunderstood: recognition. It’s easy to equate recognition with gift cards, plaques, or coffee mug giveaways—but real recognition goes far deeper. We unpack what it looks like to truly recognize the humanity of the people you work with—beyond their job titles and task lists. Whether you're a formal leader or a team member trying to foster a stronger culture, this conversa...

In today’s quick episode, Madeline, Jason, and Melissa share a behind-the-scenes look at our VIP Leader Roundtables—a free, virtual follow-up offered to anyone who’s attended a VIP Leadership session. These meaningful conversations give leaders across industries a chance to reconnect, ask questions, and learn from each other in a judgment-free space. If you’ve ever walked away from a training thinking, “Now what?”—this is the perfect next step. Upcoming Roundtable Dates (sign up here): https:/...

On today’s episode, Madeline, Jason, and Melissa dig into what it really means to "peel back the onion" at work—and why doing it can prevent future heartache. Getting to know your coworkers beyond the surface isn't just a “nice to do”—it’s crucial for building trust, engagement, and loyalty. We talk about: Why taking time to understand people's stressors, strengths, and communication styles matters The hidden consequences of staying surface-level with your team Practical ways to "peel back t...

Feedback conversations can be one of the most challenging yet rewarding parts of leadership. In this episode, Madeline, Melissa, and special guests Christy Loggins and Robbie Robinson tackle the complexities of delivering feedback effectively. Whether it's navigating the discomfort of critiquing a close-knit team or ensuring feedback is timely and actionable, they provide practical strategies to approach these conversations with confidence. Tune in to learn how feedback can align with core value...

In this special episode of the Jon Harrison Podcast, we’re joined by Christy Loggins of Central Arkansas Water and Robbie Robinson from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. Together, we explore the complexities of respectful conversations, especially when faced with opposing viewpoints. With their diverse backgrounds in leadership and HR, Christy and Robbie share candid experiences, practical strategies, and lessons learned from handling challenging conversations both at work...

Difficult conversations can leave a lingering awkwardness, even when the discussion went as planned. How do you navigate the days that follow? In this episode, the Jon Harrison Team share insights and practical advice on handling post-conversation tension, whether it’s with a co-worker, a spouse, or even a teenager. They discuss strategies like maintaining normalcy, ensuring confidentiality, and offering space for the other person to process. Upcoming Events: https://www.jonharrisonvip.com/even...

Navigating relationships at work can be tricky, especially when it comes to setting boundaries. In this episode, the team explores questions like: Can leaders be friends with their employees? Should you go out with co-workers after hours? What about following each other on social media? We dive into real-life scenarios. Whether you're a leader or a peer, this episode will help you reflect on where to draw the line. Upcoming Events: https://www.jonharrisonvip.com/events Statistically every year...

Using the VIP Way analogy of passion as "water in your bottle," the Jon Harrison Team explores how daily stressors and interactions can deplete your passion, leaving little left for your family and community at the end of the day. The discussion covers practical strategies for identifying and addressing these challenges, including early and honest conversations, setting clear boundaries, and showing care for colleagues. Upcoming Events: https://www.jonharrisonvip.com/events Statistically ever...