HRDQ-U In Review

Say goodbye to eye-roll-worthy icebreakers. In this episode of the HRDQ-U In Review Podcast, host Sarah sits down with Lenn Millbower — the Mouse Man™, Learnertainment® trainer, and former Walt Disney World training team member — to unpack the highlights from his popular webinar, 25+ Training Activity Ideas to Beat the Summer Blues. Lenn shares why most training activities fall flat (hint: it's not the activity itself, it's where and how you use it), and how trainers can design experiences that learners actually want to engage with — even when the sun is shining and everyone's mentally halfway out the door. In this episode, you'll learn: Why icebreakers create resistance — and why Lenn calls them "ice melters" instead The Disney leadership philosophy that shaped his entire approach to training design The four "E-z" placement spots — Engage, Explain, Explore, and Embrace — and why putting the right activity in the right spot makes all the difference How to open a program with a strong content hook that pulls learners in before you've said a single instructional word The "New Door" activity you can literally use next week Why orientation programs are broken — and what they should actually be about The one thing Lenn wants every trainer to ask themselves before their next session Whether you attended the live webinar or are discovering Lenn's work for the first time, this episode is packed with creative, practical ideas you can bring back to your training room right away. 🎧 Watch the full webinar recording at HRDQU.com — available exclusively for HRDQ-U members.

In this episode of the HRDQ-U In Review podcast, host Sarah welcomes leadership expert Ryan Gottfredson to talk about his recent webinar, Break Through Barriers with a Vertical Development Coaching Exercise. Ryan shares insights from his research in organizational behavior and his mission to help leaders grow from the inside out, focusing on mindset, emotional intelligence, and the being side of leadership. Ryan explains the difference between horizontal development (skills, knowledge) and vertical development (how we make meaning), and why 95% of leadership programs focus on the wrong one. He walks through a powerful coaching exercise that helps leaders uncover hidden fears and self-protective mindsets that block growth—like fear of failure, control issues, or people-pleasing tendencies. Through real-world stories and examples, Ryan illustrates how vertical development can be a transformational process that helps leaders lead with more authenticity, presence, and impact. Whether you're an executive, team leader, or coach, this episode offers a deeper understanding of what it means to evolve as a leader. Listeners will walk away with tools and insights to reframe limiting beliefs and become more grounded, empowered versions of themselves. Special Offer Want to help your people get unstuck—or unlock their full potential? Whether you're looking to move struggling employees forward or help good leaders become truly great, the key is vertical development—upgrading their internal operating system. We specialize in helping individuals and teams elevate how they think, relate, and lead. As a special offer for HRDQ-U participants, you’ll receive 50% off a workshop or coaching package designed to catalyze transformational growth. Just mention you attended the HRDQ-U session when you reach out! Calendly link: https://calendly.com/ryangottfredson/workwithryan Chapters [00:00] Introduction – Meet Ryan Gottfredson and the HRDQ-U Podcast[00:39] Ryan’s Background in Organizational Behavior and Leadership Research[02:22] What Is Vertical Development and Why It Matters[04:16] The Coaching Exercise – Uncovering Mental Blocks[07:11] Fixed vs. Growth Mindsets in Leadership[09:33] Why Mindsets Are the Body’s Internal Operating System[11:18] Personal Examples of Fear-Based Behaviors[14:42] Executive Story: Letting Go of a Prevention Mindset[17:11] Why Leaders Resist Deeper Development[21:00] Resources to Explore Vertical Development[22:15] Where to Learn More – RyanGoffredson.com Action Items ✅ Take Ryan’s free mindset assessment at RyanGoffredson.com✅ Try the coaching exercise from the webinar to identify limiting beliefs✅ Read Immunity to Change by Robert Kegan and Lisa Lahey✅ Reflect on your own internal operating system—what’s holding you back?✅ Watch the full webinar replay on HRDQ-U for more insights 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Follow us on your favorite podcast app and leave a 5-star review to help others discover HRDQ-U In Review! Episode Sponsors: HRDQ-U: Unlock your potential with HRDQ-U memberships! Gain exclusive access to top-tier training resources, webinars, and tools that elevate your team's performance. Use code HRDQUSAVE10 at checkout for 10% off your first year of your annual membership. Visit hrdqu.com to learn more and join the HRDQU community. HRDQ: Providers of research based, soft skills, training resources since 1977. Assessments, online learning, experiential hands-on games, customizable course content. Over 200 resources to improve performance, increase job satisfaction, and cultivate essential skills in your organization. Use code HRDQUPOD10 for 10% off your purchase today at hrdqstore.com. Leadership Potential: Leadership Potential collaborates with small to mid-sized HR and business leaders, providing tailored coaching, training, and consultation services to elevate their strategic approach. Explore their "Mastering Difficult Conversations: Developing Confident Communication Skills for Challenging Situati

Have you ever found yourself reacting to a situation and wondering, Why did I respond that way? Chances are a subconscious thinking pattern was at play. In this episode of HRDQ-U In Review, leadership expert Marsha King joins us to explore the concept of pattern thinking—the mental models that shape how we interpret the world, make decisions, and lead others. Drawing from her HRDQ-U webinar, Marsha dives into how these patterns form, why they’re so persistent, and what you can do to change them. You’ll learn how past experiences (even those from childhood) influence your behavior today—and how greater self-awareness can lead to stronger relationships, better leadership, and more intentional choices. Whether you’re a coach, a leader, or simply someone looking to grow, this episode will help you uncover the why behind your choices and start shifting unhelpful patterns. “Behavior can change. You’re not stuck. Understanding your patterns gives you the power to choose something different.” – Marsha King Listen and learn: ✅ What thinking patterns are and how they develop✅ Signs you're stuck in a non-serving mindset✅ How early experiences shape your assumptions and decisions✅ Steps to identify and shift your own patterns✅ Why leaders must create safe environments for feedback✅ The difference between fixed personality and changeable behavior Resources 🎓 Marsha King’s Leadership Coaching Certification Program – University at Buffalo🎥 Watch the webinar: Pattern Thinking – Discover the Why Behind Your Choices 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Follow us on your favorite podcast app and leave a 5-star review to help others discover HRDQ-U In Review! Episode Sponsors: University at Buffalo, School of Management, Center for Leadership and Organizational Effectiveness (CLOE): The University at Buffalo School of Management’s Center for Leadership and Organizational Effectiveness (CLOE) strives to create more effective leaders and organizations by advancing research, education, and outreach in leadership and organizational development. Programs offered by CLOE include a Leadership Coaching Certification Program, an Accelerated Leadership Program, and customized programs. HRDQ-U: Unlock your potential with HRDQ-U memberships! Gain exclusive access to top-tier training resources, webinars, and tools that elevate your team's performance. Use code HRDQUSAVE10 at checkout for 10% off your first year of your annual membership. Visit hrdqu.com to learn more and join the HRDQU community. HRDQ: Providers of research based, soft skills, training resources since 1977. Assessments, online learning, experiential hands-on games, customizable course content. Over 200 resources to improve performance, increase job satisfaction, and cultivate essential skills in your organization. Use code HRDQUPOD10 for 10% off your purchase today at hrdqstore.com. Leadership Potential: Leadership Potential collaborates with small to mid-sized HR and business leaders, providing tailored coaching, training, and consultation services to elevate their strategic approach. Explore their "Mastering Difficult Conversations: Developing Confident Communication Skills for Challenging Situations" course and save 10% with code HRDQU at leadershippotential.teachable.com/p/mastering-difficult-conversations-how-to. Seize this opportunity to refine your skills, transcend obstacles, and propel your career to new heights.

🎙️ In this episode of the HRDQ-U In-Review Podcast, host Sarah welcomes leadership expert and musician Dr. Michael Brenner to explore the CHORDS Model™, a bold new roadmap for emerging leaders. Inspired by his background in music, Dr. Brenner introduces a fresh perspective on leadership development, showing how concepts like harmony and rhythm apply to team dynamics and organizational success. Chapters:[00:00] Introduction – Welcome to the HRDQ-U In-Review Podcast[00:47] Meet Dr. Michael Brenner – Musical roots, leadership expertise, and the birth of CHORDS[01:25] What Is the CHORDS Model™? – Breaking down the six notes: Communication, Harmony, Ownership, Respect, Direction, and Support[03:32] Context in Communication – How clarity and tone shift with the environment[05:00] Leadership in the Age of AI – Adapting human-centered leadership for a tech-driven world[07:14] Practical Applications for Leaders – Spotting a “team out of tune” and realigning effectively[09:20] Key Takeaways from the Webinar – Audience reactions and lessons learned Action Items:✅ Watch the full webinar replay – Strike the Right CHORD: A Bold Roadmap for Emerging Leaders✅ Explore the CHORDS Model™ to enhance your leadership practice✅ Start small – Implement just one “note” this week in your leadership style✅ Share this episode with an emerging leader in your network 📨 Want to connect with Dr. Michael Brenner? Visit https://rightchordleadership.com/ 💬 Questions or feedback? Email us at support@hrdq.com If you enjoyed this episode, follow us on your favorite podcast platform and leave a five-star review to help more leaders discover HRDQ-U In Review. 🎧 Episode Sponsors: HRDQ-U: Unlock your potential with HRDQ-U memberships! Gain exclusive access to top-tier training resources, webinars, and tools that elevate your team's performance. Use code HRDQUSAVE10 at checkout for 10% off your first year of your annual membership. Visit hrdqu.com to learn more and join the HRDQU community. HRDQ: Providers of research based, soft skills, training resources since 1977. Assessments, online learning, experiential hands-on games, customizable course content. Over 200 resources to improve performance, increase job satisfaction, and cultivate essential skills in your organization. Use code HRDQUPOD10 for 10% off your purchase today at hrdqstore.com. Leadership Potential: Leadership Potential collaborates with small to mid-sized HR and business leaders, providing tailored coaching, training, and consultation services to elevate their strategic approach. Explore their "Mastering Difficult Conversations: Developing Confident Communication Skills for Challenging Situations" course and save 10% with code HRDQU at leadershippotential.teachable.com/p/mastering-difficult-conversations-how-to. Seize this opportunity to refine your skills, transcend obstacles, and propel your career to new heights. Torrance Learning: Torrance Learning is a full stack learning services firm supporting workplace learning from strategy to custom design and development all the way through custom software, XAPI deployment and learning analytics. They do things differently. They thrive on adapting to changing needs throughout a project as a way to harness innovation and curiosity for the learner’s benefit. Receive 10% off the xAPI Hands-On Learning & Application – HOLA! Workshop at torrancelearning.com. Mention code HOLA-HRDQ-10 at registration. Learn more here. Ryan Gottfredson: Ignite your leadership journey with Ryan Gottfredson’s Vertical Development Coaching Program tailored for discerning executives. Strive for excellence by enhancing both your talent (DOING side) and character (BEING side). This program empowers you to ascend on your BEING side, fostering more impactful leadership. Immerse yourself in the realms of vertical development and mindsets, unlocking profound self-awareness and refining self-leadership skills. Elevate your ability to nurture and guide your organization a

In this episode, host Sarah sits down with Lenn Millbower to explore the power of learnertainment and Disney-inspired training techniques. With 25 years at Walt Disney World and a background in entertainment, Lenn shares how engaging the limbic system can make training more memorable and effective. From sound oversight to creating harmonious learning environments, Lenn reveals practical tips trainers can use—no comedy skills required! Discover how props, music, and sensory details can transform training without overshadowing learning objectives. 📌 Key Takeaways:✔️ Why entertainment enhances memory retention✔️ Disney’s secrets to immersive learning environments✔️ Simple ways to keep learners engaged Chapters 00:00:01 – Introduction and BackgroundSarah introduced the HRDQU In-Review Podcast and welcomed Lenn Millbower to discuss Showbiz Basics and Disney-inspired training techniques. Lenn shared his journey from childhood entertainer to Disney trainer. 00:02:45 – The Connection Between Entertainment and LearningLenn explained how his experience as a band performer influenced his training approach, highlighting how he learned to manipulate crowd energy through music selection. 00:04:12 – Common Training Mistakes and SolutionsLenn addressed the issue of "icebreaker phobia" and explained how activities should flow naturally within training sessions instead of feeling forced. 00:05:44 – The Power of LearnertainmentLenn discussed the importance of the limbic system in learning and shared how even firefighters engaged positively with creative activities when presented correctly. 00:13:00 – Disney-Inspired Training TechniquesLenn detailed Disney’s approach to creating harmonious environments and how these principles can be applied to training spaces, from sensory elements to room setup. 00:17:59 – Practical Implementation TipsLenn shared practical strategies to make training more engaging, including how to use props effectively and balance entertainment with learning objectives. Tune in for practical leadership insights and strategies to stay flexible and effective in today’s evolving workplace! Resources & Links:Watch the webinar: Show Biz Basics: Learnertainment Infused, Disney-Inspired Techniques for Engaging Trainees More from Lenn: Bundle Discounts on Lenn’s Most Popular Books and Resources Are you enjoying the HRDQ-U In Review Podcast? We invite you to follow us, share with a colleague, and consider leaving a 5-star rating to support our podcast! Episode Sponsors: HRDQ-U: Unlock your potential with HRDQ-U memberships! Gain exclusive access to top-tier training resources, webinars, and tools that elevate your team's performance. Use code HRDQUSAVE10 at checkout for 10% off your first year of your annual membership. That’s Visit hrdqu.com to learn more and join the HRDQU community. HRDQ: Providers of research based, soft skills, training resources since 1977. Assessments, online learning, experiential hands-on games, customizable course content. Over 200 resources to improve performance, increase job satisfaction, and cultivate essential skills in your organization. Use code HRDQUPOD10 for 10% off your purchase today at hrdqstore.com. Leadership Potential: Leadership Potential collaborates with small to mid-sized HR and business leaders, providing tailored coaching, training, and consultation services to elevate their strategic approach. Explore their "Mastering Difficult Conversations: Developing Confident Communication Skills for Challenging Situations" course and save 10% with code HRDQU at leadershippotential.teachable.com/p/mastering-difficult-conversations-how-to. Seize this opportunity to refine your skills, transcend obstacles, and propel your career to new heights. Torrance Learning: Torrance Learning is a full stack learning services firm supporting workplace learning from strategy to custom design and development all the way through custom software, XAPI deployment and learning analytics. They do things

In this episode, Sarah, Learning Events Manager at HRDQ, sits down with leadership expert Kevin Eikenberry to discuss key insights from the upcoming webinar, The Flexible Leader’s Playbook: Leading Effectively Now. With over 30 years of experience working with leaders in 50+ countries, Kevin shares his perspective on AI’s impact on leadership, highlighting two extreme mindsets—those who see AI as revolutionary versus those who resist change—and advocates for a balanced approach. He also introduces the Flexible Leadership Framework, emphasizing three core elements: intention, context, and flexors. Kevin explains why many leaders operate on autopilot and how developing a conscious leadership playbook can enhance adaptability in today’s fast-changing world. Lastly, he identifies a critical gap in leadership development—while training often focuses on skills, mindset and habit formation are frequently overlooked. He explains why sustainable leadership growth requires all three. Episode Highlights: 📌 [00:00:01] Kevin Eikenberry’s leadership background📌 [00:02:12] AI in L&D—navigating the extremes📌 [00:06:23] Why leadership playbooks need an update📌 [00:12:10] The three pillars of Flexible Leadership📌 [00:15:04] Bridging the leadership development gap Tune in for practical leadership insights and strategies to stay flexible and effective in today’s evolving workplace! Resources & Links:Watch the webinar: The Flexible Leader’s Playbook: Leading Effectively Now with Kevin Eikenberry Pre-Order Kevin’s New Book! Flexible Leadership: Navigate Uncertainty and Lead with Confidence – Available March 25, 2025! Become a more flexible leader with a revolutionary approach to applying leadership skills—while staying true to your principles and values. Pre-order now! Are you enjoying the HRDQ-U In Review Podcast? We invite you to follow us, share with a colleague, and consider leaving a 5-star rating to support our podcast! Episode Sponsors: HRDQ-U: Unlock your potential with HRDQ-U memberships! Gain exclusive access to top-tier training resources, webinars, and tools that elevate your team's performance. Use code HRDQUSAVE10 at checkout for 10% off your first year of your annual membership. That’s Visit hrdqu.com to learn more and join the HRDQU community. Leadership Potential: Leadership Potential collaborates with small to mid-sized HR and business leaders, providing tailored coaching, training, and consultation services to elevate their strategic approach. Explore their "Mastering Difficult Conversations: Developing Confident Communication Skills for Challenging Situations" course and save 10% with code HRDQU at leadershippotential.teachable.com/p/mastering-difficult-conversations-how-to. Seize this opportunity to refine your skills, transcend obstacles, and propel your career to new heights. HRDQ: Providers of research based, soft skills, training resources since 1977. Assessments, online learning, experiential hands-on games, customizable course content. Over 200 resources to improve performance, increase job satisfaction, and cultivate essential skills in your organization. Use code HRDQUPOD10 for 10% off your purchase today at hrdqstore.com. Breakthrough Learning: Elevate your team's potential with Breakthrough Learning! Experience transformative thinking through their award-winning products like Friday Night at the ER® and Cauzality®. As the official US store for Metalog® Training Tools, they bring Europe’s top team development resources to you. With 30+ years of excellence, their tools have empowered organizations globally. Mention HRDQ-U for exclusive access to a complimentary seat in our Remote Facilitator Training (a $525 value) with any purchase before April 1, 2024. Unlock success – contact Breakthrough Learning today! Torrance Learning: Torrance Learning is a full stack learning services firm supporting workplace learning from strategy to custom design and development all the way through custom software, XAPI

Today, I’m joined by Dave Vance to explore the key takeaways from our recent webinar, Measurement Simplified: The Key L&D Program and Department Measures (watch the webinar here). If you’re an L&D professional looking to simplify measurement, track the right metrics, and maximize the impact of your training programs, this episode is packed with valuable insights! In this episode, we discuss: ✅ Current trends in L&D measurement – what’s changing in the space?✅ Biggest misconceptions about evaluating training effectiveness✅ Key takeaways from the webinar and how to apply them to your own L&D strategy✅ How to track the right metrics without getting overwhelmed by data✅ Common mistakes organizations make when measuring L&D success (and how to avoid them)✅ Balancing qualitative feedback with quantitative data for a complete picture✅ One simple change you can make today to improve your L&D measurement strategy Resources & Links:Watch the webinar: Measurement Simplified: The Key L&D Program and Department MeasuresWorkshop: Get 10% off Measurement Simplified: Creating an Action Plan for L&D Success with code HRDQU10 Check out the blog: How to Simplify L&D Measurement with TDRP Are you enjoying the HRDQ-U In Review Podcast? We invite you to follow us, share with a colleague, and consider leaving a 5-star rating to support our podcast! Episode Sponsors: HRDQ-U: Unlock your potential with HRDQ-U memberships! Gain exclusive access to top-tier training resources, webinars, and tools that elevate your team's performance. Use code HRDQUSAVE10 at checkout for 10% off your first year of your annual membership. That’s Visit hrdqu.com to learn more and join the HRDQU community. Leadership Potential: Leadership Potential collaborates with small to mid-sized HR and business leaders, providing tailored coaching, training, and consultation services to elevate their strategic approach. Explore their "Mastering Difficult Conversations: Developing Confident Communication Skills for Challenging Situations" course and save 10% with code HRDQU at leadershippotential.teachable.com/p/mastering-difficult-conversations-how-to. Seize this opportunity to refine your skills, transcend obstacles, and propel your career to new heights. HRDQ: Providers of research based, soft skills, training resources since 1977. Assessments, online learning, experiential hands-on games, customizable course content. Over 200 resources to improve performance, increase job satisfaction, and cultivate essential skills in your organization. Use code HRDQUPOD10 for 10% off your purchase today at hrdqstore.com. Breakthrough Learning: Elevate your team's potential with Breakthrough Learning! Experience transformative thinking through their award-winning products like Friday Night at the ER® and Cauzality®. As the official US store for Metalog® Training Tools, they bring Europe’s top team development resources to you. With 30+ years of excellence, their tools have empowered organizations globally. Mention HRDQ-U for exclusive access to a complimentary seat in our Remote Facilitator Training (a $525 value) with any purchase before April 1, 2024. Unlock success – contact Breakthrough Learning today! Torrance Learning: Torrance Learning is a full stack learning services firm supporting workplace learning from strategy to custom design and development all the way through custom software, XAPI deployment and learning analytics. They do things differently. They thrive on adapting to changing needs throughout a project as a way to harness innovation and curiosity for the learner’s benefit. Receive 10% off the xAPI Hands-On Learning & Application – HOLA! Workshop at torrancelearning.com. Mention code HOLA-HRDQ-10 at registration. Learn more here. Ryan Gottfredson: Ignite your leadership journey with Ryan Gottfredson’s Vertical Development Coaching Program tailored for discerning executives. Strive for excellence by enhancing both your ta

Difficult conversations are inevitable—but they don’t have to be unproductive. In this episode, we sit down with Chris Wong to explore strategies for managing tough discussions, avoiding common pitfalls, and ensuring your message is heard. We also dive into highlights from our recent webinar, Mastering Difficult Behaviors in Hard Conversations, where we answered some of the biggest challenges professionals face when navigating conflict. Tune in to learn:✔️ The first step to handling difficult behaviors with confidence✔️ Common mistakes that make tough conversations worse (and how to avoid them)✔️ How to measure whether your approach was successful✔️ What to do when someone pushes back or gets defensive✔️ The latest insights on workplace communication and leadership Listen now and take control of your next tough conversation! Resources & Links:Watch the webinar: Mastering Difficult Behaviors in Hard ConversationsGet Chris’s course: Mastering Difficult Conversions use code HRDQU for 10% off! Are you enjoying the HRDQ-U In Review Podcast? We invite you to follow us, share with a colleague, and consider leaving a 5-star rating to support our podcast! Episode Sponsors: Leadership Potential: Leadership Potential collaborates with small to mid-sized HR and business leaders, providing tailored coaching, training, and consultation services to elevate their strategic approach. Explore their "Mastering Difficult Conversations: Developing Confident Communication Skills for Challenging Situations" course and save 10% with code HRDQU at leadershippotential.teachable.com/p/mastering-difficult-conversations-how-to. Seize this opportunity to refine your skills, transcend obstacles, and propel your career to new heights. HRDQ-U: Unlock your potential with HRDQ-U memberships! Gain exclusive access to top-tier training resources, webinars, and tools that elevate your team's performance. Use code HRDQUBOOST10 at checkout for 10% off your first year of your annual membership. That’s Visit hrdqu.com to learn more and join the HRDQU community. HRDQ: Providers of research based, soft skills, training resources since 1977. Assessments, online learning, experiential hands-on games, customizable course content. Over 200 resources to improve performance, increase job satisfaction, and cultivate essential skills in your organization. Use code HRDQUPOD10 for 10% off your purchase today at hrdqstore.com. Breakthrough Learning: Elevate your team's potential with Breakthrough Learning! Experience transformative thinking through their award-winning products like Friday Night at the ER® and Cauzality®. As the official US store for Metalog® Training Tools, they bring Europe’s top team development resources to you. With 30+ years of excellence, their tools have empowered organizations globally. Mention HRDQ-U for exclusive access to a complimentary seat in our Remote Facilitator Training (a $525 value) with any purchase before April 1, 2024. Unlock success – contact Breakthrough Learning today! Torrance Learning: Torrance Learning is a full stack learning services firm supporting workplace learning from strategy to custom design and development all the way through custom software, XAPI deployment and learning analytics. They do things differently. They thrive on adapting to changing needs throughout a project as a way to harness innovation and curiosity for the learner’s benefit. Receive 10% off the xAPI Hands-On Learning & Application – HOLA! Workshop at torrancelearning.com. Mention code HOLA-HRDQ-10 at registration. Learn more here. Ryan Gottfredson: Ignite your leadership journey with Ryan Gottfredson’s Vertical Development Coaching Program tailored for discerning executives. Strive for excellence by enhancing both your talent (DOING side) and character (BEING side). This program empowers you to ascend on your BEING side, fostering more impactful leadership. Immerse yourself in the realms of vertical development and mindsets, unlocking