"When you're appealing to everybody, you're appealing to nobody. You really have to know who you are and differentiate yourself. Home in on that thing that people are going to remember."

Episode Highlights

00:00 Returned to business world after offering advice.

05:06 Importance of mentoring and paying it forward.

09:57 Focus on client needs, not credentials.

10:32 Enthusiasm attracts people. Focus on them and provide value.

15:46 Value in encouragement and diverse experiences.

17:44 Grateful for learning to ask questions, listen, and engage with others.

23:33 Appreciation for sponsorship and ongoing friendship.

26:13 Connect with Dan at dancockerell.com

Connect with Dan:

www.dancockerell.com

About Dan - https://dancockerell.com/about/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dancockerell/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dancockerell/

Facebook - www.facebook.com/dancockerellspeaker

The Final Episode

"When you're appealing to everybody, you're appealing to nobody. You really have to know who you are and differentiate yourself. Home in on that thing that people are going to remember."

After 5.5 years and 285 episodes, it's time to say goodbye to the Come Rain or Shine podcast. It's been an incredible ride, filled with valuable lessons and heartfelt connections. I want to express my deep gratitude for everyone who tuned in, engaged with the content, and contributed to the show's success. Thank you for being a part of this journey.

Hosting this podcast has been an adventure that brought on many unanticipated lessons and new friendships. It would take too long to capture them all, so here are three big lessons can be applied to your own journey:

• Momentum and Differentiation: Starting something new, whether it's a business venture or a creative project, can be daunting. Building momentum and finding ways to differentiate yourself from others in your industry are essential steps for success.
• The Power of Enthusiasm and Providing Value: Enthusiasm is a powerful differentiator, and providing value before expecting something in return can help you build lasting relationships and drive business growth.
• Interviewing and Curiosity: Hosting the podcast taught me the importance of asking thoughtful questions, actively listening, and showing genuine curiosity in others' stories. These skills have translated into valuable personal and professional relationships.

As I bid farewell to the podcast, I'm excited to announce that I will continue sharing insights and valuable content through a monthly article. You can sign up for this on my website. I'd love to stay connected with all of you.

Thank you to Jamie and JJ Eubanks and the entire Magical Vacation Planner team for their incredible support. It's been an honor to work with them and showcase their exceptional service.

It's been a privilege to share this leadership journey with all of you. The lessons and stories will stay with me as I transition to my new role at Torrens University in Australia. This chapter of life may have me heading in a new direction, but the impact and memories created with the Come Rain or Shine podcast will remain cherished and appreciated.

One of my favorite customer service books is from legendary author and speaker Bob Farrell. In his book, ‘Give ‘Em the Pickle’, he discusses how to improve client satisfaction and retention through three words, “I’ll be back.”

However, as Jody and I explain in this episode, to earn this phrase, one should not rely on the protocol alone. Contrarily, if you want to go above and beyond in our affairs, dare to fuse selfless service with common sense.

But Dan? How do we equip our employees to do this? The answer is simple: Have a framework to empower from. Give your team the confidence to make critical decisions and proactively communicate expectations.

By doing this, you can ensure your organization will give clients a reason to tell positive stories about you.

Resources:

Order the Book: Give 'Em the Pickle

Connect with Dan:

www.dancockerell.com

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/dancockerell/

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/dancockerell/

Facebook – www.facebook.com/dancockerellspeaker

 

[Rebroadcast of one of Dan's favorite episodes.]

“No matter what you’ve done in your life, career and what you’ve been involved with, you’re going to have hard times. And moving on is really the only option you have. You get up and keep moving forward.”

In this episode of Come Rain or Shine, special guests, Clint Hill, and Lisa McCubbin join the show to discuss the history of President John F. Kennedy and Former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy from their perspective.

A former U.S. Secret Service agent who served under five presidents from Dwight D. Eisenhower to Gerald Ford, Clint is best known for courageously stepping into the presidential motorcade immediately following President Kennedy’s assassination. Having retired from the U.S. Secret Service in 1975, Clint swore he would never write a book; however, after meeting Lisa decades later during her writing of The Kennedy Detail, he changed his mind. 

Years later, Clint and Lisa have written three memories detailing a career like no other: Mrs. Kennedy and Me became a #1 New York Times bestseller, followed by Five Days in November and Five Presidents: My Extraordinary Journey with Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, and Ford. 

Due to her books and connection with Clint, Lisa has interviewed hundreds of former and current agents. As noted in her writings, Lisa carries a deep respect for all who’ve sacrificed to protect the Office of the President. With no signs of stopping, Clint hopes to continue spreading the legacy of whom he served with Lisa helping pen his voice. 

Resources: 

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Travels-Mrs-Kennedy-Clint-Hill/dp/1982181117 

Website:

Connect with Dan:

www.dancockerell.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dancockerell/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dancockerell/

Facebook - www.facebook.com/dancockerellspeaker

“Just because the information is at our fingertips doesn't mean we're always leveraging it to actually get stuff done and do things."

In today's fast-paced world, information is readily accessible, yet many of us struggle to leverage it effectively. We often find ourselves consuming content for entertainment purposes rather than using it to fuel personal growth and development. It’s easy to forget the power of new perspectives and information. Developing a new point of view could transform the way we approach new ideas and expand our knowledge. You just need to know what to do once you access the information.

It all starts with identifying the areas you want to improve in. Is there a specific topic or skill you've been meaning to work on? AI? Project management? Strategy? Choose your focus and gather knowledge. Hit the books, read articles, listen to podcasts, and watch videos on your chosen topic. Immerse yourself in the wealth of information available to you. But don't just consume passively—take notes and highlight key insights for future reference.

Make sure to expand the sources you gain information from. Don't rely on one book or one expert. Seek a variety of perspectives and opinions. Google the best books, search for credible articles, and tap into online courses. The more sources you explore, the more well-rounded your understanding will be.

As you learn and gain new perspectives it is important to capture everything. Whether you use a digital note-taking app or a physical notebook, create a dedicated space to collect your learnings. Jot down quotes, examples, and references that resonate with you. This way, you'll have a bank of knowledge to draw upon when needed.

Once you develop a new perspective, apply what you've learned. Use your newfound knowledge to shape your point of view and problem-solving approach. Don't just let it gather dust—put it to work. Share your perspective in conversations, presentations, or even in written content like articles or blog posts.

Developing a new point of view is an ongoing process. Stay curious and keep seeking knowledge. As Zig Ziglar once said, "You don't have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great." Keep exploring and growing.

Episode Highlights

02:09 Self-education and developing expertise, with a focus on AI.

04:34 Leverage multiple sources of expertise for continued growth.

08:44 Books help expand perspective on information and current events.

10:33 Storytelling in books stays within your subconscious.

15:39 Improve skills by building your own knowledge bank.

16:15 Importance of capturing and referencing information.

Connect with Dan:

www.dancockerell.com

About Dan - https://dancockerell.com/about/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dancockerell/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dancockerell/

Facebook - www.facebook.com/dancockerellspeaker

 

"You can't always control what happens to you, but you can control how you respond to it and how you kind of take it in, and that's all on you."

Episode Highlights

02:26 Courage and discipline are key to growth.

04:51 Change mindset, find motivation, or make change.

07:43 Attitude and choices determine control and confidence.

12:52 Start doing, make it real, change.

13:24 Transition from sedentary to active lifestyle.

Connect with Dan:

www.dancockerell.com

About Dan - https://dancockerell.com/about/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dancockerell/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dancockerell/

Facebook - www.facebook.com/dancockerellspeaker

What is Holding You Back?

Any time someone tells me they wish something was different in their life I ask, “what is holding you back?” Is it fear, self-doubt, or the comfort of familiarity? During this episode, Jody and I talk about taking ownership and being proactive in our lives. We all have worries, concerns, and dreams, and too often often we let fear hold us back from taking action. It is imperative that we break free from the limitations we impose on ourselves.

There are many common roadblocks: job dissatisfaction, wanting to lose weight, fears of public speaking, or concerns about children's safety. We can all relate. The first step in overcoming your unique barriers is acknowledging their existence. Once we recognize what is holding us back, we have the power to make a change. No matter how small of a change you start with, it can have a significant impact in the long run.

As I reflect on my own experiences, I’ve realized the importance of facing challenges head-on. Having courage and discipline to tackle what's holding you back can lead to great things, but it takes sacrifice. My father, Lee, often says, "Get on it!" Don't let problems control you. Take that first step, no matter how small, and soon you'll gain momentum and start moving in the right direction. Even if the situation worsens, you have control and can find a solution.

We often know what's holding us back but choose to walk around with it, avoiding the necessary actions. It's time to break free from that pattern. Take responsibility for your life. Blaming external factors leaves us feeling powerless. Recognizing that we have choices and can influence outcomes is liberating.

Changing habits and routines is challenging, but essential. It may be tough initially, but as you gain control over your choices, your self-confidence will soar. Admit what's holding you back, take responsibility, and start small. Every action counts. Don't deny yourself the joy and growth that comes from overcoming challenges. Listen to this episode for more on ways Jody and I have broken habits so those barriers no longer hold us back.

 

“You create your own luck.' When you engage in conversations with strangers, you never know what it may turn into - a pleasant conversation, a business opportunity, or even a friendship."

Episode Highlights

01:27 Pay attention to people for effective leadership, communication, and relationship building.

04:43 Nonverbals are a powerful way to communicate, including in unintended ways

06:48 Interactions can lead to unexpected opportunities and relationship

11:29 Listening with intent helps uncover new connections and opportunities.

12:40 Being present earns respect.

17:43 Eliminating distractions for focused quality time with family and at work.

Connect with Dan:

www.dancockerell.com

About Dan - https://dancockerell.com/about/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dancockerell/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dancockerell/

Facebook - www.facebook.com/dancockerellspeaker

Pay Attention to the Person In Front of You

Paying attention is a powerful tool in your leadership toolkit. It shows respect, builds trust, and opens doors to unexpected opportunities. It's a behavior that can make a significant difference in leadership and relationship-building. Being present and fully focused on the person in front of you is key.

Being present and engaging with the people around me is something I actively work on, even during his travels. Whether it's the organizer of the event or a stranger at a dinner. Take a moment to acknowledge someone, ask questions, listen, and pay attention.

If you want to effectively pay attention, there a few tactics that help avoid distraction.

1. Create an environment where you can fully engage without interruptions.
2. Ask questions. The more you inquire, the deeper the connection becomes.
3. Be genuinely interested. Be eager to learn about the people you interact with and their experiences.
4. Reset when entering a room. Focus on the present moment, leaving behind any distractions from the past.

The power of paying attention goes beyond just building relationships. It contributes to trust, rapport, and, ultimately, success. When leaders prioritize paying attention, it creates an environment where people feel valued and connected. I remember once walking with Bob Iger, where Bob's undivided attention made me feel like the most important person in the world. Leaders who pay attention create powerful connections.

Remember that paying attention is not limited to personal relationships. It also applies to the workplace. Distractions can hinder collaboration and productivity. Set aside time for focused conversations with teammates, leaving devices and distractions behind.

Take a moment to consciously practice these tactics and see the impact it has on your relationships, both at work and in your personal life. Embrace the power of paying attention and watch your relationships and success grow.

“Sometimes I look around and say, why am I in this situation? It makes me take a step back to say, “ What did you do to get yourself in this situation? What could you have done to not be in this situation?” Episode Highlights

[00:03:58] Take responsibility for hiring, then address issues or remove employees..

[00:10:54] Ownership mindset leads to remarkable acts of responsibility and trust-building..

[00:14:44]  Leaders encourage employees to take risks and assume responsibility for the guest experience

[00:16:47] Take initiative to improve customer experience.

[00:19:13] Embrace the things that make you unique and stand out confidently.

Connect with Dan:

www.dancockerell.com

About Dan - https://dancockerell.com/about/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dancockerell/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dancockerell/

Facebook - www.facebook.com/dancockerellspeaker

Take Responsibility

Taking responsibility is the key to success, both in business and in life. Every outcome can be traced back to one's decisions, and it's crucial to own up to it, no matter how tough it may be. Organizations with top-notch service and ownership, like Disney and Marriott, can transform ordinary experiences into extraordinary ones

Creating a culture where people take responsibility impacts much more than just the guest experience. It's about teamwork and how employees can elevate the customer experience by going the extra mile and owning up to the company's standard.

Leaders can foster a culture of ownership and empower their team to take responsibility. It's all about inspiring and guiding others to make decisions that align with the organization's values and goals. A fantastic book full of wisdom on ownership and leadership is "Extreme Ownership" by Jocko Wieneck. There is no doubt that it will ignite your passion for unlocking your full potential as a leader.

Make sure to listen to this episode of "Come Rain or Shine" to discover the magic of extreme ownership and its potential to transform your business. It's not just a podcast; it's a blueprint for success. 

“We’re just so busy and distracted, things come in and out. We just don't take time to say, wow, that's a nice thing. I'm creating a little memory for myself right now." – Dan Cockerell

Episode Highlights

[00:02:19] Saying yes to opportunities and changing environments can be refreshing and inspiring.

[00:05:07] Meditation is challenging but worthwhile. Be present and appreciate the little things.

[00:09:15] Outdoor trip to Bryce Canyon. Refreshing and inspiring.

[00:11:14] Effective meetings occur when they are held while doing related tasks.

Connect with Dan:

www.dancockerell.com

About Dan - https://dancockerell.com/about/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dancockerell/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dancockerell/

Facebook - www.facebook.com/dancockerellspeaker

Change Your Environment to Change Your Mindset 

There come times in life when we feel stuck in a rut, lack energy, or struggle to see things from a new perspective. We've all been there. One way to break free from these patterns is to change your environment. Jody and I took the time to talk about our recent hiking trip to Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park. Stepping out of our regular routines and immersing ourselves in nature had a profound impact on our mindset.

Getting away from your usual surroundings allow you to disconnect and gain a fresh perspective. The change in environment, combined with the opportunity to have unstructured time, ignites creativity and will recharge your energy. Another way to reshape your mindset is by embracing new experiences and saying "yes" to opportunities that come your way.

Jody really helped me remember why we need to spend more time practicing mindfulness and appreciating the little things. By slowing down, observing nature, and being fully present in the moment, we can find joy in the simple beauty around us. Doing this is a powerful reminder to prioritize our surroundings and not always rush towards the next goal.

If you're feeling stuck or in need of a mindset shift, consider changing your environment. It doesn't have to be a grand trip to a national park. A simple change of scenery can make a difference. Take the time to explore a new place, immerse yourself in nature, or even connect with different people. By breaking free from your routine, you open yourself up to new ideas and perspectives.

Remember, it's not about rushing to get things done or reaching the next goal. It's about being present in the moment, appreciating the beauty around you, and allowing your mind to recharge and refocus.

"Talent times Relationships plus expectations plus reward and recognition equals the productivity of a team."

Episode Highlights

[00:03:02] Gallup's 4 measurements of team productivity.

[00:06:22] Giving gratitude and recognition reinforces positive behavior and improves productivity.

[00:08:42] Clarify expectations and communicate with your team for improved productivity.

[00:12:45] Assess team morale, identify need for friendship

[00:15:39] Discuss expectations, recognize team, gather feedback, clarify actions, follow-up.

[00:16:40] Use feedback to improve leadership for better results

Connect with Dan:

www.dancockerell.com

About Dan - https://dancockerell.com/about/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dancockerell/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dancockerell/

Facebook - www.facebook.com/dancockerellspeaker

The Four Elements of Team Productivity

There are four key elements that contribute to successful team productivity. During this conversation, Jody and I talk about the importance of setting clear expectations, building strong relationships, implementing effective reward and recognition systems, and ensuring the right talent is in the right roles within a team. There are also four powerful questions I share that you can ask your team to assess your leadership and drive better results.

Four Elements

1. Clear Expectations: Ensure your team knows what is expected of them, when to reach out for guidance, and the level of autonomy they have in decision-making.
2. Strong Relationships: Take the time to get to know your team members personally, understand their communication preferences, career aspirations, and passions.
3. Reward and Recognition: Find ways to reward and recognize the achievements of your team members to inspire continued dedication and excellence.
4. Talent Alignment: Understanding your team members' natural talents and passions, and aligning them with their responsibilities, will unleash their potential.

This is a must-listen episode for anyone looking to take their team's productivity to the next level. By leveraging these four elements—talent, relationships, expectations, and reward and recognition—you can unlock a team's full potential and achieve exceptional results. Take it a step further by asking questions and gathering feedback. That’s how you can identify areas for improvement and make the necessary adjustments to enhance team productivity.

“If you don't keep their interest, they walk away. So I really learned really quickly how to keep that interest. And that was through storytelling.”

Episode Highlights

[00:01:22] Passion for storytelling through moving around.

[00:04:30] Transitioned from working for Disney to writing for nonprofits and training small business leaders

[00:10:14] Inspiration from Disney's use of stories, failures, and four key challenges (safety, courtesy, show efficiency).

[00:14:42] Storytelling creates respect and enhances effectiveness.

[00:16:30] Own your story; be universal and specific.

[00:22:10] Training nonprofits on storytelling.

Connect with Alice

Visit Alice’s Website

Order the book Tell Your Story

Connect with Dan:

www.dancockerell.com

About Dan - https://dancockerell.com/about/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dancockerell/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dancockerell/

Facebook - www.facebook.com/dancockerellspeaker

Connecting With Customers Through Storytelling

Alice Fairfax's passion for storytelling was ignited at a young age.  Her father's military background resulted in frequent moves and the need to adapt to new environments. As a means of connecting with others in unfamiliar settings, Alice discovered the power of storytelling. She recognized that she was able to establish relationships by sharing her own tales and listening to others' experiences.

Whether it's sharing a tale about your day or engaging an audience on a grand stage, storytelling builds connections and deeper relationships. Alice found her interest in storytelling amplified through theater and acting. It became the perfect outlet for her to dig even deeper into storytelling by bringing characters and narratives to life.

As a performer at Disney, Alice focused on audience interactive storytelling. That means she was often inviting individuals to become part of the story. This technique ensured engagement, enabling her to maintain interest even in challenging conditions. For businesses, this highlights the significance of actively involving customers, clients, and employees in their narratives to generate a deeper connection.

Alice has started to support small business owners with storytelling across various platforms, from presentations to social media. Her book, "Tell Your Story," offers practical tools and techniques to craft compelling narratives that resonate with your ideal audience. It's a valuable resource for anyone looking to translate their story effectively and authentically.

Storytelling remains a powerful tool in our increasingly disconnected world. It has the potential to bridge gaps, evoke emotions, educate, and inspire. Stay tuned for Alice's book release in November and remember to embrace the magic of storytelling in your personal and professional endeavors.

“It's not just about the people, but also the systems and processes in place. When art and science come together, magic happens.” -Dan Cockerell

Leadership and culture are the driving forces when it comes to creating exceptional customer experiences. Smart organizations know the value of a well-designed plan for their business. They can't just open shop without a clear vision. It requires a savvy combination of the art and science of customer service.

Two great examples of well-designed customer service experiences are Athleta and Banana Republic. They've trained their employees to go the extra mile, offering options like checking other stores' inventory for your desired size. It's all part of a well thought out process in their customer experience plan.

No matter how great of a plan you come up with, consistency is key. It's not just about hiring good people, but about creating a culture where everyone delivers exceptional customer service. For example, when you walk into Athleta or Banana Republic, you know you'll receive top-notch service, no matter who's working. Everyone is trained so that customers get a predictable experience.

Culture plays a vital role in customer service. It's about how things are done around here. As a leader, you set the tone for your organization. Define the experience you want to create, plan it out, and make sure it's consistently delivered. Ask yourself:

• What is the service experience that you want to create?
• How are you going to communicate it to your employees?
• How are you going to create checklists and processes to make sure It is done over and over and over again?

Whether you're a business owner, a department manager, or even an HR representative, think about the service experience you want to offer. Remember, customer service is both an art and a science. Plan it, communicate it, and create processes to ensure it's executed flawlessly. Your customers will thank you through their loyalty.

Connect with Dan:

www.dancockerell.com

About Dan - https://dancockerell.com/about/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dancockerell/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dancockerell/

Facebook - www.facebook.com/dancockerellspeaker

 Episode Highlights

[00:02:11] Reflecting on leadership tactics for businesses.

[00:04:40] Brands with exceptional service.

[00:07:25] Find your culture, create great service, learn from experiences.

[00:10:42] Employee training for better customer interactions.

[00:15:25] Pay attention to the customer journey and touchpoint map.