The Roz Usheroff Podcast

Episode 30: It’s Not About You - The Leadership Philosophy of Ross Wainwright

Roz Usheroff — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0400

In this inspiring conversation, Perceptyx CEO Ross Wainwright shares the leadership lessons learned through decades of building teams, navigating adversity, and leading through transformation. He explains why trust, humility, and vulnerability are far more powerful than ego, and why great leadership begins when leaders realize it’s not about them. Ross discusses the importance of helping people grow, creating cultures where individuals feel valued, and embracing challenges as opportunities for reinvention. He also offers a thoughtful perspective on AI, arguing that leaders must help employees lean into change rather than fear it. Filled with practical wisdom, personal stories, and authentic insights, this episode explores what it truly means to build organizations and careers, based on purpose, trust, and human connection.

Find out more about Ross Wainwright by visiting https://perceptyx.com/.

A full listing and descriptions of our episodes is available at Roz Usheroff.com/podcast

Episode 29: From Instinct to AI to Insight: The New Rules of Modern Leadership, with Roger Quinlan

Roz Usheroff — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 09:02:00 -0500

In this powerful conversation, Roger Quinlan, SVP of Sales at Coherent, explores how AI is reshaping leadership, from decision-making to designing decision systems. He champions emotional intelligence, radical transparency, and a culture of curiosity as essential traits for future-ready leaders. Roger emphasizes that AI should elevate human potential, not replace it, and that leaders must bridge machine precision with human depth. He shares actionable insights on reskilling, personalized growth, and redefining productivity through value creation. With wisdom, clarity, and drawing on his decades of leadership experience, Roger urges leaders to embrace ambiguity, empower teams, and stay relentlessly curious. This episode is a masterclass in leading with empathy, adaptability, and purpose in the age of AI.

Episode 28: The ROI of Courage with Jesper Helt

Roz Usheroff — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 10:39:00 -0400

A conversation with Jesper Helt

Roz Usheroff welcomes and leadership strategist Jesper Helt for a candid conversation on career growth and leadership. Jesper shares practical wisdom on staying visible and valuable, building authentic relationships, and turning failures into momentum. He explains how to think of your career as a business, create a personal “development board,” and shape your authentic brand. From leading with a smile to embracing courageous conversations, Jesper offers strategies for thriving in today’s fast-changing, hybrid workplace. Inspiring and actionable, this episode is packed with lessons for professionals at every stage.

A full listing and descriptions of our episodes is available at Roz Usheroff.com/podcast

Episode 27: The FROG of Greatness with Sarah McVanel

Roz Usheroff — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0400

In this powerful episode, recognition expert Sarah McVanel joins Roz Usheroff to reveal why recognition isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s the foundation of thriving workplaces. With wisdom, warmth, and real-world stories, Sarah shares how authentic appreciation fuels engagement, retention, resilience, and even innovation. From overcoming skepticism to creating team rituals like “Friday Celebrations,” Sarah explains how small, meaningful gestures can transform individuals, teams, and entire cultures. She introduces the FROG philosophy: Forever Recognize Others’ Greatness, and shows that recognition isn’t fluff; it’s a concrete leadership strategy. Whether at work or at home, acknowledgment matters. This episode is a must-listen for leaders, HR pros, and anyone committed to building a culture where people feel seen, valued, and motivated to give their best.

Find out more about Sarah McVanel by visiting https://greatnessmagnified.com/

A full listing and descriptions of our episodes is available at Roz Usheroff.com/podcast

Episode 26: The Power of Positivity, Curiosity, and Connection, with Jeff Blackman

Roz Usheroff — Tue, 06 May 2025 14:02:00 -0400

In this high-energy episode, celebrated author and speaker Jeff Blackman shares stories and strategies that inspire personal and professional success through positivity, curiosity, and connection. With humor and authenticity, Jeff reveals how a “say yes first” attitude can open doors to unexpected opportunities—even when you don't yet know the "how." He unpacks life lessons from his father’s sales wisdom, courtroom surprises, and transformative client moments that changed the trajectory of careers. Whether you're in sales, leadership, or simply looking for a spark to move forward, Jeff’s insights offer a fresh perspective on creating value, building trust, and choosing progress over perfection. Tune in to feel empowered, entertained, and equipped for your next big breakthrough.

Because this podcast is packed with value, Jeff has generously offered an invaluable tool: 16 powerful, open-ended questions you can use immediately to stand out, build trust, and elevate the customer experience. Pair them with the TED formula (“Tell me more…”) to deepen conversations, show genuine interest, and leave a lasting impression. Request your copy by sending an email to Sheryl@jeffblackman.com, with the subject line: Roz/Jeff Podcast

You can find out more about Jeff Blackman by visiting https://https://jeffblackman.com

A full listing and descriptions of our episodes is available at Roz Usheroff.com/podcast A full listing and descriptions of our episodes is available at Roz Usheroff.com/podcast

Episode 25: Feedback as a Leadership Superpower: 10 Ways to Inspire Growth with Steve Prentice

Roz Usheroff — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 07:49:00 -0500

Feedback is far more than just words exchanged in a meeting. It's a moment of truth that shapes careers and can strengthen trust. But it can also fracture relationships. Even though some people crave candid insights to help them grow and others want to be challenged, they expect it to be delivered in a way that motivates, not criticizes. And that’s something that means something different for every individual. In this most recent episode of the Roz Usheroff podcast, Roz talks with workplace expert Steve Prentice on how leaders can use feedback as a tool for growth, as long as it's done right.

A full listing and descriptions of our episodes is available at Roz https://usheroff.com/podcast.

More information about Steve can be found at https://steveprentice.com

Episode 24: How to Believe In Yourself as a Leader with Brigette McInnes-Day

Roz Usheroff — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 13:11:00 -0400

Great leadership doesn’t come from a book. It comes from a life lived – one that includes new experiences, some risk-taking and the desire to move forward and to help others move forward as well. One of the best ways to learn great leadership comes from listening to people who have done these things, and there can be no finer example than my guest on this episode, Brigette McInnes-Day.

A full listing and descriptions of our episodes is available at Roz Usheroff.com/podcast

Episode 23: Conquering the Leadership Ascent with Heidi Brandow

Roz Usheroff — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 14:31:00 -0400

A conversation with Heidi Brandow. There are leaders who are genius makers, and there are empire builders where it's all about them. Somewhere in the middle are multipliers and accidental diminishers. Find out where you stand. Roz Usheroff talks with Heidi Brandow, an expert in talent management, leadership development, and coaching.

A full listing and descriptions of our episodes is available at Roz Usheroff.com/podcast.

Episode 22: Leaders as Multipliers: A Wise Plan for Leadership with Shawn Vanderhoven

Roz Usheroff — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 07:30:00 -0400

Discover Shawn Vanderhoven's incredible journey from software in Nevada to becoming a partner at The Wiseman Group. In this latest episode of the Roz Usheroff podcast, Shawn shares how his passion for leadership development led him to collaborate on the best-seller "Multipliers." Tune in to hear how empathy and genuine interest in people’s struggles can elevate performance.

You can find out more about Shawn Vanderhoven by visiting https://thewisemangroup.com.

A full listing and descriptions of our episodes is available at https://Roz Usheroff.com/podcast

Episode 21: Charting the Course: Embracing AI for Business Transformation, with Brian Jacobs

Roz Usheroff — Tue, 14 May 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this enlightening conversation, Roz and Brian delve deep into the transformative power of AI and generative technology, drawing from Brian’s extensive experiences in the high-tech sector. They discuss the rapid adoption of AI tools like Chat GPT, emphasizing the pivotal moment that has propelled technology into mainstream consciousness. From enhancing productivity to revolutionizing customer service and supply chains, they explore the disruptive potential of AI across various sectors, as well as importance of responsible deployment, governance, and ethical considerations in leveraging these advancements. Brian provides his expertise and actionable insights for organizations to prepare for and capitalize on the benefits of AI, emphasizing the significance of trust, collaboration, and storytelling in driving successful implementation. Ultimately, they envision a future where AI empowers individuals, fosters innovation, and addresses pressing global challenges, provided it is embraced and utilized effectively.

Episode 20: Heart-Centered Leadership: The New Roadmap to Empower Your Teams and Inspire Change with Roger Quinlan

Roz Usheroff — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0400

So many people wonder what the big secret trick is to becoming a great leader, when the truth is, it comes down to some very simple techniques, such as being kind, and being present. Roger Quinlan has made a successful career out of doing just that and his techniques helped thousands of staffers become better professionals themselves. Learn how simple it can be. You’ll even be able to take a vacation after.

Episode 19: Executive Edge: A Masterclass in Selling to the C-Suite with Chris McClain

Roz Usheroff — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 09:48:00 -0400

An interview with Chris McClain - Selling to senior decision makers is often seen as a huge challenge: they’re well protected, really busy, and not too interested in listening to people in sales. But it can be done, and in many cases, C-Suite members welcome it – when it’s done right. In this episode, Chris McClain delivers a masterclass on how to approach and work with senior company officials in any industry to make that sale. He should know – he’s done it successfully for over 30 years.

Episode 18: Reflections from a Leader with a Fan Club with Anu Hans

Roz Usheroff — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 12:47:00 -0500

An interview with Anu Hans

Anu Hans is well known in the pharmaceutical industry as a leader in supply chain and logistics. Working with J&J and Janssen, she has built a formidable reputation as a female engineer and manager, and she has garnered enormous praise from legions of people who see her as the epitome of a great servant leader. In this episode she shares some of her discoveries, achievements and much-loved moments from three decades of industry leadership.

Episode 17: The Happiness Code: Three Keys To Finding Happiness Through Your Own Definitions with Taron Puri

Roz Usheroff — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 10:03:00 -0500

A discussion on how to empower you and unlock your fullest potential, with Life and Business Strategist Taron Puri.

As we approach a new year, many people struggle with New Year’s resolutions. Not only are these hard to keep, they also open up a question: are these resolutions my true goals, or someone else’s definition of how I should live? On this episode, Roz speaks with Life and Business Strategist Taron Puri about to truly find happiness through your own definitions. A valuable lesson at any time of year.

Information about Taron and his book can be found at https://findingtheguruwithin.com/

Episode 16: Doing the Right Thing: Successful Team-Focused Leadership with Craig Davis

Roz Usheroff — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 13:58:00 -0400

A discussion on how to be a successful leader, with Craig Davis, Head of Cloud Success Services at SAP.

One of the best ways to learn how to become a great leader is to learn from someone who has already traveled that path. Someone who is not only successful, but who is held in great esteem not only by peers, but also, and maybe more importantly by the people being led. There is no better example of this than Craig Davis, whose path to leadership started on the athletic fields of high school through to a senior position in one of the world’s most well-known tech sector companies. In this interview Craig candidly shares his lessons learned and translates them into teachable moments.

Episode 15: Breaking Barriers: Empowering Women to Rise and Thrive in Business with Natalie Benamou

Roz Usheroff — Tue, 30 May 2023 16:30:00 -0400

A conversation with Natalie Benamou. There are numerous challenges facing women in business, not just social and economic, but self-imposed as well. Women approach things very differently than their male counterparts. Expectations around doing a good job and getting it all done make it difficult for many women to step up and demand their fair share of acknowledgement. It is possible to shatter that glass ceiling and to help others do it too, but not only do you have to know how to define yourself, you also need to know how others define you – and then step forward to make the necessary adjustments. On this episode I am joined by a very special guest, Natalie Benamou, Chief Executive Officer of HerCsuiteTM, to share her insights and wisdom for navigating a successful career. I describe her as a purpose driven leader, a strategic event creator, and a speaker, but more than that, she’s a rainmaker for women who want to rise and thrive.

Episode 14: The Power of Emotion in Leadership with Josephine Monberg

Roz Usheroff — Thu, 02 Mar 2023 13:31:00 -0500

Most leaders don't realize how critical central emotions are to building the right culture. They focus on building a logic based culture with shared intellectual values, which is important, of course, but what is also needed is a well-established and vibrant emotional culture. It is my pleasure to speak with Josephine Monberg, head of brand, community and culture strategy for the global value advisory team at SAP on this most important topic.

Episode 13: Change to Thrive in 2023 with Steve Prentice

Roz Usheroff — Tue, 15 Nov 2022 03:00:00 -0500

In this new post-peak-Covid era, a lot has changed. Careers, politics, the economy, everything seems to be changing, which means you need to reassess how you come across to those in your working community. It may be time to change your personal marketing strategy to prepare your career path in 2023. Here are four tips from Roz Usheroff and Steve Prentice to help you to get ready for the next chapter.

Episode 12: The Zoom Effect: What Managers Should Have Learned from the Pandemic About Leadership and Trust with Beth Cohn Ph.D

Roz Usheroff — Mon, 25 Jul 2022 06:00:00 -0400

An interview with Beth Cohn Ph.D. The pandemic pushed us forward in a number of ways when it comes to leadership, management, and relationships with employees. Those who did not learn from it will soon be wondering where their employees and company went. This compelling interview with Beth Banks Cohn reveals some of the key ideas that astute managers should have taken away from the past two years. Teams, productivity, and trust – it all changed, and it’s not too late for you to catch up.

Episode 11: Mental Fitness: The Power to Change How We Choose to Relate to Stress with Taron Puri

Roz Usheroff — Wed, 01 Jun 2022 01:00:00 -0400

An interview with Taron Puri

There's no such thing as guarantees in this ever changing world. Even if you feel confident in your role today, we're still face challenges including burnout and a yearning for stability. To survive and thrive, you have to have a fit mind that is both strong and flexible. In this episode Roz chats with author, speaker, and mentor an authority on empowered living.

Taron's website: FindingTheGuruWithin.com

Episode 10: Thriving in the New Workplace: How to Prepare for Success in 2022 with John Gurski

Roz Usheroff — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 12:35:00 -0500

The new normal will soon be upon us. What does this mean for the workplace? What have we learned about how to work together? How have we changed as people, as leaders and as employees? In this episode Roz talks with John Gurski, Chief Sales Officer for Point Click care on ways you can get a better handle on these challenges and enhance your ability to succeed as we move forward.

Episode 9: Executive Presence and Charisma with Randall Craig

Roz Usheroff — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 06:00:00 -0400

Randall Craig is a serial entrepreneur, speaker, author, and executive coach who is known worldwide for his wisdom and guidance in areas of leadership and communication. He offers tips and techniques for establishing credibility and leadership presence.

Episode 8: How To Tell Someone How Great You Are

Roz Usheroff — Tue, 06 Apr 2021 06:00:00 -0400

Is it OK to toot your own horn? Yes. It’s vital in this day and age to be able to communicate your value to people in a way that is impactful and memorable. But that doesn’t mean you have to be arrogant. The art of self-promotion includes practicing an elevator speech and being mindful of who you are talking to, including what they may be looking for and how they will frame your self-description in their own mind. In this episode Roz delivers the vital do’s and don’ts of crafting one of the most crucial messages that you will ever deliver.

Episode 7: Keeping People Engaged During Online Meetings with Steve Prentice

Roz Usheroff — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 14:00:00 -0500

With people using online meetings for more of their day-to-day work, the ability to keep people engaged is a vital skill. Roz chats with productivity specialist Steve Prentice and together they share notes on how to meet most effectively online.

Episode 6: Optimizing Your Virtual Sales Call for Greater Impact with Doug Draper

Roz Usheroff — Tue, 15 Sep 2020 11:04:00 -0400

The trend to remote sales calls is probably going to evolve into standard practice. Although nothing replaces the intimacy of relationship building in person, there still are strategic ways to enhance rapport, impact and selling skills in this virtual environment. In this episode, Roz chats with world-famous sales trainer Doug Draper about the skills that are essential for connecting with prospects online and in person.

Episode 5: Hitting a Home Run in Your Job Interview - with Rae Kyriazis

Roz Usheroff — Thu, 27 Aug 2020 12:00:00 -0400

The job interview, whether in person or online, can be a nerve-wracking experience. In this episode, Roz welcomes Rae Kyriazis, Global Vice President Field Transformation & Readiness at SAP, back to the podcast. Rae has interviewed and managed thousands of people over the years, and she some deep insights into what to do and not to do make a lasting impression and move your career forward.

Episode 4: How Do We Alter Our Playbooks When the Game Has Changed - with Rae Kyriazis

Roz Usheroff — Fri, 19 Jun 2020 08:58:00 -0400

Roz talks with Rae Kyriazis, Global Vice President - Field Transformation & Readiness at SAP, about self-management, leadership, health, and life balance in unprecedented times.

Episode 3: Amplify Virtual Rapport Between Introverts and Extroverts

Roz Usheroff — Tue, 28 Apr 2020 13:49:00 -0400

Added to the challenges of remote meetings is the fact that introverts and extroverts respond differently to situations. Knowing how to speak the language of everyone across this spectrum is vital to successful virtual communications.

Episode 2: How to Project an Impressive Virtual Executive Screen Presence

Roz Usheroff — Mon, 30 Mar 2020 13:00:00 -0400

Communicating with people through a camera in a virtual meeting is quite different from doing it in person. But your people will continue to look to you as a leader – especially in these trying times – and you must deliver what they need. Join Roz as she shares some industry insider tips on how to relate to people and maintain an impressive presence online.

Episode 1: Projecting Leadership Presence Remotely With Technology

Roz Usheroff — Mon, 30 Mar 2020 12:00:00 -0400

With the COVID-19 outbreak changing all the rules of working, meeting and managing, people are turning to remote technologies like Zoom to connect virtually. Roz shares some vital tips and tricks for communicating with authority and credibility - it's not the same as the boardroom!