Winning Through Culture

Finishing With Intention: Building Culture and Momentum as You Enter 2026

As the year winds down, the pressure ramps up — deadlines, family events, holiday expectations, and the natural urge to “finish strong.” In this episode, Tim and Amanda wrap up their how-to series by breaking down what it really means to close out 2025 with intention and build momentum for 2026. They explore practical ways leaders can stay present, choose priorities deliberately, strengthen culture during a noisy season, and shift from a “doing” mindset to a “being” mindset. This conversation sets the stage for leaders who want to enter the new year aligned, energized, and better — not bitter. KEY TOPICS: * Why year-end feels overwhelming—and how to reframe “I’m busy” * Choosing presence over pressure during the holidays * Replacing the to-do list with a “to-be” list * How to decide if 2025 was a winning year or a learning year * The one question every leader should ask before January 1 * Building your Personal Board of Directors: challenger, encourager, protector, integrator * Creating small wins that build real momentum * Using reflection, clarity breaks, and intention to enter 2026 strong Related Content: Living Your Core Values to Drive Growth: A Vision for 2025 [https://winningthroughculture.com/entrepreneurs/living-your-core-values-drive-growth-vision-for-2025/] | How to Build and Fuel a Healthy Company Culture [https://winningthroughculture.com/podcast/build-fuel-healthy-company-culture/] ——  TUNE INTO WINNING THROUGH CULTURE ON YOUR PREFERRED PODCAST PLATFORM * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/winning-through-culture/id1502179590?mt=2&ls=1] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/47D6waGD9xaE1SSgLZygUn] * YouTube Music [https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLp3pGEaBdfmUnwnMo9rQxVgarv6f8wEwQ] ABOUT WINNING THROUGH CULTURE In today’s ever-changing world, it is more important than ever for an entrepreneur to stay impactful and relevant. That’s where Winning Through Culture comes in! This podcast will let you inside the dynamic minds of Tim Flanagan and Amanda Kramer to give you expertise, insight, and tips so that you can remain impactful and relevant. With Tim and Amanda’s experience and desire to plant knowledge in the business leaders around them, we hope you will take this podcast into your everyday life as an upcoming entrepreneur. This genuine content will provide opportunities, relationships, and a community to expand your personal and professional growth. Let’s create a winning culture together! CONNECT WITH US * Tim Flanagan: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/tflanaganjr/] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/winningthroughculture/] * Amanda Kramer: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandalandrethkramer/] IMPORTANT LINKS * The Pelora Group [https://thepeloragroup.com/]   CRN202812-9994828 The post Finishing With Intention: Building Culture and Momentum as You Enter 2026 [https://winningthroughculture.com/entrepreneurs/finishing-with-intention-building-culture-and-momentum-2026/] appeared first on Winning Through Culture [https://winningthroughculture.com].

Leading with Care and Candor with Garry Ridge

In this episode of Winning Through Culture, hosts Tim Flanagan and Amanda Kramer sit down with Garry Ridge, Chairman Emeritus of WD-40 Company, bestselling author, and founder of The Learning Moment [https://thelearningmoment.net/]. Known globally as The Culture Coach and affectionately as The Dean of Dumbassery, Garry shares timeless lessons on leadership, learning, and creating workplaces where people feel safe, valued, and inspired to do their best work. Garry explores how great leadership is simple—but never easy. From the meaning behind his book Any Dumb-Ass Can Do It [https://www.amazon.com/Any-Dumb-Ass-Can-Do-Multi-Billion-Dollar/dp/1637746296/] to his “Maniac Pledge” for accountability, he emphasizes that effective leaders balance courage with care and toughness with tenderness. His approach to leadership centers on trust, curiosity, and continual learning—what he calls “learning moments.” Through engaging stories and practical wisdom, Garry outlines the four cultural pillars every organization needs: care, candor, accountability, and responsibility. He reminds us that when leaders build cultures of trust and openness, people not only perform better—they go home happy, and that happiness ripples out into families and communities. KEY TOPICS: * The real meaning behind Any Dumb-Ass Can Do It and lessons from the humble donkey * Leading with both toughness and tenderness: the heart of gold and backbone of steel * The “Maniac Pledge” and how to empower accountability in organizations * Why “learning moments” turn mistakes into growth * The four pillars of a thriving culture: care, candor, accountability, responsibility * Creating clarity through hierarchical core values * How leaders can coach, not manage—and why it matters for culture * The ripple effect of happy workplaces on families and communities ABOUT GARRY RIDGE: Garry Ridge is the Chairman Emeritus of WD-40 Company and recipient of an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from National University, recognized for his lifetime contribution to leadership, organizational culture, and workplace transformation. He also holds a Master of Science in Executive Leadership from the University of San Diego. Known globally as The Culture Coach, Garry helps leaders design workplaces where people feel safe, valued, and inspired to do their best work. Through his firm, The Learning Moment [https://thelearningmoment.net/], he partners with executives to create cultures of trust, collaboration, and purpose-driven performance. He also serves on the boards of The Gorilla Glue Company [https://gorillatough.com/] and Eastridge Workforce Solutions [https://www.eastridge.com/], where he brings decades of global leadership expertise. A sought-after speaker and bestselling author, Garry co-authored Helping People Win at Work with Ken Blanchard and contributed to Work is Love Made Visible. His most recent book, the USA Today bestseller Any Dumb-Ass Can Do It [https://www.amazon.com/Any-Dumb-Ass-Can-Do-Multi-Billion-Dollar/dp/1637746296/], reinforces his belief that great leadership is simple—but never easy. Affectionately known as The Dean of Dumbassery, Garry champions the idea of “learning moments,” encouraging leaders to turn mistakes into opportunities for growth. His core philosophy is clear: when people feel safe, valued, and connected, they do their best work—and go home happy. That ripple effect strengthens families, communities, and ultimately, the world. Related Content: Braving the Workplace: Building Belonging and Leadership with Dr. Beth Kaplan [https://winningthroughculture.com/entrepreneurs/braving-the-workplace-dr-beth-kaplan/] | How to Build and Fuel a Healthy Company Culture [https://winningthroughculture.com/podcast/build-fuel-healthy-company-culture/] ——  TUNE INTO WINNING THROUGH CULTURE ON YOUR PREFERRED PODCAST PLATFORM * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/winning-through-culture/id1502179590?mt=2&ls=1] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/47D6waGD9xaE1SSgLZygUn] * YouTube Music [https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLp3pGEaBdfmUnwnMo9rQxVgarv6f8wEwQ] ABOUT WINNING THROUGH CULTURE In today’s ever-changing world, it is more important than ever for an entrepreneur to stay impactful and relevant. That’s where Winning Through Culture comes in! This podcast will let you inside the dynamic minds of Tim Flanagan and Amanda Kramer to give you expertise, insight, and tips so that you can remain impactful and relevant. With Tim and Amanda’s experience and desire to plant knowledge in the business leaders around them, we hope you will take this podcast into your everyday life as an upcoming entrepreneur. This genuine content will provide opportunities, relationships, and a community to expand your personal and professional growth. Let’s create a winning culture together! CONNECT WITH US * Tim Flanagan: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/tflanaganjr/] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/winningthroughculture/] * Amanda Kramer: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandalandrethkramer/] * Garry Ridge: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/garryridge/] IMPORTANT LINKS * The Pelora Group [https://thepeloragroup.com/] * The Learning Moment Inc [https://thelearningmoment.net/]   CRN202811-9868393 The post Leading with Care and Candor with Garry Ridge [https://winningthroughculture.com/entrepreneurs/leading-with-care-candor-garry-ridge/] appeared first on Winning Through Culture [https://winningthroughculture.com].

Braving the Workplace: Building Belonging and Leadership with Dr. Beth Kaplan

In this episode of Winning Through Culture, hosts Amanda Kramer and Tim Flanagan are joined by Dr. Beth Kaplan, author of Braving the Workplace [https://www.amazon.com/Braving-Workplace-Belonging-Breaking-Point/dp/1684816955/] and a leading expert in belonging and leadership development. Together, they explore how leaders can create brave spaces—environments where truth is told with care and vulnerability meets accountability. Dr. Kaplan discusses the difference between safe and brave spaces, the impact of belonging uncertainty on performance, and why care—not perfection—is at the heart of effective leadership. The conversation uncovers practical ways for leaders to replace assumptions with invitations, meet people where they are, and build cultures rooted in authenticity and care. KEY TOPICS: * The difference between inclusion and belonging—and why both matter * How to balance vulnerability, candor, and accountability as a leader * Why psychological safety fuels courage and growth * Practical ways to show genuine care and strengthen team connections * How progress, not perfection, creates sustainable success Dr. Kaplan also shares findings from her ongoing research with the University of Pennsylvania and offers a reminder that leadership is never neutral—it’s either healing or harmful. ABOUT DR. BETH KAPLAN: Dr. Beth Kaplan is a researcher, writer, and thought leader on belonging and leadership development. Through her work with organizations like Salesforce, Georgetown University, and the Carnegie Foundation, she helps people and teams thrive through care, courage, and connection. Learn more at drbethkaplan.com [https://drbethkaplan.com/] Related Content: Winning Women Series | Kristen Eskew on Fostering Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging [https://winningthroughculture.com/entrepreneurs/winning-women-series-kristen-eskew-diversity-equity-inclusion-belonging/] | How to Build and Fuel a Healthy Company Culture [https://winningthroughculture.com/podcast/build-fuel-healthy-company-culture/] ——  TUNE INTO WINNING THROUGH CULTURE ON YOUR PREFERRED PODCAST PLATFORM * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/winning-through-culture/id1502179590?mt=2&ls=1] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/47D6waGD9xaE1SSgLZygUn] * YouTube Music [https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLp3pGEaBdfmUnwnMo9rQxVgarv6f8wEwQ] ABOUT WINNING THROUGH CULTURE In today’s ever-changing world, it is more important than ever for an entrepreneur to stay impactful and relevant. That’s where Winning Through Culture comes in! This podcast will let you inside the dynamic minds of Tim Flanagan and Amanda Kramer to give you expertise, insight, and tips so that you can remain impactful and relevant. With Tim and Amanda’s experience and desire to plant knowledge in the business leaders around them, we hope you will take this podcast into your everyday life as an upcoming entrepreneur. This genuine content will provide opportunities, relationships, and a community to expand your personal and professional growth. Let’s create a winning culture together! CONNECT WITH US * Tim Flanagan: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/tflanaganjr/] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/winningthroughculture/] * Amanda Kramer: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandalandrethkramer/] * Dr. Beth Kaplan: Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/drbethkaplan] | X [https://x.com/drbethkaplan] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/drbethkaplan/] | LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-kaplan] IMPORTANT LINKS * The Pelora Group [https://thepeloragroup.com/] * DrBethKaplan.com [https://drbethkaplan.com/]   CRN2028140-9763171 The post Braving the Workplace: Building Belonging and Leadership with Dr. Beth Kaplan [https://winningthroughculture.com/entrepreneurs/braving-the-workplace-dr-beth-kaplan/] appeared first on Winning Through Culture [https://winningthroughculture.com].

Crafting Purpose Statements That Inspire with Tim Kelley

In this episode of Winning Through Culture, Amanda Kramer and Tim Flanagan speak with Tim Kelley, a global expert on purpose and author of True Purpose. Tim shares his insights on why most organizations struggle to define a meaningful purpose statement—and how to create one that sparks real inspiration and change. The conversation explores why strong purpose statements often provoke both positive and negative reactions, and why that tension is a sign of authenticity and boldness. Tim outlines practical methods for uncovering purpose, including both conscious brainstorming and deeper subconscious approaches, and explains how leaders can test the strength of a purpose statement through measurable reactions. He also emphasizes the importance of regularly revisiting and refining purpose statements to keep them relevant and impactful. Drawing from his experience coaching executives, governments, and global organizations, Tim highlights why purpose is more than words on a wall—it’s the foundation for engagement, fulfillment, and lasting culture. KEY TOPICS: * Why many companies fail in crafting compelling purpose statements * How to gather meaningful insights through “purpose-adjacent” questions * Using strong reactions—positive or negative—as the best indicator of a powerful purpose * Why bold and even “arrogant” purpose statements inspire action * The role of unconscious methods in uncovering deeper purpose * How purpose fuels employee engagement and cultural alignment * Practical ways to apply purpose in daily decision-making ABOUT TIM KELLEY: Tim Kelley is a global authority on purpose, an acclaimed speaker, and the author of True Purpose [https://www.amazon.com/True-Purpose-Strategies-Discovering-Difference/dp/0615267939]. He has trained more than 1,000 consultants, therapists, and coaches in his methods and worked with leaders from companies such as Alibaba, Oracle, and PwC, as well as government ministers and presidential candidates. A certified Conscious Capitalism consultant, Tim leads the Conscious Capitalism Consulting Certification Program. He holds a mathematics degree from MIT and previously served as a commanding officer in the U.S. Navy. Related Content: The Power of Storytelling with Danielle Krischik [https://winningthroughculture.com/entrepreneurs/storytelling-danielle-krischik/] | How to Build and Fuel a Healthy Company Culture [https://winningthroughculture.com/podcast/build-fuel-healthy-company-culture/] ——  TUNE INTO WINNING THROUGH CULTURE ON YOUR PREFERRED PODCAST PLATFORM * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/winning-through-culture/id1502179590?mt=2&ls=1] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/47D6waGD9xaE1SSgLZygUn] * YouTube Music [https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLp3pGEaBdfmUnwnMo9rQxVgarv6f8wEwQ] ABOUT WINNING THROUGH CULTURE In today’s ever-changing world, it is more important than ever for an entrepreneur to stay impactful and relevant. That’s where Winning Through Culture comes in! This podcast will let you inside the dynamic minds of Tim Flanagan and Amanda Kramer to give you expertise, insight, and tips so that you can remain impactful and relevant. With Tim and Amanda’s experience and desire to plant knowledge in the business leaders around them, we hope you will take this podcast into your everyday life as an upcoming entrepreneur. This genuine content will provide opportunities, relationships, and a community to expand your personal and professional growth. Let’s create a winning culture together! CONNECT WITH US * Tim Flanagan: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/tflanaganjr/] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/winningthroughculture/] * Amanda Kramer: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandalandrethkramer/] * Tim Kelley: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/timothyakelley/] IMPORTANT LINKS * The Pelora Group [https://thepeloragroup.com/] * True Purpose Institute [https://www.truepurposeinstitute.com/]   CRN202810-9682317 The post Crafting Purpose Statements That Inspire with Tim Kelley [https://winningthroughculture.com/entrepreneurs/crafting-purpose-statements-tim-kelley/] appeared first on Winning Through Culture [https://winningthroughculture.com].

The Power of Storytelling with Danielle Krischik

In this episode of Winning Through Culture, Tim Flanagan interviews Danielle Krischik, partner and chief strategy officer at the Knight Agency, to explore how storytelling shapes organizational culture. Danielle shares her journey from advertising copywriter to master storyteller, highlighting how stories connect people to their work, their leaders, and each other. The conversation unpacks why leaders must not only become better storytellers but also enablers of their team’s stories. Danielle explains how stories create trust, build alignment, and turn numbers into meaning, offering practical ways leaders can weave storytelling into everyday moments—whether in team meetings, one-on-ones, or company town halls. She also reflects on the importance of leaders understanding their own story and how storytelling will define the future of connection in the workplace. KEY TOPICS: * Why storytelling is a foundation of culture, not just communication * The four areas leaders should connect people through story: company, work, leader, and team * Turning “the grind” into purpose by giving the why behind the work * The role of compassion, authenticity, and even failure in building trust * Captivate, Relate, Motivate: Danielle’s framework for powerful storytelling * How owning and reframing your personal story can strengthen your leadership ABOUT DANIELLE KRISCHIK: Danielle Krischik is a master storyteller, executive advisor and Partner of Knight Agency [https://knightagency.com/], a marketing company based in Orlando, Florida, and Kansas City, Missouri, that builds business through human connection. With a background in story strategy and corporate communications, Danielle has worked with Fortune 500 companies and rising entrepreneurs alike. She is the creator of The Story Effect [https://thestoryeffect.com/], an award-winning podcast and proven framework that transforms the way leaders communicate and connect. A former ballerina, Danielle still takes the stage as a speaker and leads storytelling workshops, helping people understand the power of stories to create connection and drive performance. Related Content: The Purpose Summit Insights [https://winningthroughculture.com/entrepreneurs/the-purpose-summit-insights/] | Michael Reddington: Unlocking Commitment Through Disciplined Listening [https://winningthroughculture.com/entrepreneurs/michael-reddington-unlocking-commitment-through-disciplined-listening/] ——  TUNE INTO WINNING THROUGH CULTURE ON YOUR PREFERRED PODCAST PLATFORM * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/winning-through-culture/id1502179590?mt=2&ls=1] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/47D6waGD9xaE1SSgLZygUn] * YouTube Music [https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLp3pGEaBdfmUnwnMo9rQxVgarv6f8wEwQ] ABOUT WINNING THROUGH CULTURE In today’s ever-changing world, it is more important than ever for an entrepreneur to stay impactful and relevant. That’s where Winning Through Culture comes in! This podcast will let you inside the dynamic minds of Tim Flanagan and Amanda Kramer to give you expertise, insight, and tips so that you can remain impactful and relevant. With Tim and Amanda’s experience and desire to plant knowledge in the business leaders around them, we hope you will take this podcast into your everyday life as an upcoming entrepreneur. This genuine content will provide opportunities, relationships, and a community to expand your personal and professional growth. Let’s create a winning culture together! CONNECT WITH US * Tim Flanagan: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/tflanaganjr/] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/winningthroughculture/] * Amanda Kramer: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandalandrethkramer/] * Danielle Krischik: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellekrischik/] IMPORTANT LINKS * The Pelora Group [https://thepeloragroup.com/] * The Knight Agency [https://knightagency.com/] * The Story Effect Podcast [https://thestoryeffect.com/]   CRN202810-9569217 The post The Power of Storytelling with Danielle Krischik [https://winningthroughculture.com/entrepreneurs/storytelling-danielle-krischik/] appeared first on Winning Through Culture [https://winningthroughculture.com].