Let’s get acquainted – A little bit about me
A client of mine introduced me to their organization as their "strength and conditioning coach," and it’s a term that I’m most proud of because it came from a customer. It’s a title that has resonated for many other customers as well, and it accurately describes what I do best.
Through my work as a professional speaker and business coach, I help people get in better business shape -- to kick up their games, embrace innovative tools and challenge their status quo. I help audiences move to action by way of presenting empowering, engaging and entertaining presentations. My impact on others is reflected in the fact that BizBash/CONNECT Meetings recently selected me as one of the "Top 15 over 50 Professionals in the Meetings and Events Industry."
My first book, "Twist the Familiar," is scheduled for a spring 2024 release. I offer curated stories and compelling lessons from a vast array of people and industries, helping readers build their own playbook for success.
My areas of expertise and most popular topics include sales, negotiation, leadership, personal branding, customer service, buyer-seller relations, executive development, change/crisis management, organizational synergy and teamwork/collaboration.
II am a Certified Virtual Presenter and all of my programs are available as virtual, hybrid or in-person deliveries. I also offer tailored one-on-one coaching for people who are experiencing job or career transition, or those who want help on personal branding, upskilling and social media positioning.
My clients hail from across a wide range of diverse industries such as hospitality, CVBs/DMOs, national/state/regional associations, companies of all sizes, clubs, wineries, public sector, insurance, high tech, small businesses and Fortune 1000 firms.
I am also very proud of my customers' compliments about the sweat equity I invest in getting to know them and understanding their particular needs and goals prior to an assignment. I take due diligence very seriously and craft tailored programs for all levels of organizations, from front-line teams to owners/upper management.
My transformative programs are available as keynotes, breakout sessions, workshops, executive retreats, facilitation, and leadership "field trips" such as my "Battlefields-to-Business" seminars.
How I get involved and pay it forward, too
I am active as an author, committee member and trusted advisor in many different business groups, including MPI. I served two terms as president of the Northern California chapter of PCMA. I have authored over 35 articles for both print and on-line publications on a variety of business topics such as sales, leadership, personal branding, resort operations, multi-generational workplaces, improving communication and team-building.
I have been interviewed on radio shows, podcasts and webinars such as "No Vacancy", "Here's Chicago", "Connect", "Thought Leader Life" and "Shift Shapers." My articles for Hotel-Online consistently rate in their Top Twenty. Additionally, SELLING POWER Magazine profiled my unique executive sales retreat program.
I earned my Bachelor's Degree from Michigan State University in Business Administration from The School of Hospitality Business. I am currently in my second term as president of the school’s Alumni Board of Directors. I am extremely proud of being named one of The School's “Most Outstanding Alumni in the first 75 Years” and also “Emerging Alumnus of the Year.” I enjoy giving back by visiting the campus annually as an Honorary Faculty Member to address classes, mentor students with career advice, and also provide mock interviews and resume reviews.
Following graduation, my hotel career included 17 years in luxury hotel sales and operations leadership for Westin, Fairmont and Park Lane Hotels International. I parlayed that spark of hospitality into founding Training for Winners in 1995.
Why engage me? How can I help you?
Essentially, my goal is to elevate, educate and entertain my audiences, to help them find that extra gear. My clients hire me to make an impact. Whether for your organization, your team, or yourself, the goal of what needs to be achieved becomes my mission.
I work very closely with business leaders, event planners and educational committees to craft my customized work to enhance their program/event's theme and achieve their desired outcomes.
I consider an assignment to be successful when I've delivered for my customers and strengthened them, when I have helped put them in a position to achieve greater success. I pride myself on being easy to do business with. Also, I thrive on taking on the tough assignments, as I like a good challenge!
Let's put something special together.
Check these out:
Enjoy one of my many published articles, this one published by Trade Show News Network, highlighting 5 immediately useful keys for lpeople in leadership: Calling All Leaders: It’s Time to Shine! | TSNN Trade Show News
Catch my short podcast discussion on an episode of Shift-Shapers with host David Saltzman: “What Does Your Brand Say About You?”
Ep #323: What Does Your Brand Say About You? - With Gary Hernbroth - Shift Shapers Online