Shows
Founder IndependenceFI003 Why Leadership Fails Without SystemsIn this episode, Brian Creager and Bernd Geropp discuss the common misconceptions about leadership failures among founders. They argue that leadership does not fail due to a lack of character or effort, but rather when companies rely on individuals instead of implementing effective systems. The conversation explores the importance of structure, decision-making processes, and the limitations of motivation and experience in leadership. They emphasize that true leadership is about creating an environment where the organization can thrive independently of the founder's presence. Takeaways Leadership fails when companies rely on people ins...
2026-02-1120 min
Founder IndependenceFI002 Breaking the Bottleneck: Founder IndependenceSummary In this conversation, Brian Creager and Bernd discuss the challenges faced by founders, particularly the overwhelming workload and the cognitive overload that comes with being the decision-maker in a company. They explore the concept of self-leadership as a foundational element for effective leadership and the importance of understanding one's role as a founder. The discussion highlights the need for founders to delegate decision-making and focus on long-term strategy rather than getting bogged down in day-to-day operations. The episode concludes with a preview of the next episode, which will delve into the relationship between leadership and systems.
2026-02-0415 minFounder IndependenceFI002 Breaking the Bottleneck: Founder IndependenceSummary In this conversation, Brian Creager and Bernd discuss the challenges faced by founders, particularly the overwhelming workload and the cognitive overload that comes with being the decision-maker in a company. They explore the concept of self-leadership as a foundational element for effective leadership and the importance of understanding one's role as a founder. The discussion highlights the need for founders to delegate decision-making and focus on long-term strategy rather than getting bogged down in day-to-day operations. The episode concludes with a preview of the next episode, which will delve into the relationship between leadership and systems.
2026-02-0415 min
Founder IndependenceFI001 Why Leadership Breaks as Your Company GrowsIn this episode, Brian Creager and Bernd Geropp discuss the concept of Founder Independence, emphasizing the need for founders to transition from being the bottleneck in their companies to establishing systems that allow their businesses to run independently. They explore the importance of self-leadership, delegation, and creating a structured environment that fosters accountability and ownership among employees. The conversation highlights common pitfalls founders face, such as escalation culture and the challenges of growth without proper systems in place. The episode sets the stage for future discussions on leadership and business strategy. Takeaways The company o...
2026-01-2823 minFounder IndependenceFI001 Why Leadership Breaks as Your Company GrowsIn this episode, Brian Creager and Bernd Geropp discuss the concept of Founder Independence, emphasizing the need for founders to transition from being the bottleneck in their companies to establishing systems that allow their businesses to run independently. They explore the importance of self-leadership, delegation, and creating a structured environment that fosters accountability and ownership among employees. The conversation highlights common pitfalls founders face, such as escalation culture and the challenges of growth without proper systems in place. The episode sets the stage for future discussions on leadership and business strategy. Takeaways The company o...
2026-01-2823 min
Founder IndependenceLME 065 - When "Just HR" Isn't Enough AnymoreIn this episode, we talk about why growing companies need a real HR function. One that's not just about contracts and compliance, but about people, leadership, and growth. You'll learn: Why HR must evolve from administration to strategy What happens when HR takes over leadership tasks and why that's dangerous How HR and management can work together as true partners Where HR should lead and where it should only support And most importantly: how HR can empower managers instead of replacing them. Leadership Crashcourse...
2025-10-2906 minFounder IndependenceLME 065 - When "Just HR" Isn't Enough AnymoreIn this episode, we talk about why growing companies need a real HR function. One that's not just about contracts and compliance, but about people, leadership, and growth. You'll learn: Why HR must evolve from administration to strategy What happens when HR takes over leadership tasks and why that's dangerous How HR and management can work together as true partners Where HR should lead and where it should only support And most importantly: how HR can empower managers instead of replacing them. Leadership Crashcourse...
2025-10-2906 min
Founder IndependenceLME 064 - From Founder to Leader - Learning to Let GoMany entrepreneurs reach a point where the very strengths that built their company start holding it back. They're still the expert, the problem-solver, the driving force, but that also means the business can't run without them. In this episode, we explore the hardest transformation for any founder: moving from doing everything yourself to building leaders who take ownership. You'll learn: Why letting go is more emotional than strategic How to build a strong senior leadership team you can truly trust The five steps to create an ownership c...
2025-10-2512 minFounder IndependenceLME 064 - From Founder to Leader - Learning to Let GoMany entrepreneurs reach a point where the very strengths that built their company start holding it back. They're still the expert, the problem-solver, the driving force, but that also means the business can't run without them. In this episode, we explore the hardest transformation for any founder: moving from doing everything yourself to building leaders who take ownership. You'll learn: Why letting go is more emotional than strategic How to build a strong senior leadership team you can truly trust The five steps to create an ownership c...
2025-10-2512 min
Founder IndependenceLME 063 - Leading Under Pressure – Lessons from the Nuclear and Submarine World - Interview with Bill NowickiMy guest is Bill Nowicki. He is a former U.S. Navy submariner and nuclear power leader who has spent decades working in some of the most complex and high-stakes environments you can imagine. Bill is also a storyteller and podcast host. His show Submarine Sea Stories takes you deep below the surface into life aboard a submarine, while The Nuclear Leader Podcast explores leadership lessons from the nuclear industry that apply far beyond the reactor room. In our conversation, we'll talk about what it's like to lead in highly regulated, high-risk industries, how trust a...
2025-09-1048 minFounder IndependenceLME 063 - Leading Under Pressure – Lessons from the Nuclear and Submarine World - Interview with Bill NowickiMy guest is Bill Nowicki. He is a former U.S. Navy submariner and nuclear power leader who has spent decades working in some of the most complex and high-stakes environments you can imagine. Bill is also a storyteller and podcast host. His show Submarine Sea Stories takes you deep below the surface into life aboard a submarine, while The Nuclear Leader Podcast explores leadership lessons from the nuclear industry that apply far beyond the reactor room. In our conversation, we'll talk about what it's like to lead in highly regulated, high-risk industries, how trust a...
2025-09-1048 min
Founder IndependenceLME 062 - Why Misunderstandings Happen - And How to Avoid Them as a LeaderWhy Misunderstandings Happen – And How to Avoid Them as a Leader Clear communication is the foundation of good leadership – but clarity is often assumed rather than achieved. In this episode, you'll learn: Why "saying something clearly" doesn't guarantee it will be understood. How the communication loop works – and where leaders go wrong. A simple but powerful feedback technique to avoid misunderstandings. Why choosing the right medium (spoken vs. written) makes a huge difference. Five practical leadership tips to reduce miscommunication in your team. Misunderstandings don't just w...
2025-09-0307 minFounder IndependenceLME 062 - Why Misunderstandings Happen - And How to Avoid Them as a LeaderWhy Misunderstandings Happen – And How to Avoid Them as a Leader Clear communication is the foundation of good leadership – but clarity is often assumed rather than achieved. In this episode, you'll learn: Why "saying something clearly" doesn't guarantee it will be understood. How the communication loop works – and where leaders go wrong. A simple but powerful feedback technique to avoid misunderstandings. Why choosing the right medium (spoken vs. written) makes a huge difference. Five practical leadership tips to reduce miscommunication in your team. Misunderstandings don't just w...
2025-09-0307 min
Founder IndependenceLME 061 - The 3 Biggest Fears Leaders Have About AI - And the Truth Behind ThemToday we break down why AI doesn't replace great leadership – but it brutally exposes average and slow leadership. I share the 3 biggest fears leaders have about AI, and shows how the reality is far more empowering. You'll discover: Why AI is the "new electricity" for leadership. The most common leadership fears about AI – and what's really true. 3 practical use cases showing how AI gives leaders back time, clarity, and impact. AI won't steal your job. But a leader using AI might. 👉 Don't miss my free live we...
2025-08-2707 minFounder IndependenceLME 061 - The 3 Biggest Fears Leaders Have About AI - And the Truth Behind ThemToday we break down why AI doesn't replace great leadership – but it brutally exposes average and slow leadership. I share the 3 biggest fears leaders have about AI, and shows how the reality is far more empowering. You'll discover: Why AI is the "new electricity" for leadership. The most common leadership fears about AI – and what's really true. 3 practical use cases showing how AI gives leaders back time, clarity, and impact. AI won't steal your job. But a leader using AI might. 👉 Don't miss my free live we...
2025-08-2707 min
Founder IndependenceLME 060 - Make Work Easier - The Process Driven Way with Layla PomperIn this episode, I talk with Layla Pomper, founder of ProcessDriven and expert in building simple, scalable systems for small teams. Layla shares her refreshing perspective on how processes can fuel creativity instead of killing it and why small businesses need structure without the corporate bloat. If you're running a growing team and want to stay productive without drowning in chaos, this conversation is for you. Layla Pompers YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@LaylaPomper. Shownotes: https://berndgeropp.com/make-work-easier
2025-08-2033 minFounder IndependenceLME 060 - Make Work Easier - The Process Driven Way with Layla PomperIn this episode, I talk with Layla Pomper, founder of ProcessDriven and expert in building simple, scalable systems for small teams. Layla shares her refreshing perspective on how processes can fuel creativity instead of killing it and why small businesses need structure without the corporate bloat. If you're running a growing team and want to stay productive without drowning in chaos, this conversation is for you. Layla Pompers YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@LaylaPomper. Shownotes: https://berndgeropp.com/make-work-easier
2025-08-2033 min
Founder IndependenceLME 059 - A Summer Pause with PerspectiveIn this special, more personal episode of Leadership Made Easy, I share why I'm taking a conscious summer break – and what exciting projects are coming in the second half of the year. I'll give you a sneak peek of what's ahead: The rollout of the English BETA version of "Ask Bernd", our leadership chatbot. Fresh podcast episodes planned through October. A new webinar series on AI and Leadership starting on September 4th. My upcoming travels – including the Membership Growth Conference in England, client sessions in India and Dubai, and the...
2025-07-3107 minFounder IndependenceLME 059 - A Summer Pause with PerspectiveIn this special, more personal episode of Leadership Made Easy, I share why I'm taking a conscious summer break – and what exciting projects are coming in the second half of the year. I'll give you a sneak peek of what's ahead: The rollout of the English BETA version of "Ask Bernd", our leadership chatbot. Fresh podcast episodes planned through October. A new webinar series on AI and Leadership starting on September 4th. My upcoming travels – including the Membership Growth Conference in England, client sessions in India and Dubai, and the...
2025-07-3107 min
Founder IndependenceLME 058 - How to Stay Calm Under Pressure - Even as a LeaderAs a leader, your ability to stay calm in stressful situations sets the tone for your entire team. In this episode, I share why calmness is a crucial leadership skill and how you can develop it even under pressure. You'll hear real-life examples and get 5 practical tools to help you manage stress, respond with clarity, and lead with confidence even when things go wrong. Shownotes: https://berndgeropp.com/how-to-stay-calm-under-pressure
2025-07-0209 minFounder IndependenceLME 058 - How to Stay Calm Under Pressure - Even as a LeaderAs a leader, your ability to stay calm in stressful situations sets the tone for your entire team. In this episode, I share why calmness is a crucial leadership skill and how you can develop it even under pressure. You'll hear real-life examples and get 5 practical tools to help you manage stress, respond with clarity, and lead with confidence even when things go wrong. Shownotes: https://berndgeropp.com/how-to-stay-calm-under-pressure
2025-07-0209 min
Founder IndependenceLME 057 - Hustle Harder" Is Dead. Here's Why…For years, entrepreneurs were told: "Work harder, work longer, sacrifice more… and you'll make it." But here's the hard truth I learned from one of the best in the business: That's a dangerous myth. I recently spoke with Chris Ducker, a man who built a multi–million dollar business with almost 500 employees… and crashed hard. Not once, but twice. Chris shared openly about how chasing growth nearly broke him - and why he now leads differently. Today, he works fewer hours, focuses only on his zone of genius, and builds teams...
2025-06-2542 minFounder IndependenceLME 057 - Hustle Harder" Is Dead. Here's Why…For years, entrepreneurs were told: "Work harder, work longer, sacrifice more… and you'll make it." But here's the hard truth I learned from one of the best in the business: That's a dangerous myth. I recently spoke with Chris Ducker, a man who built a multi–million dollar business with almost 500 employees… and crashed hard. Not once, but twice. Chris shared openly about how chasing growth nearly broke him - and why he now leads differently. Today, he works fewer hours, focuses only on his zone of genius, and builds teams...
2025-06-2542 min
Founder IndependenceLME 056 - What Makes A Great Leader? Start By Asking What Makes A Good Employee.Before you think about vision, charisma, or big-picture strategy, ask yourself: "What makes a good employee?" Most people say things like: ✅ They take responsibility ✅ They follow through ✅ They communicate clearly ✅ They're proactive ✅ They act with integrity Here's the leadership twist: 👉 Everything you expect from a great employee – your team expects from you. Leadership isn't about having all the answers. It's about being the example. Your team mirrors your behavior. If they're avoiding decisions, ask: "Am I giving them clarity and trust?" If they'r...
2025-06-1808 minFounder IndependenceLME 056 - What Makes A Great Leader? Start By Asking What Makes A Good Employee.Before you think about vision, charisma, or big-picture strategy, ask yourself: "What makes a good employee?" Most people say things like: ✅ They take responsibility ✅ They follow through ✅ They communicate clearly ✅ They're proactive ✅ They act with integrity Here's the leadership twist: 👉 Everything you expect from a great employee – your team expects from you. Leadership isn't about having all the answers. It's about being the example. Your team mirrors your behavior. If they're avoiding decisions, ask: "Am I giving them clarity and trust?" If they'r...
2025-06-1808 min
Founder IndependenceLME 055 - Big Goals: Why Thinking Small Won't Get You FarMost managers and entrepreneurs set goals they know they can achieve. Because it's safe. Because it feels realistic. But here's the truth: Small goals lead to small results, but big goals force you to grow. In this episode, I explain: ✅ Why "realistic" goals are often a trap ✅ How big goals shift your mindset and your business ✅ A simple framework to start setting goals that scare (and excite) you Shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.de/big-goals
2025-06-0406 minFounder IndependenceLME 055 - Big Goals: Why Thinking Small Won't Get You FarMost managers and entrepreneurs set goals they know they can achieve. Because it's safe. Because it feels realistic. But here's the truth: Small goals lead to small results, but big goals force you to grow. In this episode, I explain: ✅ Why "realistic" goals are often a trap ✅ How big goals shift your mindset and your business ✅ A simple framework to start setting goals that scare (and excite) you Shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.de/big-goals
2025-06-0406 min
Founder IndependenceLME 054 - Behind The Scenes: Honest Conversation Betweeen Two Leadership CoachesI recently sat down with my long-time colleague and leadership expert Dr. Burkhard Bensmann for a very personal and honest conversation. We didn't talk about buzzwords or the latest leadership trends. We talked about what really matters when you're leading a team, a company—or just yourself. In this new episode of Leadership Made Easy, we discuss: 🔹 What cooperative, people-centered leadership looks like in practice 🔹 Why rituals like journaling, piano practice—or even LEGO—can keep you sane 🔹 What we can learn from India, Colombia… and the power of perspective 🔹 How we de...
2025-05-3152 minFounder IndependenceLME 054 - Behind The Scenes: Honest Conversation Betweeen Two Leadership CoachesI recently sat down with my long-time colleague and leadership expert Dr. Burkhard Bensmann for a very personal and honest conversation. We didn't talk about buzzwords or the latest leadership trends. We talked about what really matters when you're leading a team, a company—or just yourself. In this new episode of Leadership Made Easy, we discuss: 🔹 What cooperative, people-centered leadership looks like in practice 🔹 Why rituals like journaling, piano practice—or even LEGO—can keep you sane 🔹 What we can learn from India, Colombia… and the power of perspective 🔹 How we de...
2025-05-3152 min
Founder IndependenceLME 053 - What Every Business Owner Should Know Before Entering the U.S. MarketIn this special episode of Leadership Made Easy, we take a step back from our usual focus on day-to-day leadership and zoom out to discuss international business strategy — specifically, how small and mid-sized companies from Germany (or Europe in general) can successfully enter the U.S. market. My guest is Brian Creager, an experienced American business leader who has spent decades working on both sides of the Atlantic. He's fluent not only in English but also in the language of European business culture. His practical insights are grounded in long-term experience with transatlantic business expansion. If...
2025-05-2135 minFounder IndependenceLME 053 - What Every Business Owner Should Know Before Entering the U.S. MarketIn this special episode of Leadership Made Easy, we take a step back from our usual focus on day-to-day leadership and zoom out to discuss international business strategy — specifically, how small and mid-sized companies from Germany (or Europe in general) can successfully enter the U.S. market. My guest is Brian Creager, an experienced American business leader who has spent decades working on both sides of the Atlantic. He's fluent not only in English but also in the language of European business culture. His practical insights are grounded in long-term experience with transatlantic business expansion. If...
2025-05-2135 min
Founder IndependenceLME 052 - Stop Throwing New Managers Into The Deep EndSo why do so many companies throw new managers into their roles with zero onboarding? The result? Confused leaders, frustrated teams—and top performers heading for the exit. Shownotes:https://www.berndgeropp.com/new-managers-into-the-deep-end Leadership Crashcourse: https://www.berndgeropp.com/leadership-crash-course
2025-05-1408 minFounder IndependenceLME 052 - Stop Throwing New Managers Into The Deep EndSo why do so many companies throw new managers into their roles with zero onboarding? The result? Confused leaders, frustrated teams—and top performers heading for the exit. Shownotes:https://www.berndgeropp.com/new-managers-into-the-deep-end Leadership Crashcourse: https://www.berndgeropp.com/leadership-crash-course
2025-05-1408 min
Founder IndependenceLME 051 - The Power of One-on-OnesToday, we're diving into a simple, yet incredibly powerful leadership tool that many overlook: One-on-Ones. If you don't already have regular One-on-Ones in your leadership routine, I encourage you: Make them a habit. Start this week. Block time with each of your team members and make One-on-Ones part of your leadership routine. To make this even easier, I created a practical One-on-One blueprint for you. You can donwload it here: One-on-One Blueprint and Checklist https://www.berndgeropp.com/one-on-one-blueprint/ Shownotes of these episode: https://berndgeropp.com...
2025-05-0706 minFounder IndependenceLME 051 - The Power of One-on-OnesToday, we're diving into a simple, yet incredibly powerful leadership tool that many overlook: One-on-Ones. If you don't already have regular One-on-Ones in your leadership routine, I encourage you: Make them a habit. Start this week. Block time with each of your team members and make One-on-Ones part of your leadership routine. To make this even easier, I created a practical One-on-One blueprint for you. You can donwload it here: One-on-One Blueprint and Checklist https://www.berndgeropp.com/one-on-one-blueprint/ Shownotes of these episode: https://berndgeropp.com...
2025-05-0706 min
Founder IndependenceLME 050 - The First 100 Days As A Leader - How To Succeed In Your New RoleThe first 100 days as a leader set the stage for everything that follows. By focusing on clarity, relationships, and balanced progress, you can make a lasting impact. Don't forget to sign up for the Leadership Crash Course at berndgeropp.com/VIP . Shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/the-first-100-days-as-a-leader
2025-04-3009 minFounder IndependenceLME 050 - The First 100 Days As A Leader - How To Succeed In Your New RoleThe first 100 days as a leader set the stage for everything that follows. By focusing on clarity, relationships, and balanced progress, you can make a lasting impact. Don't forget to sign up for the Leadership Crash Course at berndgeropp.com/VIP . Shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/the-first-100-days-as-a-leader
2025-04-3009 min
Founder IndependenceLME 049 - Best Team Ever: How to Build a High Performing Team Without A Big BudgetIn this exclusive interview, leadership expert and bestselling author David Burkus shares powerful and practical strategies for building high-performing teams — especially in small and mid-sized businesses. Website David Burkus: https://davidburkus.com/ Davids Book "Best Team Ever https://davidburkus.com/books/best-team-ever/ Shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/best-team-ever-david-burkus
2025-04-2330 minFounder IndependenceLME 049 - Best Team Ever: How to Build a High Performing Team Without A Big BudgetIn this exclusive interview, leadership expert and bestselling author David Burkus shares powerful and practical strategies for building high-performing teams — especially in small and mid-sized businesses. Website David Burkus: https://davidburkus.com/ Davids Book "Best Team Ever https://davidburkus.com/books/best-team-ever/ Shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/best-team-ever-david-burkus
2025-04-2330 min
Founder IndependenceLME 048 - Debunking 7 Leadership Myths That Hold You Back Shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/debunking-leadership-myths VIP Early Access to my Leadership Crashcourse: Secure your exclusive spot now: https://www.berndgeropp.com/VIP
2025-04-1609 minFounder IndependenceLME 048 - Debunking 7 Leadership Myths That Hold You Back Shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/debunking-leadership-myths VIP Early Access to my Leadership Crashcourse: Secure your exclusive spot now: https://www.berndgeropp.com/VIP
2025-04-1609 min
Founder IndependenceLME 047 - My Personal Learnings From The Past 3 WeeksIn this episode I talk about my personal impressions, encounters, and entrepreneurial experiences from the last 3 weeks traveling in India, Masterminding and Networking. Shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/personal-learnings-from-3-weeks
2025-03-2910 minFounder IndependenceLME 047 - My Personal Learnings From The Past 3 WeeksIn this episode I talk about my personal impressions, encounters, and entrepreneurial experiences from the last 3 weeks traveling in India, Masterminding and Networking. Shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/personal-learnings-from-3-weeks
2025-03-2910 min
Founder IndependenceLME 046 - Help! My Boss Is Terrible - What Can I Do?In this episode of Leadership Made Easy, we dive into a challenge many professionals face: dealing with a bad boss. But what actually makes a boss "bad"? And how much of the problem is fixable? We explore: ✅ The 4 types of bad bosses – from demanding and incompetent to emotionally clueless and outright toxic. ✅ The "Love It, Change It, or Leave It" approach – your three real options for handling a difficult boss. ✅ 5 practical strategies to improve your situation, including shifting your mindset, strategically supporting your boss, and delivering feedback the right way. If you're stuck with...
2025-03-2009 minFounder IndependenceLME 046 - Help! My Boss Is Terrible - What Can I Do?In this episode of Leadership Made Easy, we dive into a challenge many professionals face: dealing with a bad boss. But what actually makes a boss "bad"? And how much of the problem is fixable? We explore: ✅ The 4 types of bad bosses – from demanding and incompetent to emotionally clueless and outright toxic. ✅ The "Love It, Change It, or Leave It" approach – your three real options for handling a difficult boss. ✅ 5 practical strategies to improve your situation, including shifting your mindset, strategically supporting your boss, and delivering feedback the right way. If you're stuck with...
2025-03-2009 min
Founder IndependenceLME 045 - Time For What Really MattersToday we talk about how leaders can reclaim time for what truly matters, both professionally and personally. By implementing immediate actions like controlling interruptions, fixing meeting culture, and learning to say no, as well as long-term strategies like delegation and team development, leaders can free up to 50% of their time and regain control over their work and personal lives. Shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/time-for-what-really-matters Secure your Spot on my VIP List! In just a few weeks, we're launching the brand-new Crash Course Leadership – a step-by-step system to help y...
2025-03-1110 minFounder IndependenceLME 045 - Time For What Really MattersToday we talk about how leaders can reclaim time for what truly matters, both professionally and personally. By implementing immediate actions like controlling interruptions, fixing meeting culture, and learning to say no, as well as long-term strategies like delegation and team development, leaders can free up to 50% of their time and regain control over their work and personal lives. Shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/time-for-what-really-matters Secure your Spot on my VIP List! In just a few weeks, we're launching the brand-new Crash Course Leadership – a step-by-step system to help y...
2025-03-1110 min
Founder IndependenceLME 044 - The Vision Journey: A Powerful Method To Gain Clarity And DirectionHave you ever struggled to bridge the gap between logic and emotion in your decision-making? Or wondered how visionary thinking can unlock new opportunities for you and your business? In this episode, I sit down with Katja Schäfer. She is an expert in guiding entrepreneurs and leaders through the Vision Journey—a process that blends logical strategy with emotional clarity to create a compelling vision for the future. Shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/vision-journey Katja on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katjaschaefer-coaching/?locale=en_US Katjas Website:
2025-03-0425 min
Founder IndependenceLME 043 - The Toughest Leadership Challenge – And How to Overcome It Today we dive into the No #1 challenge of leaders: role conflicts. We talk about practical ways to handle these dilemmas with confidence. Secure your Spot on my VIP List! In just a few weeks, we're launching the brand-new Crash Course Leadership – a step-by-step system to help you become a confident and effective leader. And here's the deal: If you join the VIP list now, not only will you get the best price on the course, but you'll also get access to an exclusive Live Online Masterclass - only for VIP members who join th...
2025-02-2612 min
Founder IndependenceLME 042 - Flawless Onboarding: How To Set New Hires Up For SuccessA well-structured onboarding process can make or break employee retention. What can you do to set new hires up for success? Onboarding Checklist: https://www.berndgeropp.com/subscribe-checklist-onboarding Shownotes:https://www.berndgeropp.com/flawless-onboarding
2025-02-1907 min
Founder IndependenceLME041 - How To Earn Respect As A LeaderMany people think respect comes from being nice. Wrong. Respect isn't just a polite smile – it's the result of clarity, trust, and decisiveness. Shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/respect
2025-02-1209 min
Founder IndependenceLME040 - How Many People Can You Effectively Lead?It's a question that comes up in leadership discussions time and again: What's the ideal number of direct reports a leader should have? The answer isn't as simple as a fixed number, but research and experience suggest that 7 ± 2 is often the sweet spot. But what can you do, when you lead 15 people o more? That's what we are talking about in this podcast episode! Shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/how-many-people-can-you-lead
2025-02-0509 min
Founder IndependenceLME 039 - How to Set Clear Expectations for Your TeamShownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/setting-clear-expectations In today's episode, we're diving into a topic that might seem simple but is often overlooked: setting clear expectations for your employees. When was the last time you explicitly communicated what you expect from your team? If you're thinking, "Well, they should already know," then this episode is especially for you. Why Clarity Matters As leaders, we often assume our team knows what we want. After all, isn't it obvious that deadlines matter? Or that quality is non-negotiable? But here's the thing: what's...
2025-01-2909 min
Founder IndependenceLME 038 - Who Should You Promote?Shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/who-should-you-promote Checklist: Who to promote?: https://www.berndgeropp.com/checklist-evaluate-leaders In today's episode, we're tackling one of the most critical decisions you'll face as a leader or entrepreneur: who to promote into a leadership role. This isn't just about rewarding high performers—it's about shaping the future of your team and of your business. Why Promotions Are More Than Just a Title If you are a business owner and your business is growing, you've likely felt the pressure: more customers, more responsibilities, and, unfortunately, mo...
2025-01-2214 min
Founder IndependenceLME 037 - My Experience with AI So FarShownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/my-experience-with-ai Today, I want to share a personal story and my current thoughts on artificial intelligence (AI). A Surprising AI Conversation A couple of weeks ago, I was on a long drive, listening to an audiobook about OKRs—Objectives and Key Results—a popular framework for setting and tracking goals. While the book offered great insights, it felt overly optimistic, glossing over some potential challenges with OKRs. As I was pondering these issues, I thought, "Who can I discuss this with right now?" Instead of c...
2025-01-1507 min
Making It: How Coaches, Consultants, and Creators Build for SuccessHe Built a $10M Business, Lost It All, and Bounced Back (Brian Creager)Special "Business Revenue Leak Checklist" offer free at http://www.mrse.co/leak.Entrepreneur Brian Creager shares his journey from corporate VP to founder, navigating challenges like product failure and bankruptcy. He stresses the importance of strategic growth, people, process, and technology while advocating for life balance. It’s an inspiring story of resilience and vision.Making It explores the lives and stories of entrepreneurs as they share their unique perspectives on their success and the path to making it.“I vowed to myself at the end of that board of d...
2025-01-1014 min
Founder IndependenceLME 036 - My Remote Work Experience - Lessons LearnedShownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/remote-work-experience Today, I want to dive into a topic that's more relevant than ever: remote work. I'll share my personal experiences leading a fully remote team, explore who remote work is suited for, and discuss why some companies are still hesitant to embrace it. Embracing Remote Work When I started building my team, I made a deliberate decision: we'd work fully remote. That decision shaped everything—from hiring to how we communicate and collaborate. Today, my team consists of four people: Alex, Simone, Ersin, and myself. An...
2025-01-0807 min
Founder IndependenceLME 035 - Leadership in 2025: A Fresh Start After the BreakShownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/leadership-in-2025 Welcome back to 'Leadership Made Easy, the podcast where we simplify the art of leadership for small and medium-sized businesses. Its been quite a while since our last episode - in fact, over three years. Thank you A big thank-you to all of you who have stayed connected, kept listening to past episodes, and even joined our email list during this time. Your support and interest mean the world to me. So, where have I been? Well, I've...
2025-01-0107 min
Serious Sellers Podcast: Learn How To Sell On Amazon FBA & Walmart#605 - 8-Figure Amazon Seller To ZERO?!In this episode, a former 8-figure Amazon seller shares how he lost millions and saw sales drop to zero. Learn key mistakes to avoid and protect your Amazon FBA business from disaster.
Join us for an insightful conversation as we welcome Brian Creager, a former eight-figure Amazon seller, who shares his rollercoaster journey through the world of Amazon FBA. Starting with a background in electrical engineering and transitioning into international sales, Brian eventually found his niche in the e-commerce space. Discover how a pivotal moment in his corporate career led him to build a successful s...
2024-10-1537 min
Founder IndependenceLME 034 - Tips For First-Time ManagersToday I talk with Mike Ashie from the YouTube channel: "Leadership with Mike" about tips for first-time managers. Find his YouTube channel Leadership with Mike here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX_oT8liQty9EL7ZJVpz3RA Find the Shownotes here: https://www.berndgeropp.com/tips-for-first-time-managers-with-mike-ashie
2021-06-2731 min
Founder IndependenceLME 033 - How I Learned To DelegateWhen I founded my first company, a high-tech start-up, together with a partner more than 25 years ago, I had a completely wrong idea of managing people. In this post, I'll talk about how I learned to delegate and give you tips on how you can learn it, too. Find the shownotes here: https://www.berndgeropp.com/how-i-learned-to-delegate/ If you'd like to watch the video, check it out here: https://youtu.be/y1PJpAMeuyg Subscribe to my leadership impulses here: https://www.berndgeropp.com/subscribe/
2021-06-2614 min
Founder IndependenceLME032 - Why I quit my job as a highly paid manager!A manager always works in a sandwich position. I explain my struggles with it and why I decided to leave the corporate world more than 10 years ago. Shownotes: berndgeropp.com/quit-job Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/QnTTgi1nPSs
2021-05-2409 min
Founder IndependenceLME-031 - Why one-on-one meetings?One-one-one meetings create trust: Why do you need them? What do you actually talk about and how often should you do one-on-ones? Shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/one-on-one-meetings Video: https://youtu.be/QPsUBZsCFps
2020-11-0510 min
Founder IndependenceLME030 - New as a manager: 5 important tipsWhen you are new in your manager role, you surely don't want to make any unnecessary mistakes, don't you? You want to become a good manager. To meet the challenges of your new role, I will give you my five best practical tips to become a good leader. You'# find the shownotes here: https://berndgeropp.com/episode030 If you like to watch the highly entertaining YouTube-video-version, click here: https://youtu.be/_wlwpSXVfp0
2020-10-0612 min
Founder Independencelme029 - How to set goals with your employeesGoal setting with employees is not easy. How can you be successful with it? Here are my 5 most important tips you should know! Find the Shownotes here: berndgeropp.com/set-goals-with-employees
2020-08-1111 min
Founder IndependenceLME028 - What do you wish you knew, before becoming a successful leader?Today I invited 5 leaders with different backgrounds. I wanted to know from them, what they wish they knew, before becoming successful leaders. You'll find the shownotes wiht all the links to the participants here: https://berndgeropp.com/what-do-you-wish-you-knew
2020-07-2011 min
Founder IndependenceLME 027 - One-on-one meetings!As a leader you should have one-on-one meetings with your direct reports regularly. But how do you introduce one on ones to your direct reports? How does such an one-on-one meeting work? How do you get started and what exactly should you say in such meetings? You'll find the shownotes of this episode here: https://www.berndgeropp.com/one-on-ones/ If you'd like to watch the video, click here: https://youtu.be/ojlIF1asmTU
2020-07-1213 min
Founder Independencelme026 - Entrepreneurs Rocket Fuel - Interview with Mark C. WintersToday we talk about why it needs not just one but two entrepreneurs to build a successful business and why it is essential that these two have dramatically different roles. I talk about this with Mark C. Winters who is the co-author of the book rocket fuel. If you are an entrepreneur or you work for a small business, this interview may be an eye opener for you. Click here for the shownotes: https://berndgeropp.com/episode026
2020-05-1244 min
Founder Independencelme025 - Leading in times of crisisHow can you control the chaos? How you can stay calm and positive with in the storm and how can you engage the hearts and minds of your people in tough times. Shownotes: https://berndgeropp.com/leading-in-times-of-crisis
2020-04-1220 min
Founder Independencelme024 - How to deal with email overloadDo you spend a lot of your time with Emails? Are you suffering from email overload? Help is coming. In this episode I give you my best tips on how to deal with email overload. I'll show you how to cut your time at least in half when working on emails. We will talk how and when you should read your emails, how to write emails efficiently and what you need to do to receive less emails. You'll find the shownotes here: https://berndgeropp.com/episode024
2020-01-1812 min
Founder IndependenceLME023 - How to become a better managerAs a manager today, it isn't enough to just simply focus on results and the financial bottom line. Today you need also to have good human skills to be successful. You need to learn to delegate, no to be a micro manager and you should create a positive work environment. Therefore, in this episode I show you my 3 best tips for your job satisfaction and job productivity as a manager. The Link for the shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/episode023
2020-01-0509 min
Founder IndependenceLME22 - What is the purpose of a company?The purpose of a company is not to make a profit or to create jobs but to satisfy the needs of customers. It's always about customer value. Why is that so? That's what I am talking about in this episode. You'll find the shownotes here: https://www.berndgeropp.com/episode022 If you like to watch the highly entertainment YouTube-video-version, click here: https://youtu.be/cNOt4xcrcJU
2019-11-0205 min
Founder IndependenceLME021 - How to motivate employees in the workplaceYour employees don't contribute, they lack motivation, but they are always looking for better pay? In this podcast episode I'll show you how to fix this. You'll find the shownotes here: https://www.berndgeropp.com/episode021
2019-09-2809 min
Founder IndependenceLME020 - The No1 Feedback RuleEveryone loves to be praised and to be confirmed. Who doesn't like to be praised? With criticism, on the other hand, it's different. If someone explicitly asks for permission to give you feedback, he doesn't just want to praise, he mostly wants to criticize. But criticism questions our self-esteem. It triggers our defense mechanisms, because we believe our reputation is in danger. Actually, we want to be praised, but not judged. That's why it is so important to do it the right way. In this podcast episode I'll give you my No1...
2019-09-0809 min
Founder Independencelme019 - How to stay calm at work when under pressureIt is often not easy to stay calm at work. Nevertheless, there are team leaders and managers that amazingly are able to do this. They radiate a sense of calm and composure, even in stressful situations. So, I started to watch them closely and learn. Nowadays, because of that, I can stay much more calm and composed. Does it always work? Well – no! But more and more! I will give you my 5 tips on how to stay calm at work even during crisis and pressure and even when everything seems to fall apart....
2019-08-2309 min
Founder Independencelme 018 - Onboarding new employees!Today we talk about 3 major mistakes you should avoid when onboarding new employees. You'll find the shownotes of this episode by going to https://berndgeropp.com/episode018 If you want to see the highly entertaining video version of these episode you can check it out on https://www.youtube.com/c/berndgeropp?sub_confirmation=1 Do you spend a lot of time and money searching for new staff members? Yes? But do you also pay enough attention to train the new hires properly? I will explain to you the three most critical m...
2019-08-1711 min
Crowdfunding Uncut | Kickstarter| Indiegogo | Where Entrepreneurs Get Funded[Reprise] Product Validation and Price Sensitivity | feat. Brian CreagerWondering how to get product validation and calculate your costs? Today’s conversation with Brian Creager is a great place to get started. In three years, Brian went from $500 a month to $250,000 a month! Listen to this episode to hear Brian’s expert advice about how to find a product, how to tap into the market for that product, and how to discover costs and set prices. If you want to crowdfund a product and sell online, you need to listen to this episode! How do you know if your product will sell? Your first step...
2019-04-0400 min
Founder Independence017 - How to become a better listener and improve as a leaderHere you'll find the shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/episode017 Today I'll give you 6 simple tips you can immediately implement to become a better listener and 3 crucial tips on how to ask questions the right way. Don't use short questions in rapid succession. Don't trigger fear with your questions. Talk about the background of your question. Are you ready to become the leader you've always wanted to be? Subscribe to my leadership community of likeminded leaders and managers and get regular advice, tips and inspiration. Just go to berndgeropp.com/subscribe
2018-11-2712 min
Founder Independencelme016 - Meeting Deadlines? Here's how to do it!Here you'll find the shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/episode016 Missed deadlines, unkept promises or delayed projects can be a desaster. Here are 10 essential tips for successfully meeting deadlines: Only commit to what you can do. Put it in writing. Identify the purpose. Learn to say "NO". Agree on specific deadlines. Set deadlines for milestones. Keep others informed. Always plan with contingencies. Don't try to be perfect. Get help early. Are you ready to become the leader you've always wanted to be? Subscribe to my leadership community of likeminded leaders and ma...
2018-11-2011 min
Founder Independence015 - Leadership Mistakes: The Top Ten - Part IIHere you'll find the shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/episode015 Learn how to recognize and avoid the top 10 of the most common mistakes made by leaders and managers in small companies as well as in the corporate world. We already spoke about the first five of them. In this episode we talk about the other five mistakes, you need to avoid: Acting unfairly and unjustly! Not standing by your word! Only trusting numbers, data and facts! Demand zero mistakes! Giving employees no opportunities to develop! Are you ready to bec...
2018-11-1312 min
Founder Independence014 - Leadership Mistakes: The Top Ten - Part IHere you'll find the shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/episode014 Learn how to recognize and avoid the top 10 of the most common mistakes made by leaders and managers in small companies as well as in the corporate world. In this episode we start with the five of them: Avoiding making decisions Being not engaged or committed Not listening Micromanaging A conceited view of yourself Are you ready to become the leader you've always wanted to be? Subscribe to my leadership community of likeminded leaders and mana...
2018-11-0714 min
Founder Independence013 - Delivering powerful feedback with Jill SchiefelbeinHere you'll find the shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/episode013 With Jill Schiefelbein I talk about the biggest mistakes which happen when people give feedback in the workplace. Our topics today: How can managers successfully criticese without being rude or offending? How can they still make a clear statement? What do you need to take care of when doing a formal performance review? How can an employee criticise his or her boss without hurting the relationship? Are you ready to become the leader you've always wanted to be...
2018-10-3035 min
Founder Independence012 - How to give feedback.Here you'll find the shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/episode012 As a manager, you need to know how to give feedback. It's your job to help your employees to develop and to improve. They need constructive feedback for this – both positive and negative. Our topics today: Formulate Feedback in an „I" statement Give Feedback, especially criticism, preferably in privat. Make it specific and contructive. Don't give too much feedback at once. Give feedback promptly, but only if the other person is open to it. Are you ready to beco...
2018-10-2313 min
Founder Independence011 - Self Awareness and how to build better teams - Interview with Jessica PettittHere you'll find the shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/episode011 Self awareness is most important for a good leader. Having the ability to recognize what you are good at and where you're not so good at is crucial. Today I interview Jessica Pettitt about this topic. Our topics today: What is Self Awareness? How can we become more self aware? How can we build high performing teams? Are you ready to become the leader you've always wanted to be? Subscribe to my leadership community of likeminded leaders and...
2018-10-1639 min
Founder Independence010 - Feedback about employee performanceHere you'll find the shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/episode010 How can you make a clear statement without hurting people's feelings? Take care that you appreciate good work, but tell clearly what needs to be improved. Our topics today: What you need to avoid when giving feedback. Why feedback purely focused on respect is not enough. How helpful feedback really sounds. Are you ready to become the leader you've always wanted to be? Subscribe to my leadership community of likeminded leaders and managers and get regular advice, tip...
2018-10-0911 min
Founder Independence009 - The Image of Leadership - Interview with Sylvie di GiustoHere you'll find the shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/episode009 Today we talk about the image of leadership. How can you develop your professional imprint and become the leader that you deserve to be? I invited the expert on this topic for an interview: Sylvie di Giusto Our Topics today: What can you do to make a great first impression as a person and especially as a leader? What is the "A-B-C-D" of your imprint? There is no "one size fits all" formula and no typical dress code anymore. So...
2018-10-0239 min
The Solopreneur Hour Podcast with Michael O'Neal739: Start Your Own AMAZON Business Without Making A Product with Brian CreagerThis was a REALLY fun episode, because I didn’t know this business model existed. You can think of a product, find a manufacturer to make it for you, brand it, and sell it on Amazon without carrying a warehouse full of inventory and shipping it yourself. This was a really interesting, informative show. 6:08 May […]
2018-09-241h 03
Founder Independence008 - Performance Based Bonus - What you ought to know about it.Here you'll find the shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/episode008 Variable compensation is often referred to as performance based salary or performance related pay. What is the underlying idea behind it? Does it really work? Well, it depends... Our Topics today: Does performance based bonus work for small companies? What are the objectives of performance based payments? How compensations structures in big companies look like. Objective discussions turn into income negotiations. When can bonus systems be useful? Are you ready to become the leader you've always wanted to be? Subsc...
2018-09-2415 min
Founder Independence007 - How does employee motivation actually work?Here you'll find the shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/episode007 As a manager you impact the employee motivation and employee commitment in your company – but in ways other than what you may think... Our Topics today: Can you buy employee motivation? The crux with bonus payments. Intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. 5 points to get motivated employees. Are you ready to become the leader you've always wanted to be? Subscribe to my leadership community of likeminded leaders and managers and get regular advice, tips and inspiration. Just go to bern...
2018-09-1813 min
Founder Independence006 - How to create a great vision statement for your company.Here you'll find the shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/episode006 What's needed to create a vision statement and what's needed for the vision to work?I'll give you 5 crucial points which make a great business vision. Our Topic today: In the previous episode we spoke about why you should have a true business vision. Today we'll focus on what makes a great business vision and what's needed for the vision to work successfully. Are you ready to become the leader you've always wanted to be? Subscribe to m...
2018-09-1317 min
Founder Independence005 - What is a vision statement and do you need one?Here you'll find the shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/episode005 Do you really need a vision statement? What can a business vision do for you? I'll give you some good and some bad examples of vision statements. Our Topics today: Do you need a vision statement for your company? The business vision isn't about money. Difference between mission and vision statement Why does your business exist? What makes a well-conceived vision statement? Are you ready to become the leader you've always wanted to be? Subscribe to my leadership community of...
2018-09-1110 min
Founder Independence004 - Upward Delegation: How to avoid reverse delegation and monkey businessHere you'll find the shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/episode004 When a task that you have delegated to an employee comes back to you - and you complete it. This is called reverse delegation or monkey business. Our Topic today: We are talking about how to avoid this reverse delegation – a problem a lot of managers suffer from. I'll give you 3 crucial tips helping you when dealing with this kind of "monkey business". Are you ready to become the leader you've always wanted to be? Sub...
2018-09-0616 min
Founder Independence003 - Micromanagement? How to avoid it and get things done.Here you'll find the shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/episode003 You may think you are not a micromanager. But believe me, chances are high, that you are – at least sometimes. But why should you avoid micromanagement? How do you become aware of when you are micromanaging and what can you do to avoid it? We will have answers on all of these – and I'll give you 5 proven tips on how you can avoid micromanaging. Our Topic today: Micromanagement How to avoid micromanagement? How do you become awar...
2018-08-2821 min
Founder Independence002 - How to delegate successfully and get time for the important things.Here you'll find the shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.de/episode002 Most managers don't know how to delegate successfully. Why is that? Our topic today: How to delegate successfully Introducing the 5 levels of delegation How to develop and support your employees so that you get more time for the important things. Are you ready to become the leader you've always wanted to be? Subscribe to my leadership community of likeminded leaders and managers and get regular advice, tips and inspiration. Just go to berndgeropp.com/subscribe
2018-08-2819 min
Founder Independence001 - What is leadership and how can you find time for it?Here you'll find the shownotes: https://www.berndgeropp.com/episode001 Our topic today: If somebody asked you to explain what is leadership? How would you respond? It's hard, right? That's why we discuss today: What is leadership? How is leadership different to management? 3 tips on how to find more time for leadership despite your daily busy work. Are you ready to become the leader you've always wanted to be? Subscribe to my leadership community of likeminded leaders and managers and get regular advice, tips and inspiration.
2018-08-2817 min
Founder Independence000 - What can you expect from this podcast and who is Bernd Geropp?This is the intro for my new podcast: Leadership Made Easy. This is the podcast where you learn how to lead a highly effective team, how to make sure, things get done and how to deal with tough issues like confronting an employee performance problem, getting along with a bad boss or balancing the demands of work with your personal life. Here you'll find the shownotes https://www.berndgeropp.de/episode000
2018-08-2710 min
Capitalism.com with Ryan Daniel MoranTurning A Physical Product Business Into A 100 Million Dollar Empire with Brian CreagerBrian Creager is a Freedom Fast Lane Tribe member who has done exactly what we hope every member will do - succeed in spades. Brian has built multiple million dollar brands and is now eager to become what he calls, "The Procter and Gamble of the Online Space." In order to do that, he knows he's not only going to have to replicate the things he's done to become as successful as he has so far, he's going to have to truly scale things by building systems and a team that can multiply productivity and profitability. You can hear...
2017-04-2436 minCrowdfunding Uncut | Kickstarter| Indiegogo | Where Entrepreneurs Get Funded85 - Product Validation and Price Sensitivity | feat. Brian CreagerWondering how to get product validation and calculate your costs? Today’s conversation with Brian Creager is a great place to get started. In three years, Brian went from $500 a month to $250,000 a month! Listen to this episode to hear Brian’s expert advice about how to find a product, how to tap into the market for that product, and how to discover costs and set prices. If you want to crowdfund a product and sell online, you need to listen to this episode! How do you know if your product will sell? Your first step...
2017-03-1600 min
2015-07-2735 min
Success Profiles RadioHow To Have A Long Hot Marriage, Stay Passionate, and Communicate Effectively With Your PartnerMarriage and sex therapist Todd Creager was my guest this week, and we talked about building and maintaining a strong relationship with a partner. He is the author of the book "The Long, Hot Marriage".
We discussed why it is so difficult to have successful long term intimate relationships, how to stay emotionally connected, how to make the biggest impact on our partner, and the importance of romance in marriage.
We also talked about what happens when one partner is unfaithful, as well as what happens when one person begins to feel more like a roommate than a partner.
Todd...
2012-09-1057 min