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Episode 22 (S3 | Ep1): Lessons form 2024 & Preparing for 2025
In this episode, Rick Johnson and Ryan Shapiro discuss the transition into 2025, reflecting on the lessons learned from 2024 and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for small businesses and PEOs. They explore the dynamics of the fall selling season, the importance of proactive communication from PEOs, and the impact of regulatory changes such as minimum wage hikes. The conversation also touches on industry trends, including the role of AI in HR and the growth potential for small businesses in the coming year.
Episode 21 (S2 | Ep11): Riplet! The PEO Pup
In this episode of the PEO Speedwagon podcast, hosts Rick and Ryan reflect on the growth and evolution of their show during season two. They introduce Riplett, the new puppy, and discuss the busy season for PEOs, the importance of higher-level conversations in PEO sales, and the diverse perspectives shared by their guests. They also look ahead to season three, expressing excitement for future discussions and the impact of their podcast on listeners.
Episode 20 (S2 | Ep10): Chris Dornfeld, Co-Founder of Whistle Systems
In this episode of the PEO Speedwagon podcast, host Rick Johnson and Ryan Shapiro speaks with Chris Dornfeld, president and co-founder of Whistle, about the importance of employee engagement, recognition, and the science behind human behavior in the workplace. They discuss how Whistle leverages data to improve workplace culture and employee retention, the significance of timely rewards, and the need for companies to meet employees where they are. The conversation also touches on the future of work, emphasizing flexibility and the importance of understanding employee needs.
Episode 19 (S2 | Ep9): Jim Scheetz, How CEOs view PEOs
If you've ever wondered what the PEO evaluation process looks like from the perspective of a CEO/CFO - this episode of the PEO Speedwagon is for you. Rick and Ryan are joined by Jim Scheetz of ZQUARED. Jim has an extensive background of leading highly successful organizations as a CEO and CFO, and he has gone through the PEO buying process a total of THREE times. So you could say he knows a thing or two about the good, the bad, and the ugly, as well as role a PEO can play in an organizations growth strategy. Outside of the business world, he has a resume worthy of The Most Interesting Man in the World.
Episode 18 (S2 | Ep8): The Fast Lane of Fall Sales
In this episode of the PEO Speedwagon podcast, hosts Rick Johnson and Ryan Shapiro discuss the dynamics of the fall selling season in the PEO industry. They reflect on the challenges and opportunities that come with this busy time, including the importance of client relationships, the impact of PEOs on business growth, and the complexities surrounding health insurance and level-funded plans. The conversation emphasizes the need for transparency in the sales process and the significance of developing impact data to effectively communicate the value of PEO services.
Episode 17 (S2 | Ep7): Bryan Neale, NFL Referee and Founder of Blind Zebra
In this conversation, Rick Johnson, Ryan Shapiro, and Bryan Neale discuss various topics including Bryan's role as the founder of Blind Zebra, his background as an NFL referee, and the importance of simplicity and process in sales. Bryan shares how his experience as a referee has taught him emotional detachment from outcomes and the value of playing the next play. He also emphasizes the need for sales teams to focus on common sense strategies and the importance of self-awareness in achieving sales targets. The conversation focuses on the guiding principles of the Blind Zebra operating system and how they can be applied to sales coaching and business growth. The conversation touched on the parallels between sales and sports, the importance of momentum in sales, and the unique approach Blind Zebra takes in teaching their system.
Episode 16 (S2 | Ep6): John Allen, G&A Partners
This episode of the PEO Speedwagon Podcast hosts G&A Partners CRO, John Allen. We discuss how John came to the CRO position, his background that helped him succeed, and the vision he has for the future of the organization. John and Ryan discuss PEO sales and the Fall Selling Season and the value of motivating your team during the busiest part of the year.
Episode 15 (S2 | Ep5): The Fall Selling Season
In this episode of the PEO Speedwagon Podcast Rick and Ryan explain why PEO sales reps are calling business owners now more than ever, what opportunities are available for SMBs looking to find a PEO, and how to properly look around at your options this time of year.
Episode 13 (S2 | Ep3): Questco CEO, Jason Randall
A special episode of PEO Speedwagon as we welcome our first guest, Jason Randall, CEO of Questco. Discover Jason's journey from PEO client to industry leader, and gain insights on PEO growth, HR outsourcing, and valuable advice for newcomers!
Episode 12 (S2 | Ep2): The Myth of the Unique Business Struggle
n this episode of the PEO Speedwagon Podcast Hosts Rick and Ryan zoom in on the issues businesses face and how PEOs can help resolve them. Every organization is unique and has their own challenges, and while PEOs are well equip to solve a vast majority of challenges business owners face some are still hesitant to work with a PEO because they think their situations are uncommon.
In this episode we go case by case looking at circumstances that often make a business owners feel trapped and discuss the ways a PEO can help navigate out of sticky situations while also providing a multitude of other business solutions.
Episode 11 (S2 | Ep1): Season 2 is here!
Welcome to the Season 2 premiere of PEO Speedwagon! In this episode, hosts Rick Johnson and Ryan Shapiro kick off with new strategies and updates. As business environments change, staying on top of things is crucial. Rick and Ryan discuss the latest industry news and trends that can affect your approach in the coming months. New segments, interviews, and success stories. This episode offers practical advice to help you manage HR, compliance, and employee issues. Tune in to find out how partnering with a PEO can improve your business operations and prepare you for a successful season.
Episode 10: Season 1 Finale, Rapid Fire Evaluations!
In this Season 1 Finale of the PEO Speedwagon Podcast Rick and Ryan look back on the first few episodes, the leaps and bounds made improving the show and then go into a rapid fire evaluation of 3 company profiles from all over the spectrum: On site bioscience laboratories, small non-profits, to nationwide tech companies. Hop in the speedwagon, join us, and learn how we evaluate which PEO or outsourced HR solution is the best fit!
Episode 9: Kansas City, FTC, and Along Came a Spider
In this episode of PEO Speedwagon, hosts Rick and Ryan discuss the challenges of multi-state compliance and recent FTC rulings on non-compete agreements. Insights from Ryan's trip to KC highlight the importance of personal connections in understanding diverse market needs. The episode also touches on the role of PEOs in enhancing company culture and preparing businesses for regulatory changes affecting employee mobility.
Episode 8: Things are lining up!
Embark on a journey of reflection and change in Episode 8, where we candidly share out experiences, from technical glitches of podcasts hosting and sponsored ballpark nights with clients. Delving into recent client onboarding, we explore the transformative impact of PEO platforms on organizational efficiency and employee employment. Uncover the seasonality of marketing efforts in the PEO industry as we navigate the dynamic landscape of decision making processes and the catalysts for change.
Episode 7: Empower your Existing HR
In this Spring Break themed episode, Rick and Ryan discusses the nuanced process of matching Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs) with existing HR frameworks.
Episode 6: Navigating PEO Complexities
Our first Part 2 - from listener demand, we go deeper with "Fun with Data: A Deeper Dive," Rick and Ryan expand on PEO intricacies, focusing on pricing and healthcare renewals. They explore strategies to maintain client interest during renewal periods, highlighting the importance of proactive engagement.
Episode 5: Fun with Data
In this episode, Rick and Ryan discuss the intricacies and challenges associated with starting or switching to a Professional Employer Organization (PEO), with a particular focus on the daunting task of data gathering.
Episode 4: Navigating PEO Complexities
In this episode we dive into the vast array of PEOs available for organizations and how to navigate the 500+ options out there.
Episode 3: 2024! New Goals, New Mindset, Same Values
What's next in HR outsourcing and how important it is for companies to stick to their core values. It's a deep dive into making 2024 a great year for the industry, with practical advice for sales reps and a peek into the future.
Episode 2: It's Onboarding Season
Insights shared on PEO implementation, the importance of this period for companies with new PEOs or HR systems, and best practices for onboarding. Amidst the technical talk, they keep it light-hearted discussing their newfound podcast fame and offer sage advice for navigating the crucial first week of January in the PEO world.
Episode 1: The PEO Speedwagon
Hey PEO industry, why so serious? Welcome to the PEO Speedwagon Podcast. This inaugural episode featuring hosts Rick and Ryan from PEOMG, offers an engaging and fun-filled exploration of the Professional Employer Organization (PEO) industry.