Welcome to Summer, 2018 Edition!

Summer finally arrived, and here in Chicago it was nice to see the mercury pass 80 degrees for once. We’re wrapping up the rainiest May in years, and I’m ready for good stuff. Here’s to 94 days of amazing summer for you and yours!

New Podcast Episode: Mary Ann O’Connell, CEO of FranWise

My guest this week is Mary Ann O’Connell, Founder and President of FranWise. She’s spent the last 30 years helping emerging brands operationalize all aspects of their business, and stopped by to share a few critical team insights with us on the podcast. What’s the biggest mistake that new franchisors make when it comes to the people side of their business? Mary Ann tells us, and shares how to avoid similar mistakes.

Stream the conversation below or find us listed in Apple Podcasts or Google Play.

New Inc. Column: The Most Important Employee Benefit for Gen X

So much is written about Millennials that Gen Xers might feel under-loved. But this generation is not stepping into senior-level roles en force, and my generations cares about one thing more than anything else when it comes to benefits. Read my column to find out what that is.

Book Recommendation

Julie Rodgers, Hireology’s COO, recommended this book to me a few weeks back and I’m loving it. This classic business book put the term Emotional Intelligence on the map, and it’s just been re-released in an updated 10th Anniversary edition. If you manage people, you should to read it.

Get it here: Primal Leadership: Unleashing the Power of Emotional Intelligence

ICMYI

It’s as difficult as it’s ever been to find qualified talent. Jobless claims remain near historic lows – CNBC.com

Solid negotiating tactic, or potential wet blanket for the U.S. economy? Trump attacks NAFTA partners with tariffs – New York Times