Best EJ Swanson Podcasts (2024)

1
Taking Action and Following Your Heart The Future of the Recruiting Industry 39:30

22h ago39:30

39:30

Tom Caravela, a career services expert and entrepreneur, is the first guest on the Sparking Success podcast. He shares his journey of starting his own executive search firm, The Carolan Group, and the success of his podcast, MSL Talk. Tom's decision to start the podcast was driven by his desire to help job seekers and professionals in the pharmaceu…

1
Why Partnerships Matter 10:01

3d ago10:01

10:01

Partnerships in business and life are discussed in this episode. The host shares his experiences and insights on the importance of bringing different skills to a partnership, having clear agreements, and ongoing communication. He emphasizes the value of partnerships in achieving success and fulfillment. The host also acknowledges the significance o…

1
The Importance of Training and Development for Career Advancement in the Packaging Industry 54:23

8d ago54:23

54:23

By The Packaging Paradigm Podcast

1
The importance of choosing the right career path 39:13

10d ago39:13

39:13

In this episode, Aaron Opalewski and E.J. Swanson discuss the importance of choosing the right career path. They highlight three key factors to consider: evaluating the organization or department, evaluating the vehicle or opportunity, and taking action. They emphasize the need for alignment with the company's values and mission, as well as the imp…

1
Top 4 Business Lessons from other Entrepreneurs 37:27

20d ago37:27

37:27

In this episode, Aaron shares four top lessons he has learned throughout his career that he believes will be helpful for other entrepreneurs and business leaders. The first lesson is to focus on the fundamentals and control the controllable aspects of your work. The second lesson is to collaborate with others in your industry, even if they are cons…

1
Crafting Careers in the Packaging Industry 33:44

25d ago33:44

33:44

Summary In this conversation, Dominic interviews Spark Packagings Ian Shiemke , an account manager at Spark Packaging, he shares his journey and insights into the packaging industry. He discusses career advancement, the impact of retail and food service experience, the importance of personal branding, and the opportunities for growth within the ind…

1
The Evolving Landscape of the Packaging Industry with Ryan Fox 39:03

25d ago39:03

39:03

In this episode, Dominic Crosson interviews Ryan Fox, Ryan shares insights on self-mastery, career advancement, and the impact of data points on decision-making. He discusses the significance of understanding personal strengths and leveraging them to make career choices. Additionally, he delves into the evolving landscape of the packaging industry,…

1
Welcome to The Packaging Paradigm Podcast 27:17

25d ago27:17

27:17

In this episode of the Packaging Paradigm podcast, E.J. Swanson interviews Dom Crosson, the president of Spark Packaging, to discuss his journey in the packaging industry and the purpose of the podcast. Dom shares his career transition, the unique niche of Spark Packaging, and the importance of industry expertise. The conversation also highlights t…

1
The Strategic Decision to Give Away 960 Pizzas: A Long-Term Business Outlook 33:29

29d ago33:29

33:29

On todays episode Aaron and Ej delve into the strategic decision to give away 960 pizzas and the business implications behind it. It explores the concept of customer lifetime value, community engagement, and the importance of long-term business outlook. The discussion also touches on the significance of financial stability and the impact of generos…

1
The Role of EQ in Leadership and Personal Growth 43:30

1M ago43:30

43:30

In this episode, Aaron and EJ discuss the importance of emotional intelligence (EQ) in leadership. Aaron shares his personal journey of developing EQ over the years and how it has impacted his leadership style. They emphasize the need for leaders to evolve and grow in their EQ as their team and responsibilities expand. They also discuss the balance…

1
The Art of Negotiation in Recruitment 37:13

1M ago37:13

37:13

Summary In this episode, Aaron Opalewski and EJ Swanson discuss the art of negotiation in recruitment. They emphasize the importance of understanding the needs and desires of both the client and the candidate in order to make the best match. They highlight the value of thorough communication and preparation in the negotiation process. They also str…

1
Being Present and Intentional in Business and Life 38:22

2M ago38:22

38:22

In this episode, Aaron Opalewski and EJ Swanson discuss the importance of stepping away from work to avoid burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance. They share their personal experiences and insights on when and how to take time off, especially for business owners and leaders. They emphasize the need for intentional time management and bein…

1
The Role of Faith in Success With Ben Newman 28:33

2M ago28:33

28:33

By Aaron Opalewski

1
Sales Mistakes, Respecting the Chain of Command: Treating Everyone with Respect 36:45

2M ago36:45

36:45

In this episode, Aaron and E.J. discuss sales mistakes that people make when connecting with customers and clients. They emphasize the importance of understanding the context and situation of each prospect and not blindly going straight to the top decision-maker. They highlight the mistake of not respecting the chain of command and not building rel…

1
Setting Vision and Direction: The Key to Organizational Success 36:43

2M ago36:43

36:43

In this episode, Aaron Opalewski discusses the importance of setting vision and direction within an organization. He shares his approach to crafting vision and the challenges he has faced in communicating it effectively. Opalewski highlights the significance of off-sites, leadership meetings, company meetings, and daily stand-ups in aligning the te…

1
Understanding the Importance of EBITDA in Business 21:37

2M ago21:37

21:37

Summary In this episode, Aaron Opalewski and E.J. discuss the importance of EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization) in evaluating the profitability and value of a business. They explain how EBITDA is a key number that indicates how much money a business makes and how it can be used to assess the growth and potential…

1
Growing a recruitment business to 7 or 8-figure portfolio companies 59:27

2M ago59:27

59:27

Join Aaron as he share with Mark Whitby from the The Resilient Recruiter Podcast Growing a recruitment business to 7 or 8-figure portfolio companies might be much simpler than you think. Few firm owners achieve this, but Aaron Opalewski stands as an example of this entrepreneurial success. He co-founded his first staffing company at just 24 and has…

1
Building a Talent Acquisition Funnel 35:45

3M ago35:45

35:45

In this episode , Aaron Opalewski shares his expertise on talent acquisition strategies. He discusses the importance of having a talent acquisition funnel to consistently generate potential candidates. He also emphasizes the significance of personal and company branding in attracting talent. Aaron highlights the need for an effective interview proc…

1
The Importance of Performance Management 33:40

3M ago33:40

33:40

Summary In this episode, Aaron Opalewski and EJ Swanson discuss the importance of performance management in organizations. They outline a three-step process for addressing performance issues: friendly conversation, serious discussion, and opportunity plan. They emphasize the need for empathy and clear communication throughout the process. They also…

1
Igniting Success: The Spark Companies' Mission | Deep Dives into the Spark Companies' Portfolio 29:27

3M ago29:27

29:27

Summary In this episode, EJ Swanson and Aaron Opalewski provide an overview of the companies under the Spark Companies umbrella. They discuss the different sectors and service offerings of each company, including Spark Talent, Spark Packaging, John Joseph Partners, Ignite Search, Bolt, and Flex. They also talk about the vision behind Bolt Creative …

1
The Value of Loyalty and Commitment in the Recruiting Industry 43:15

3M ago43:15

43:15

Summary In this episode of the Spark Companies podcast, Aaron Opalewski and Fletcher Kundtz discuss the key characteristics that make someone successful in the recruiting and staffing industry. They highlight three major characteristics: character, self-sacrifice, and accountability. They emphasize the importance of integrity in recruiting and how …

1
The different types of recruiting services 30:45

3M ago30:45

30:45

Summary In this episode, E.J. Swanson and Aaron Opalewski discuss the different types of recruiting at Spark Companies. They cover contract to direct hiring, direct hire, recruitment partner services, and engaged searches. They explain the differences between these types and the benefits they offer to both clients and candidates. They also discuss …

1
The importance of retention awareness in talent acquisition and career development. 32:24

3M ago32:24

32:24

Summary In this episode of the Spark Companies podcast, the hosts discuss the importance of retention awareness in talent acquisition and career development. They emphasize the role of pay, variable compensation, and training in retaining employees. They also highlight the significance of career paths and career maps in providing a clear trajectory…

1
Internal recruiting strategies and the importance of career growth 32:45

3M ago32:45

32:45

Summary In this episode of the Spark Companies podcast, EJ Swanson and Aaron Opalewski discuss internal recruiting strategies and the importance of career growth. They explore the different needs and priorities of individuals in their career paths and how organizations can create opportunities to meet those needs. They also delve into the differenc…

1
Lessons Learned: Challenges and Growth in the Early Years 45:05

3M ago45:05

45:05

Summary In this episode, Aaron Opalewski, the CEO and Managing Partner of Spark Companies and Spark Talent, shares the journey of Spark Companies and its growth over the years. He discusses the early years of Spark, the challenges faced in the second year, and the lessons learned. He also talks about the transition and growth of the company in the …

1
Knowing Your Numbers 42:24

3M ago42:24

42:24

In this episode, Aaron discusses the importance of knowing your numbers in business and how to develop a gross profit strategy. He emphasizes the need to understand financial statements, such as income statements and balance sheets, and the difference between sales revenue and gross profit. Aaron explains that knowing your numbers allows for data-d…

1
The concept of vertical integrations 41:31

3M ago41:31

41:31

In this episode, Aaron discusses the concept of vertical integrations and their role in driving efficiencies, lowering costs, and creating leverage within a business. He emphasizes the importance of timing and focusing on core competencies when considering a vertical integration. Aaron shares examples of successful vertical integrations within Spar…

1
The journey of growing a business at different levels of gross profit 46:11

3M ago46:11

46:11

In this episode, Aaron discusses the journey of growing a business at different levels of gross profit. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on gross profit rather than just sales revenue. Aaron shares insights and challenges encountered when crossing the $1 million, $3 million, and $10 million marks. He highlights the need for the leader to be…

1
The importance of anchoring achievements to key objectives. 43:26

3M ago43:26

43:26

In this episode, Aaron discusses the importance of anchoring achievements to key objectives. He emphasizes the difference between goals and objectives, highlighting the significance of objectives in driving growth and contributing to a larger mission. Aaron also shares personal stories of how he attaches meaning to his objectives, such as impacting…

1
The importance of feedback loops 51:14

3M ago51:14

51:14

In this episode, Aaron Opalewski and EJ Swanson discuss the importance of feedback loops and how they can lead to success in various areas of business. They explore feedback loops in projects, the development of new service lines, and the positive outcomes that can result from analyzing failures. They emphasize the need for quick adjustments and th…

1
The Journey 41:46

3M ago41:46

41:46

In this episode, Aaron Opalewski introduces the Sparking Success podcast and shares his personal journey from his upbringing to his current role as the CEO of Spark Companies. He discusses the importance of faith and how it has guided his path. Aaron also talks about his experiences in school, sports, and personal training, highlighting the lessons…

1
Episode 76 - A Word From Your Host 4:54

1+ y ago4:54

4:54

Join Joe as he provides an update on the show :)By Multi Multi Podcast

1
Episode 75 - Women Of Multisite 27:31

2+ y ago27:31

27:31

Join Gina Abbas as she talks with Chelsea Van Noord (Harbor Churches), Shanna Craig (Woodside), and Mary Reed (Woodside) about being a woman in multisite ministry. You will be encouraged by their insight and wisdom!By Multi Multi Podcast

1
Episode 74 - Feed Resources 22:21

3y ago22:21

22:21

Join us for an incredible and encouraging conversation with Allison from Feed Youth Ministry Resources!Feed constructs FREE resources centered on core biblical convictions that the majority of evangelical protestants from different denominational backgrounds would agree with. They aim to help young people think about how they are supposed to live i…

1
Episode 73 - Summer of '21 38:59

3y ago38:59

38:59

Summer is here and it is shaping up to (yet again) be a summer like never before. Join Gina and Joe as they talk about camps, mission trips, getting rest, and stacking hands as a multisite team to leverage and build momentum this summer!By Multi Multi Podcast

1
Episode 72 - Hiring And Interviews 24:01

3y ago24:01

24:01

Gina is joined by a special guest host, Joe Graham, to discuss all things hiring and interviews. Tune in as they give practical tips, principles, and insight on best processes when it comes to either being interviewed of hiring on new staff within your multisite organization!By Multi Multi Podcast

1
Episode 71 - Lessons Learned with Gina Abbas 23:48

3y ago23:48

23:48

Joe interviews Gina to hear about all of the leadership lessons she has learned along the way as she's led in multisite ministry for over a decade. From staff culture to valuing volunteers to leading yourself well in difficult times, we hope you're encouraged by this conversation!By Multi Multi Podcast

1
Episode 70 - Meetings, Meetings, and More Meetings! 42:06

3y ago42:06

42:06

Meetings, meetings, and more meetings! Join Gina and Joe as they talk all about how to make meetings great, different meeting rhythms, and the one thing you should never do in a meeting!By Multi Multi Podcast

1
Episode 69 - Lessons Learned with Joe Crabb 31:27

3+ y ago31:27

31:27

Gina interviews Joe to hear about all of the leadership lessons he has learned along the way as he's led in multisite ministry for over a decade. From staff culture to valuing volunteers to leading yourself well in difficult times, we hope you're encouraged by this conversation!By Multi Multi Podcast

1
Episode 68 - Multisite Teaching Strategy 38:28

3+ y ago38:28

38:28

A conversation with Gina and Joe on different approaches when it comes to implementing a teaching strategy across the campuses. Whether it be using an already created curriculum, writing from scratch, video teaching, live communicators…there is much to consider and care for when it comes to teaching.…

1
Episode 67 - A Conversation with Kent Bjurstrom 35:47

3+ y ago35:47

35:47

Gina and Joe have a conversation with Kent Bjurstrom, the pastor of student ministries at Northview Church, a non-denominational church with 13 campuses throughout central Indiana, on equipping, empowering, and encouraging multisite staff, students, and family amid a COVID world. Kent shares the shifting staff dynamics and ministry models that have…

1
Episode 66 - The State of Multisite with Greg Ligon 34:06

3+ y ago34:06

34:06

Joe and Gina have an insightful and helpful conversation with Greg Ligon on the current state and future of multisite ministry.Greg also shares with us a free eBook called "Multisite Reimagined". This eBook peeks behind the curtain at churches that are expanding on this new reality of online multisite ministry rather than simply getting back to “no…

1
Episode 65 - Vince Parker of Life Church: Round 2 28:56

3+ y ago28:56

28:56

Vince Parker, the Central Ministry Leader of Switch, the student ministries of Life Church, join Gina and special co-host, Joe Graham, and they leave no stone unturned as they talk about ministry in a season of great disruption.From engaging students with online ministry to supporting a multisite staff to longtime shifts of ministry caused by COVID…

1
Episode 64 - Partner With and Presence @ Schools 35:16

3+ y ago35:16

35:16

A conversation with Gina and Joe on some of the best principles & practices for having a presence at and partnering with schools.Tune in as they share different ways that your multisite team can leverage their specific gifts in their unique campus contexts to empower students to further the reach of the ministry!…

1
Episode 63 - Spotlight: Tyler Bryan of Hope Community Church NC 24:16

3+ y ago24:16

24:16

A conversation with Tyler Bryan of Hope Community Church in North Carolina on collaborating and compromising with your student ministry team across the campuses to create a ministry that empowers leaders.https://www.instagram.com/hope.msm/https://gethope.net/msm/By Multi Multi Podcast

1
Episode 62 - Urban Ministry in a Suburban Multisite Model 33:48

3+ y ago33:48

33:48

Joe and Gina are joined by Denzel Wright, Student Pastor of Woodside Bible Church - Pontiac campus, to discuss the opportunities and difficulties that arise when translating and contextualizing a suburban ministry model to urban campuses.Tune in for an insightful conversation on how your multisite team can be better for each other as you look to sh…

1
Episode 61 - Scott Pontier of Ministry Architects 36:20

3+ y ago36:20

36:20

A conversation with Scott Pontier on creating healthy rhythms and disciplines for yourself and for your multisite staff. Scott also gives us some free consulting advice by sharing with us three things that your multisite team needs to be thinking about to become a healthier church.Scott is the Lead Pastor of the Jamestown campus of Harbor churches …

1
Episode 60 - Making Retreat/Trip Decisions for 2021 26:25

3+ y ago26:25

26:25

Gina and Joe give an unfiltered look into the conversations they’re having with their multisite team and leadership when it comes to making decisions for retreats and trips (hopefully) happening in 2021!By Multi Multi Podcast

1
Episode 59 - Follow Up: Whether They Come Once or Once in a While 26:42

3+ y ago26:42

26:42

A conversation with Gina and Joe on best practices for following up with students whether it is following up with a student whose come to your ministry for the first time or engaging with a student who hasn't come in a while.By Multi Multi Podcast

1
Episode 58 - Assimilation: Getting Students Plugged In 36:09

3+ y ago36:09

36:09

Tune in as Gina and Joe as they share tips, tricks, thoughts, and the troubles we face when it comes to assimilating students into the ministry! Join the conversation as they talk about language to use, empowering leaders, and leveraging the multisite team to help create a greater sense of belonging for students.…

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EJ Swanson Podcasts

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