Friends with Benefits

Sam and Jason Yarborough
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Welcome to Friends with Benefits, the business podcast about revenue-generating partnerships. Not "business time" with friends.This podcast is for those looking to build professional relationships that last and add tremendous value to your company and maybe even, you personally.Join hosts Jason and Sam Yarborough, who happen to be married, as they talk with some of the best in the industry.We will be tackling topics like what good partnerships looks like, how relationships can build immense value for your business, and why even though strategy, pipeline, and growth are the goals, it all comes down to relationships. Let’s face it, business is done person-to-person.Discover how personal connections transcend the boundaries of business time. Come hang out with us for inspiring stories, actionable strategies, and valuable insights that will empower you to forge meaningful partnerships in today’s competitive landscape.Because we all know, business time is personal.

  1. Why Better Communication Starts Before You Speak with Brittany Hart

    2D AGO

    Why Better Communication Starts Before You Speak with Brittany Hart

    Send us Fan Mail Better communication starts with understanding how people think, listen, and receive what you say. This week, we’re joined by Brittany Hart, Founder and CEO of Communiscape, for a conversation about what effective communication actually requires. Brittany shares how her work in large scale Salesforce implementations led her to a bigger realization: technology was rarely the issue. Teams were often missing the communication architecture needed to help people understand change, trust leadership, and move forward together. We talk with Brittany about why communication can feel easy with some people and surprisingly hard with others, what shifts when you’re running on a full tank versus an empty one, and why listening is often the part we miss. This one is practical, thoughtful, and a helpful reminder that small changes in how we communicate can have a big impact at work and at home. What you’ll learn: How Brittany’s four communication temperaments help explain the way people speak, process, and receive informationWhy communication changes when you’re operating from a full tank versus an empty oneHow the Five Terrains of Human Connection framework can help leaders create more clarity, trust, and better outcomes across teamsJump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (01:21) Meet Brittany Hart (05:02) Brittany’s origin story (07:19) Why communication breaks down (10:14) The four communication temperaments (16:01) Lessons on how to read the room (20:35) Operating on a full tank vs. empty tank (23:52) Becoming multilingual in communication (26:19) How to spot communication styles fast (28:19) What body language is telling you (29:48) Do similar communication styles clash (31:29) “Masking” in organizations and executive communication (36:15) The Five Terrains of Human Connection (40:18) How to deliver hard feedback well (43:04) Daily practices for better communication Connect with Brittany Hart: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittanyhart/  Check out Communiscape: https://www.communiscape.com/  Check out Arcadia: https://www.BeArcadia.com   Connect with Sam Yarborough: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-yarborough/  Connect with Jason Yarborough: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yarby/  Produced in partnership with Share Your Genius https://www.shareyourgenius.com

    58 min
  2. Why Smart Leaders Freeze Under Pressure with Angus Nelson

    APR 14

    Why Smart Leaders Freeze Under Pressure with Angus Nelson

    Send us Fan Mail We talk a lot about performance, but not nearly enough about what pressure does to the way we think, lead, and show up. This week, we’re joined by Angus Nelson, executive coach and author of Neuro Resilient Leader, for a conversation about what sits underneath pressure and performance. Angus shares why leaders who seem successful on the outside can still be operating from stress, scarcity, and survival mode, and why what looks like a strategy issue is often something deeper. We talk through his C3 framework and what it means to build real stability when everything feels fast and uncertain. Angus also reflects on his own story, and how identity, self trust, and daily inputs can keep us reactive or help us lead from a steadier place. This one will hit home for anyone who has been carrying too much and telling themselves to just push through. What you’ll learn: Why high performers can still get stuck when their nervous system is running the showHow Angus’ C3 framework helps leaders build more clarity, capacity, and composure under pressureWhy changing your inputs, beliefs, and daily practices can change the way you lead and liveJump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (03:59) Meet Angus Nelson (07:14) Redefining resilience and what to do with it (10:03) What to do when pressure starts running the show (11:43) Why self-awareness changes everything (14:06) The C3 framework for steadier leadership (18:19) Why hustle can’t build real capacity (20:10) Identity, power, and who you become (26:17) The shift from scarcity to freedom (32:26) Rewriting the inputs that shape you (37:45) The voice that says growth can feel dangerous (44:36) How to calm your body in the moment (50:20) Angus’ story of collapse and rebuilding (55:47) Why so many men choose isolation (01:00:28) Why being more human matters more now Connect with Angus Nelson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angusnelson/  Check out Angus’ website: https://angusnelson.com/  Check out the Neuro Resilient Leader: https://freebook.vip  Check out Arcadia: https://www.BeArcadia.com   Connect with Sam Yarborough: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-yarborough/  Connect with Jason Yarborough: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yarby/  Produced in partnership with Share Your Genius https://www.shareyourgenius.com

    1h 8m
  3. Unlock Peak Performance Through Sleep with Kristen Rainey

    APR 7

    Unlock Peak Performance Through Sleep with Kristen Rainey

    Send us Fan Mail Sleep is essential for high performance and well-being, yet it’s often overlooked. This week, we’re joined by Kristen Rainey, sleep expert and consultant, to discuss how quality rest can transform your health, productivity, and life. Kristen shares her journey from battling burnout to becoming an advocate for the power of sleep, explaining how it’s the foundation for optimal performance in both work and life. In this conversation, we go into the importance of sleep routines, the impact of habits like screen time and alcohol, and how to create an environment conducive to rest. Kristen highlights how many people believe they’re getting good sleep, only to discover they’re missing key components for truly restorative rest. Whether you’re struggling to get quality sleep or want to optimize your rest for better focus and resilience, this episode offers valuable tips to help you achieve a healthier, more productive lifestyle. NOTE: Our conversation on sleep got so intense that the building’s electrical grid decided to take a nap. The lights got cut near the end, but the mics stayed awake to bring you this unintentional ASMR session in the dark. After all, the show must go on! What you’ll learn: How sleep impacts performance, productivity, and overall well-beingKey habits that affect your sleep quality and how to improve themWhy creating a consistent sleep routine is essential for peak performance Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (04:21) Meet Kristen Rainey (06:18) Kristen’s career running food at Google (07:39) Burnout, the battery metaphor, and hitting the wall (11:25) Why sleep is the missing piece (13:22) Nighttime dos and don’ts for better sleep (15:53) How alcohol and REM sleep affect resilience connection (20:22) What works and doesn’t in sleep tracking technology (25:43) Sleep deprivation as a badge of honor and the cost of “getting by” (30:15) How poor sleep changes what you crave and why (38:02) Morning light, circadian rhythm, and the snooze button problem (40:58) The highest-leverage changes you can make starting tonight Connect with Kristen Rainey: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenrainey/  Check out Kristen’s website: https://kristenrainey.com/  Check out Arcadia: https://www.BeArcadia.com   Connect with Sam Yarborough: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-yarborough/  Connect with Jason Yarborough: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yarby/  Produced in partnership with Share Your Genius https://www.shareyourgenius.com

    59 min
  4. Transforming Your Brand’s Storytelling for Authentic Engagement with Ademola Adelakun

    MAR 31

    Transforming Your Brand’s Storytelling for Authentic Engagement with Ademola Adelakun

    Send us Fan Mail Great storytelling is at the heart of building authentic connections and trust with your audience. This week, we’re joined by Ademola Adelakun, CEO & Founder of content agency A2 Media, LinkedIn video creator, and magician, to discuss the powerful role storytelling plays in video marketing and brand trust. Ademola shares his journey from creating magic tricks to mastering the art of video content, showing how brands can transform their marketing by telling stories that resonate with viewers on a deeper level. In this conversation, we explore the key principles of compelling video content, the emotional engagement needed to capture attention, and why so much of today’s content feels flat. Ademola explains how brands can move away from generic messaging, how to build trust with your audience, and why making videos that speak directly to people’s experiences is the key to success. Whether you're looking to create more impactful content, foster customer loyalty, or elevate your brand’s storytelling, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you connect with your audience like never before. What you’ll learn: How storytelling in video can transform brand trust and customer loyaltyHow to create videos that speak directly to your audience and build deeper connectionsWhy emotional engagement is crucial for standing out in today’s crowded marketJump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (01:57) Meet Ademola Adelakun (03:39) How Snapchat fame led to content careers (06:04) Why magic tricks and brand trust work the same way (09:31) Storytelling is a learned skill and transformation is the key (15:57) Why video is the bridge to trust (17:51) What most brands fundamentally misunderstand about trust (22:03) The tension between enterprise and having fun (25:49) AI-generated content and how it can erode trust (30:42) How a Nigerian upbringing shaped his "ask why" approach (37:22) The real version of success Ademola is chasing (43:31) Advice to his younger self Connect with Ademola Adelakun: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ademola-adelakun/  Check out A2 Media: https://a2media.ca/  Check out The Connections Course: https://www.artofaccomplishment.com/course/the-connection-course  Check out Arcadia: https://www.BeArcadia.com   Connect with Sam Yarborough: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-yarborough/  Connect with Jason Yarborough: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yarby/  Produced in partnership with Share Your Genius https://www.shareyourgenius.com

    49 min
  5. Breaking Free from Burnout and Finding Balance with Jenn James

    MAR 24

    Breaking Free from Burnout and Finding Balance with Jenn James

    Send us Fan Mail The most successful high performers know that success isn’t just about results, it’s about understanding the mind and body connection.  This week, we’re joined by Jenn James, Founder and Chief Growth Expert at Fresh Demand, and an expert in the neuroscience of change, to discuss how to break free from burnout, rewire your brain, and achieve lasting success without sacrificing your health. Jenn shares her journey from corporate burnout to teaching others how to overcome stress and anxiety while maintaining high performance. In this conversation, we dive deep into the neuroscience behind stress, the role of emotional intelligence, and how your thoughts and behaviors create your personal reality. Jenn explains how to recognize the patterns that hold you back, why change is more about rewiring the mind than changing your environment, and how to make conscious choices that support your well-being. Whether you're looking to improve your leadership, break through mental barriers, or simply thrive in high-pressure environments, this episode offers practical tools to help you transform your mindset and live a more balanced life. What you’ll learn: Why high performers often struggle with stress and burnout despite successWhy emotional intelligence and self-awareness are key to lasting personal changeHow to rewire your brain to break free from negative patterns and stress loopsJump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (01:51) Meet Jenn James (05:30) The burnout that changed everything (05:58) Discovering the neuroscience of change (10:06) Why stress feels like the price of admission (12:17) Your personality creates your personal reality (14:09) How stress hijacks your brain and body (20:06) We’re addicted to our own stress chemicals (22:24) How to begin to change and define a future self (31:34) Breath, meditation, and rewiring the brain (35:36) How unprocessed stress shapes team culture Connect with Jenn James: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennjjames/  Check out Jenn James’ website: https://jennjames.io/  Check out Fresh Demand: https://freshdemandco.com/  Check out Arcadia: https://www.BeArcadia.com   Connect with Sam Yarborough: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-yarborough/  Connect with Jason Yarborough: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yarby/  Produced in partnership with Share Your Genius https://www.shareyourgenius.com

    50 min
  6. Building Teams, Brands, and a Life You Actually Want with Kyle Lacy

    MAR 17

    Building Teams, Brands, and a Life You Actually Want with Kyle Lacy

    Send us Fan Mail The strongest leaders don’t separate performance from people, they know the two rise and fall together. This week, we’re sitting down with our friend Kyle Lacy, CMO at Docebo, to talk about leadership, identity, ambition, and what it takes to build a big career without losing yourself in the process. Kyle has always been someone we admire for how openly he talks about work, family, writing, health, and the tension of trying to hold it all at once. In this conversation, we get into the cost of making work your whole identity, what burnout really looked like for him after a major career high, and how he’s built better rhythms without pretending he doesn’t love to work. We also dig into Kyle’s approach to leadership and why so much of the real work has nothing to do with dashboards or tactics. He shares how he sets expectations with new hires, what it means to build a team culture people can actually feel, and why listening might be the most underrated leadership skill there is. We talk about brand building too, from the golden llamas to creating experiences people remember because they’re thoughtful, creative, and human.  What you’ll learn: Why burnout often looks like a slow drift, not one dramatic breaking point  How clear expectations, real listening, and visible values help teams trust their leaders Why memorable brands come from creativity, taste, and experiences people actually care aboutJump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (03:43) Meet Kyle Lacy (05:25) Showing up fully online and in life (09:11) Why telling your story builds your career (12:20) How Kyle leads a new team (14:55) The expectations that define his culture (18:32) The burnout that changed everything (24:07) Why leaders have to model balance (26:11) The habits helping Kyle avoid burnout (30:16) Making peace with ambition (32:30) Why creativity still wins in B2B (37:43) The Golden Llama story (39:42) The kind of leader he wants to be Connect with Kyle Lacy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylelacy/  Check out Docebo: https://www.docebo.com/  Check out Arcadia: https://www.BeArcadia.com   Connect with Sam Yarborough: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-yarborough/  Connect with Jason Yarborough: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yarby/  Produced in partnership with Share Your Genius https://www.shareyourgenius.com

    44 min
  7. From Awkward Hellos to Real Friends with Sam and Jason Yarborough

    MAR 10

    From Awkward Hellos to Real Friends with Sam and Jason Yarborough

    Send us Fan Mail Adult friendship isn’t hard because we don’t want it, it’s hard because we don’t know where to start. This week, it’s just us, and we’re talking about the thing we’ve both had to admit out loud lately: making friends as an adult can feel weirdly hard. Sam shares why she set an actual goal to create more spaces for connection and why it feels like we’ve lost the “third place” where friendships used to happen naturally.  We get into what’s really getting in the way, including the connection crisis we’re living in, how social media can mess with your head, and why putting your phone down is sometimes the first brave move. Then we talk tactics: find one person, lead with curiosity, use simple “how” and “what” questions, and actually follow up when you meet someone you like.   What you’ll learn: Why adult friendships often stall out after the first conversation and how to break the awkward cycleHow to start better conversations using “how” and “what” questions that invite real connectionHow to turn a good chat into an actual friendship through intentional follow up and shared experiencesJump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (02:41) Why making friends as a grown up feels so hard (06:07) What Bozeman Nights taught us about community (07:51) Getting past the awkward and making the first move (09:08) Social media, loneliness, and the connection crisis (15:28) Digital detox, boundaries, and getting your time back (24:48) Better questions that lead to real connection (28:37) How to turn a good chat into a real friend (31:40) Bond through experiences, not just conversation (32:57) Create rituals that make connection automatic (35:03) Hosting with intention so community doesn’t fall flat (41:05) Loneliness, courage, and putting yourself out there (43:20) Real community over followers every time Check out Arcadia: https://www.BeArcadia.com   Connect with Sam Yarborough: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-yarborough/  Connect with Jason Yarborough: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yarby/  Produced in partnership with Share Your Genius https://www.shareyourgenius.com

    49 min
  8. Choosing Discomfort to Find Connection with D’Art Strickland

    MAR 3

    Choosing Discomfort to Find Connection with D’Art Strickland

    Send us Fan Mail Everybody wants more friends, but nobody knows how to make them. This week, we’re joined by D’Art Strickland, Senior Solutions Marketing Manager at BigID, to talk about something most of us feel but rarely admit: it’s hard to make friends as a grown-up. After a major life shift left him sitting on the couch wondering what changed, D’Art decided to get uncomfortable. From “Dinner with Strangers” to driving Uber for human conversation, he began intentionally pursuing connection, not because it was easy, but because it mattered. His work in enablement mirrors the same philosophy: move from transactional to relational, lead with curiosity, and remember that we’re human first. In this conversation, we explore why everyone wants more friends but no one knows how to make them, how bravery and vulnerability go hand in hand, and what it means to reclaim your “sparkle.” D’Art shares how small, intentional acts of courage, even just walking into the bar instead of driving past it can shift isolation into belonging. What you’ll learn: Why making friends as an adult feels so hard and what to do about itThe difference between transactional and relational living at work and in lifeHow curiosity fuels confidence, storytelling, and deeper human connectionJump into the conversation: (00:00) Introduction (04:16) Bingo night energy: inside jokes and setting the tone (05:07) Sales enablement explained: from black hole to confidence builder (09:53) ‘D’Art and the Deal’: building confidence through community (16:22) Making friends as a remote adult: dinners with strangers & Uber (25:13) Connected yet disconnected: the cultural tension (+ ALX break) (28:12) Why adult friendships feel hard and the need for third places (28:28) Building community on purpose: the Bozeman Knights experiment (29:06) Bravery by default: choosing discomfort over comfort (29:45) Acquaintance vs. friend: the phone number barrier (32:15) Why asking feels awkward (for men and women) (35:18) The dive bar story: you can’t fail by trying (40:17) Health, fun, and finding the sparkle again (43:39) Facilitating connection at work and the call to be human Connect with D’Art Strickland: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dartstrickland/  Check out BigID: https://bigid.com/  Check out Arcadia: https://www.BeArcadia.com   Connect with Sam Yarborough: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-yarborough/  Connect with Jason Yarborough: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yarby/  Produced in partnership with Share Your Genius https://www.shareyourgenius.com

    54 min
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About

Welcome to Friends with Benefits, the business podcast about revenue-generating partnerships. Not "business time" with friends.This podcast is for those looking to build professional relationships that last and add tremendous value to your company and maybe even, you personally.Join hosts Jason and Sam Yarborough, who happen to be married, as they talk with some of the best in the industry.We will be tackling topics like what good partnerships looks like, how relationships can build immense value for your business, and why even though strategy, pipeline, and growth are the goals, it all comes down to relationships. Let’s face it, business is done person-to-person.Discover how personal connections transcend the boundaries of business time. Come hang out with us for inspiring stories, actionable strategies, and valuable insights that will empower you to forge meaningful partnerships in today’s competitive landscape.Because we all know, business time is personal.

Information

  • Creator
    Sam and Jason Yarborough
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    90
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Friends with Benefits
  • Show Website
    Friends with Benefits