The Work Flow Podcast

Sam Magnant and Derek Bisson

Sam Magnant & Derek Bisson explore how stuff really gets done in the working world. They share stories and interview top talent in tech and business, providing frameworks and advice that can be used in real life, on the job, every day.

  1. 05/30/2025

    How to Build a Culture of Accountability

    Ep. 50 - In this conversation, the hosts delve into the concept of accountability in the workplace, discussing its common misconceptions and the importance of establishing clear expectations, transparency, and effective project management. They emphasize that accountability should not be associated with fear or punitive measures but rather with a culture of support and clarity. The discussion also highlights the significance of project management in ensuring team success and the need for consistent communication and relationship-building among team members. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the critical aspects of effective communication and accountability in project management. They emphasize the importance of transparency, timely updates, and the need for individuals to take ownership of their roles within a project. The discussion also covers the challenges of navigating office politics and the significance of building strong relationships to facilitate escalations when necessary. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the empowerment that comes from taking responsibility and fostering a psychologically safe environment for open communication. 00:00 Understanding Accountability in the Workplace05:08 The Triangle of Accountability14:51 Project Management and Accountability20:18 The Importance of Transparency24:01 Effective Communication in Project Management31:47 The Importance of Accountability and Response46:41 Navigating Escalations and Office Politics -------------------------------------------------------------- For more tips, frameworks and episode summaries follow the Work Flow Podcast on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-work-flow-podcast/?viewAsMember=true and on Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@TheWorkFlowPodcast If you have feedback about the show, or ideas for topics youd like us to cover, shoot us an email at workflowshow@gmail.com

    39 min
  2. 05/01/2025

    Quiet Work Doesn’t Win — How to Be Seen, Heard, and Promoted

    Ep.48 - In this episode of The Workflow Podcast, Sam and Derek take on a tough truth: in today’s workplace, visibility often matters more than talent alone. They explore why too many high performers stay stuck — not because they lack skill, but because they lack visibility. The conversation kicks off with a hot take on HR's real role in modern companies, then pivots into a powerful framework for professional growth: how to promote your work without the cringe. They tackle the misconception that humility equals silence, and show how strategic self-promotion, when done right, creates trust, momentum, and opportunity. This episode introduces the “Comms, Convo, and Prezo” method — a simple, repeatable playbook to make your work seen, your name remembered, and your impact undeniable. Through stories, frameworks, and battle-tested tactics, Sam and Derek reveal why being too quiet can cost you a raise, a promotion, or even credit for your own work — and what to do instead. Whether you're early in your career or climbing into leadership, this episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to break out of the background. -------------------------------------------------------------- For more tips, frameworks and episode summaries follow the Work Flow Podcast on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-work-flow-podcast/?viewAsMember=true and on Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@TheWorkFlowPodcast If you have feedback about the show, or ideas for topics youd like us to cover, shoot us an email at workflowshow@gmail.com

    41 min
  3. 04/17/2025

    How to Talk So People Listen: Using Your Voice As An Instrument

    In this episode of The Workflow Podcast, Sam and Derek delve into the transformative power of vocal presence. They explore how mastering the five Vocal Foundations of Great Communication—rate of speech, volume, pitch, tonality, and pausing—can elevate your interactions, both professionally and personally. Drawing from expert insights and real-life experiences, they unpack why communication is the ultimate competitive advantage in today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world. Whether you're leading a presentation, navigating a tough conversation, or just trying to hold your audience’s attention, this episode equips you with practical tools to make every word count. Sam and Derek share stories about the dynamics of energy matching, the emotional impact of tone, and the fine art of engaging listeners by adjusting vocal patterns. They also reflect on their own successes and challenges in presentations and offer tips on how to practice and refine these skills to build confidence and connection. If you’ve ever felt like your message wasn’t landing or wondered how to make your voice a more powerful tool, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you stand out. Key Takeaways: The Five core components: Understand how rate of speech, volume, pitch, tonality, and pausing work together to shape your message.Energy Matching 101: Learn how to adapt your vocal dynamics to connect with any audience or conversation partner.The Power of Pauses: Discover why silence can often speak louder than words in making your points resonate.Pitch Perfect: How to use high and low tones to convey confidence, authenticity, and emotion.Emotional Delivery: Enhance your impact by combining body language with vocal techniques for a complete presentation package.Practice for Progress: Actionable steps to record, critique, and improve your vocal delivery over time.Overcoming Nerves: Strategies to slow down, focus, and regain control when anxiety strikes during speaking engagements.Communication as a Superpower: Why mastering vocal presence is essential for building relationships, advancing careers, and standing out in the age of AI. -------------------------------------------------------------- For more tips, frameworks and episode summaries follow the Work Flow Podcast on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-work-flow-podcast/?viewAsMember=true and on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/workflowshow/ If you have feedback about the show, or ideas for topics youd like us to cover, shoot us an email at workflowshow@gmail.com

    44 min
  4. 03/20/2025

    The Secret Language of Charisma – How Small Cues Make a Big Impact

    Ep. 45 - In this episode of The Workflow Podcast, Sam and Derek break down the science of charisma—what makes someone compelling, influential, and effortlessly engaging. They explore the hidden cues that drive human connection, from body language to vocal inflection, and how mastering these small details can transform the way you communicate. Using research-backed insights from Vanessa Van Edwards, they discuss warmth and competence—the two key ingredients to becoming instantly more likable and respected. Whether you want to stand out in meetings, hold attention in conversations, or simply leave a stronger impression, this episode is packed with practical takeaways to level up your presence. Sam and Derek also dive into common communication mistakes—like weak handshakes, poor posture, and the dreaded upward inflection—and provide simple fixes to immediately boost confidence and authority. If you’ve ever wondered why some people command a room effortlessly while others struggle to be heard, this episode will give you the tools to speak the secret language of charisma. 00:00 – Introduction: Sam and Derek set the stage for charisma and communication cues. 00:54 – Communication Cues: Most communication relies on non-verbal cues rather than just words. 02:16 – What are Cues?: Cues guide behavior; explained with a fitness analogy. 03:34 – Charisma Factors: Charisma is defined by warmth and competence. 07:47 – Likability Research: Likable people exhibit warmth cues, fostering positive responses. 09:25 – Enhancing Warmth: Awareness and small tweaks can increase your approachability. 13:40 – Signaling Competence: Competence is shown through body language and tone. 20:23 – Eye Contact: Strategic eye contact enhances engagement and credibility. 30:00 – Developing Charisma: Charisma can be learned through consistent practice. 54:00 – Mastering the Handshake: Tips on creating a confident and comfortable handshake. -------------------------------------------------------------- For more tips, frameworks and episode summaries follow the Work Flow Podcast on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-work-flow-podcast/?viewAsMember=true and on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/workflowshow/ If you have feedback about the show, or ideas for topics youd like us to cover, shoot us an email at workflowshow@gmail.com

    56 min
  5. 03/06/2025

    The Battle for Your Calendar – Makers vs. Managers & The Cost of Time

    In this episode of The Workflow Podcast, Sam and Derek dive into one of the biggest struggles in professional life: time management. Whether you’re a maker who thrives on deep focus work or a manager whose day is packed with meetings, your calendar is the battlefield where productivity is won or lost. They break down the Maker vs. Manager time dilemma—why meetings are often the enemy of creative work and how context switching drains your energy. They also share strategies for protecting your time, setting boundaries, and optimizing your schedule so you can actually get things done. From blocking out deep work sessions to negotiating meeting invites, this episode is packed with actionable tips for taking back control of your day. If you’ve ever felt like your time isn’t your own or that meetings are eating away at your productivity, this episode is a must-listen. _______ Timestamps: 03:27 – The Reality of Time Scarcity 07:32 – Guarding Your Calendar: Blocking Time 12:01 – Common Career Misconceptions About Meetings 19:21 – The Power of Time Blocking 30:00 – Setting Expectations for Maker Time 40:00 – The Problem With Inefficient Meetings -------------------------------------------------------------- For more tips, frameworks and episode summaries follow the Work Flow Podcast on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-work-flow-podcast/?viewAsMember=true and on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/workflowshow/ If you have feedback about the show, or ideas for topics youd like us to cover, shoot us an email at workflowshow@gmail.com

    37 min
  6. 02/20/2025

    The Tax Accountant Turned Multi-Millionare and How Human Skills Paved The Way

    Ep. 43 - In this episode of The Work Flow Podcast, Sam and Derek dive deep into the fascinating rise and fall of Ryan Salame, a tax accountant who found his place in the fast-paced world of crypto. This isn’t just about the headlines of the FTX scandal; it’s about the human side of Ryan’s story—his journey of connection, charisma, and the important lessons we can take from both his successes and his struggles. As a former colleague, Sam shares insights into Ryan’s exceptional ability to connect with people, a skill that played a major role in his meteoric rise in the crypto industry. His authenticity and leadership skills were crucial in building relationships that opened doors to incredible opportunities. Sam and Derek talk about how crucial it is to develop strong human skills—those interpersonal abilities that push us forward in our careers. But just as important is understanding the balance. Emotional intelligence, empathy, and leadership are powerful tools, but they need to be paired with self-awareness, boundaries, and a sustainable approach to success. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills, learn from Ryan’s story, or better navigate the balance of ambition and self-care, this episode has a wealth of insights to apply to both your personal and professional life. 00:00 - IntroductionKickoff podcast on growth and Ryan Salame’s journey. 00:45 - FTX OverviewRecap of FTX scandal and Sam Bankman-Fried’s downfall. 02:56 - Ryan Salame’s BackgroundJourney of Ryan from tax accountant to crypto leader. 07:12 - Connection with SamRyan meets Sam Bankman-Fried in Hong Kong. 09:45 - Importance of Human SkillsRyan’s charisma and emotional intelligence drive his success. 20:40 - Intentional Skill ImprovementTips on developing interpersonal skills from Ryan’s story. 27:20 - Lessons LearnedDangers of overcommitment and the need for boundaries. 30:25 - Closing ThoughtsWrap-up on Ryan’s story and reflections for growth. -------------------------------------------------------------- For more tips, frameworks and episode summaries follow the Work Flow Podcast on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-work-flow-podcast/?viewAsMember=true and on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/workflowshow/ If you have feedback about the show, or ideas for topics youd like us to cover, shoot us an email at workflowshow@gmail.com

    32 min

Ratings & Reviews

4.6
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Sam Magnant & Derek Bisson explore how stuff really gets done in the working world. They share stories and interview top talent in tech and business, providing frameworks and advice that can be used in real life, on the job, every day.