Brad Szollose
CEO Brad Szollose International
- Bay Shore NY
Cross-Generational Leadership Development. Customized Workshops, Training & Executive Coaching for Talent Development.
Media
Social
Biography
Brad Szollose's (pronounced zol-us), is a globally recognized Leadership Development and Management Consultant who helps organizations dominate their industry by tapping into the treasure of a multi-generational workforce.
He shares his management strategies within the pages of his award-winning, international bestseller Liquid Leadership...strategies that ignited his own company, K2 Design, beginning as a business idea in a coffee shop to a publicly traded company worth $26 Million in just 24 short months with an IPO on NASDAQ.
As a C-Level executive, his unique management model was awarded the Arthur Andersen NY Enterprise Award for Best Practices in Fostering Innovation Amongst Employees (the phrase Workforce Culture did not exist back then).
Today the world’s leading business publications seek out Brad’s insights on Millennials, and he has been featured in Forbes, Inc., The Huffington Post, New York Magazine, Advertising Age, The International Business Times, Le Journal du Dimanche and The Hindu Business Line to name a few, along with television, radio and podcast appearances on CBS and other media outlets.
Since the year 2010, and the release of his award-winning international bestseller, Liquid Leadership, Brad has created customized training programs for The American Management Association, Tony Robbins Business Mastery Graduates and Liquidnet Holdings, as well as several dozen Fortune 500 companies to name just a few; preparing them for the next generation of business leaders.
Mr. Szollose is also a TEDXSpeaker, and his talk The Age of Radical Disruption, focuses on the impact video games and serious gaming has had on the work habits and behavior of Generation X & Millennials.
Brad’s programs have transformed a new generation of business leaders, helping them maximize their corporate culture, creativity, innovation, productivity and sales growth in the new Digital Age economy.
Industry Expertise
Areas of Expertise
Accomplishments
Webinar for Tony Robbins Business Mastery Graduates
2016-07-26
Cracking The Millennial Code: How Understanding Each Generation Will Make Your Company Thrive!!!
Chad Cooper engages Brad Szollose in a powerful workshop on understanding Millennials for increased productivity and retention.
https://goto.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1111473
TEDxTalk
2016-07-12
The Age of Radical Disruption:
How Millennials and Serious Gaming Will Transform the Future of Everything. TEDXTarrytown
https://www.ted.com/tedx/events/19307
How to Lead in the Digital Age – Fall Seminar RSVP BHS
2014-10-08
Wednesday, October 8th, 2014, I am inviting you to join me at the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park for The BHS Fall Speaker Series. I will be driving an open keynote session about Millennials, and mainly, How To Lead Your People in The Digital Age!
Here is the poster below and the link for you to sign up. We are almost sold out, so get your tickets quickly: http://liquidleadership.blogspot.com/2014/10/who-is-joining-me-this-wed-oct-8th-2014.html
Ultimate Mastermind Summit 2014
2014-09-18
This 2 day event attracts the top speakers in the country with the focus on building a winning Mindset, developing Marketing proficiency and the critical skills to sell yourself and your ideas in today's digitally savvy world.
The live mastermind experience is sure to leave you with a new perspective of what is possible, but more importantly, help break the shackles of what is keeping you from the success you deserve.
http://ultimatemastermindsummit.com/brad-szollose/
First Degree Black Belt: Modern Kempo Jujitsu
2014-02-01
After 5 years of training, 10 belt tests, 3 broken ribs, one broken toe, knocked out once, I passed my black belt test in 3 and a half hours.
Guest Speaker for the FIRST Think & Grow Rich Summit 2013
2013-04-26
Invited to be Guest Speaker at the first inaugural Think & Grow Rich Summit honoring Napoleon Hill's work...on the same stage with Jeffrey Gitomer, Sharon Lechter and John Assaraf. What an honor as I tell my story about Outwitting The Devil: Overcoming Doubt. Got a standing ovation...
Liquid Leadership signs deal with Korean Publisher
2012-06-20
Liquid Leadership has been out for almost a year and a half now, was picked up by Prolibris Publishing in India and now UI Publishing is translating Liquid Leadership into Korean for release next year!!!
Liquid Leadership - Amazon Bestseller
2011-12-03
Liquid Leadership: From Woodstock to Wikipedia hits the #1 Bestseller Category on Amazon in Organizational Learning for Business.
2011 Axiom Business Books Silver Medal Award for Leadership
Liquid Leadership: From Woodstock to Wikipedia wins the silver medal in the leadership category against over 377 authors in 67 categories. Official medal presentation ceremony was held in New York City during the Book Expo. http://tinyurl.com/3vxzddc
2010 Lebanon School District Distinguished Alumnus Award
Brad receives The Distinguished Alumnus Award from his Alma Mater, Lebanon Senior High School for his pioneering work on The Internet during the Dot Com Boom of the mid 90s.
Arthur Andersen NY Enterprise Award for Best Practices in Fostering Innovation Among Employees
David Centner and Brad Szollose attend formal acceptance luncheon at The Four Seasons in New York City hosted by Arthur Andersen, to receive the Best Practices Award for developing a unique management model for innovation at their now publicly held company K2 Design, Inc. This model was voted as Best Practices by their Generation Y Workforce at K2.
1996 - K2 Design IPO on NASDAQ
1996-07-26
Co-founded K2 Design, Inc. Raised over $7 million through private placement and an IPO (Initial Public Offering). 425% growth for 5 straight years, expanded from 2 business partners to 4 and expanded to 60+ employees and offices worldwide. Valuated at over $26 million.
Arthur Andersen NY Enterprise Award for Best Practices for Fostering Innovation Among Employees awarded to K2 for the development a unique management model.
Education
Art Institute of Pittsburgh
Associate
Visual Communications
1984
Specialized Technology Degree: Graphic Design, Marketing and Advertising. GPA 3.4.
NYU
N/A
Management Classes
1996
Continuing Education: Management courses.
Affiliations
- National Speakers Association: Professional Member
Testimonials
Founder
https://goto.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1111473Tony Robbins Company
Brad Szollose gave an outstanding presentation to our Business Mastery Graduates. No one knows Millennials or cross-generational management better than Brad, and it shows; our attendees are still talking about his work.
Head of Learning and Organizational Development
http://www.liquidnet.com/Liquidnet Holdings, Inc.
"Brad Szollose is a true partner in our quest for world-class Leadership and People Management. Over the past year Brad has worked to co-design and deliver a cutting edge experience for our top employees, this includes our C-Suite.
The results have been astounding. Not only are we as an organization more knowledgeable about the different generations in the work force, we have clear actions on how to get ahead of the ever changing world. We now have a common language and framework we can all use. Our People Managers are more confident in their abilities to keep engagements and productivity high.
I find Brad to be incredibly flexible, collaborative and a true partner to our organization. I fully endorse Brad and would be happy to talk with anyone who wants more information."
Founding Partner/Principal Vicus Partners
http://www.vistagenewyork.com/Vistage NYC Chapter monthly Meeting
"Hearing Brad speak and then reading his book blew my mind. Here I am thinking my way is better than theirs (the 20-somethings) and it's a matter of time before they wake up, smell the coffee and get on my program... but what I didn't realize is there's been a paradigm shift like you wouldn't believe and I'm the one who needs to wake up.
Best presentation I've heard in ages...it literally changed the way I think.”
President and CEO
http://www.medmarc.com/Pages/default.aspxMedmarc Insurance Group
"Dear Brad,
I am writing to thank you for your recent presentation at Medmarc’s annual broker meeting in Las Vegas. Your observations about generational behavioral styles and related values were enlightening and timely.
As you probably observed by looking at the meeting attendees, the insurance industry is “graying” and we need to attract and retain more Generation X, Y and Millennials to remain vibrant and relevant to our customers. Armed with a better understanding of how these groups think and what motivates them, we are far more likely to be successful.
Your observations and your book are invaluable to that understanding.
Thank you again for your contribution to our meeting…"
Vice President Events
http://www.htstaffing.com/content/ht-staffing-attend-2012-annual-ahrma-conferenceAustin Human Resources Management Association
"I've sat through a million of these keynote addresses. Its early in the morning, its usually the same message presented by some pretty great speakers, but still the same message. Not so much with your presentation (Brad). Your experience with handling the generational gap with humor and understanding is surely why your results have been so successful.
I enjoyed the presentation a great deal. Mainly because you were talking about me! I grew up with Star Wars and Atari. I understand the "corporate ladder". Today I find myself managing very young and VERY talented professionals who seek success, same as me, but they want it RIGHT NOW! Your message helped me understand where they are coming from and I have since been able to connect!"
Principal, cofounder of Koorbis
http://www.clientsforlifeconsulting.com/TNC Business Development Breakfast
"Brad opened our firm’s eyes to the difference in generational work styles. Having once thought it was a communication issue, we came to realize it was far deeper than that all thanks to Brad! Since applying Brad’s principles, business has increased significantly as it helped get the executive team more comfortable with the idea of a digital office and more importantly the knowledge Brad shared with us helped the relationships in the office to flourish. If you have multiple generations represented in your office and are looking to increase productivity, I would strongly recommend Brad Szollose!"
Founder
http://www.totalnetworkingandconsulting.com/Total Networking & Consulting
"Dear Brad:
I feel compelled to communicate to you how beneficial your seminars have been for our members of Total Networking & Consulting.
It has raised their individual awareness in Business Development. The value that they have experienced from your coaching is invaluable.
Thank you,
Bruce"
Radio Host
http://experiencepros.com/radio/Experience Pros Business Radio
"Thank you so much for contributing to our show today. You're a fun guest, with lots of great stories. We really enjoyed your interview."
Executive Director
http://www.mpca.net/Michigan Primary Care Associations
"I want to thank you so very much for your participation in our 2011 Annual Conference. Not only did you provide a highly enlightening and engaging general session, you also provided signed copies of Liquid Leadership, stayed and participated in all our other sessions AND rode the Crystal Slide! What more could we have asked?
Our membership and staff really appreciated having an opportunity to get to know you. Brad we look forward to continuing this friendship in the future. Please don't hesitate to let me know if we can be of any assistance to you as you continue your research into life as we know it!
Once again, thank you for everything."
Sales Associate Northwesten
http://www.northwesternmutual.com/MindCapture Bootcamp Attendee
"I attended a "boot camp" last week and had the opportunity to meet and get acquainted with the author, Brad Szollose. When I listened to Brad speak, I thought of you and the work you are doing with Team Selling. I felt called to buy the book, have Brad sign it, and forward it to you.
I think Brad's research and knowledge of generation Y make him an invaluable resource to help promote the value of Team Selling. I also think that Liquid Leadership can help Northwestern Mutual better serve the generation Y market, both as policy-owners and as Financial Representatives."
Media Appearances
Top 10 Business Trends That Will Drive Success In 2016
Forbes online
2015-12-01
2. Smart Businesses Will Shift From Complaining About To Embracing Millennials
"Brad Szollose, author of Liquid Leadership and an expert on generational leadership development says, “Millennials want to work for companies they can be proud of, and buy products from companies that give a damn about the things that matter most to them.” Szollose adds, “The reason companies must start embracing Millennials instead of rejecting them is simple; Boomers will be forced to retire soon. This leadership exodus will leave a leadership gap like we’ve never seen before. Since Generation X is much smaller demographically than Millennials, who do you think will be the dominant force competing for those positions? Millennials.”
Brad Szollose Changing The World One Millennial Entrepreneur At A Time
Creating Genius Magazine online
2015-02-25
Former C-level executive of a publicly traded company that went from entrepreneurial start-up to IPO in three years taking the first Dot Com Agency public in an IPO on NASDAQ. Szollose is also the #1 Bestselling and Award Winning Author of Liquid Leadership: From Woodstock to Wikipedia — Multigenerational Management Ideas That Are Changing the Way We Run Things.
With real life experience in the field on entrepreneurial advancement, Szollose looks to help those emerging into the corporate world with his experiences. He values education through experience to help create awareness of the changing ways businesses have to function.
Stop Running Your Business Like It's 1969
CMSWire online
2014-11-17
"The digital age requires a smarter worker. In today’s world, we make very sophisticated stuff that does not conform to simple rules. Responsibility, troubleshooting and decision-making have all moved to the frontline. This requires open-source style communication," Brad said.
Bridging the Generational Chasm
Understanding The Millennial Mindset
Well Servicing Magazine online
2014-09-01
Brad Szollose weighs-in on the much needed infusion of talent from the next generation in the oil and gas industries. An industry that has had a SUDDEN upsurge in Millennial interest...
Nintendo Game Boy At 25; The Console That Stood Out Among Many
International Business Times online
2014-08-21
Gaming reporter asks Brad Szollose some key questions about the iconic portable game that launch a gaming obsession.
75 Inspiring Motivational Quotes on Leadership
Inc. Magazine online
2014-08-04
Jeff Haden of Inc. Magazine compiles his list of 75 favorite motivational quotes on leadership...Brad Szollose made the list at #38: "If you really want the key to success, start by doing the opposite of what everyone else is doing."
The Jordan Rich Show
WBZ 1030 News Radio/CBS Boston radio
2011-08-05
Jordan Rich Interviews generational expert, web pioneer and business author Brad Szollose after reading his book Liquid Leadership: From Woodstock to Wikipedia.
“This is not really a business book but a book that affects teachers, parents and business people alike.” - Jordan Rich
Your Career May Have Already Peaked
Details Magazine print
2008-07-01
Details Magazine – June/July 2008
Brad Szollose is interviewed by Katie Hintz concerning Eliot Spitzer and the lack of morals and ethics in today’s leadership…and what to do when you are in the hot seat as a high-profile leader.
“Here, leadership consultant Brad Szollose explains how not to choke when you become CEO. THE PROBLEM: Lack of Guidance “You’ve got to have advisers you trust,” Szollose says. “They won’t say the nicest things, but they’re going to help…” – from page 118
Shuffle Reflects K2 Growing Pains
New York Post print
1997-11-30
New York Post – November, 30th 1997
Shuffle Reflects K2 Growing Pains
How Brad Szollose’s resignation affects K2’s stock price and the future of leadership within the organization.
NY POST
SHUFFLE REFLECTS K2 GROWING PAINS
By MARY HUHN
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
K2 Design, a four-year-old full-service interactive agency, is experiencing some growing pains.
Brad Szollose, who founded the company with Douglas Cleek, who is now chief creative director, stepped down from his position as co-creative director last week. Szollose will remain on the board of the directors.
"When I started K2, I wanted it to be smaller than it is," said Szollose. "The day-to-day management is not my forte. I helped put in some of the management team so I could step down."
Szollose, who started the company with Cleek in 1993, is still on the board of directors.
Wall Streets Other Boom
New York Magazine print
1996-11-06
Brad is interviewed along with Bill Rudin and others about finding space in Silicon Alley, NYC during The Dot Com Boom.
Fear Creates Strange Bedfellows
Advertising Age print
1995-03-13
In 1995 Advertising Age Brad Szollose is featured with his then business partners and an expose on how K2, partners with MIT programers and a new wave of digital publishers.
How to Sell Your Ideas to Millennials
Forbes online
2015-10-06
If you want to sell your ideas to any audience, you need to understand how they think. I spoke with some of the most respected minds when it comes to Millennials to try and uncover how they are wired, and how to capture their hearts and minds.
Event Appearances
Cracking The Generational Code
Allstate CSE Leadership Conference Williamsburg, VA
2016-08-04
Strategy Session With Brad Szollose
Tony Robbins Business Mastery Global
2016-07-26
The Age of Radical Disruption | Brad Szollose | TEDxTarrytown
TED Talk Tarrytown, NY
2016-07-12
Bridging The Generational Divide
Connect 4 Presents: “ Bridging the Generational Divide”, Tuesday April 12, 8am-11am, The Cornell Club, 6 East 44th Street Cornell Club, NYC
2016-04-12
Managing Millenials: Understanding the multi-generational needs of today's workforce.
Chief Claims Officer Summit Philadelphia, PA.
2013-09-09
Liquid Leadership: Digital Age Secrets to Productivity
Conversation Suite Event MasterCard Worldwide, Purchase, NY
2012-10-11
Creating Your Legacy: 5 Steps for Developing Professionals for the Next Generation
Continuing Education for Lawyers/Accountants Lawline.com
2012-09-05
Cracking The Gen Y Code: Selling & Marketing to a Generation that HATES to be Sold To!
7th Annual NYXPO for Business 2012 Javits Center, NYC
2012-05-03
Liquid Leadership for Marketers and HR: Getting Your Multigenerational Workforce Working Together
Vistage International Monthly Meeting New York City
2012-02-09
Liquid Leadership: Getting The Woodstock and Wikipedia Generations Working Together
Vistage: Board Presentation New York, NY
2011-12-06
Liquid Leadership for Marketers: Is Your Marketing Generation Y Compliant?
Annual Mind Capture Boot Camp Grand Rapids, Michigan
2011-11-10
Linked In or Locked Out: Building Connections That Matter
2011 Michigan Primary Care Association Annual Conference Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa, Thompsonville, Michigan
2011-08-08
Sample Talks
Cracking The Gen Y Code: Selling & Marketing to a Generation That HATES to be Sold To!
How do you sell to a tech savvy customer who was raised on Video Games, The Internet and understands Cloud Technology INTUITIVELY? Web Pioneer Brad Szollose will show your audience:
1) How to spot the Digital Divide and Manage It
2) How to analyze a potential client’s Behavioral Communications Style …and customize a sales pitch that initiates conversion
3) Learn the 5 Keys to engage a Gen Y Customer not just now, but long-term
The Liquid Leadership Essential 7 for The Information Age:
Seven Keys To Managing, Motivating and Increasing Output from People Who Refuse to Be Managed!
In a 1 to 2 hour customized workshop Brad will lead your key people into discussion and exercises designed to get people to adapt their leadership style to your culture, drop generational opinions that cause resistance, build credibility while tapping into each others skill sets and increased productivity. Let’s close the Digital Divide and get the work done!
Legacy: Lighting The Fire of Inspiration for The Future
In Brad’s Legacy keynote, he takes your audience on a journey of his own life: from being a sickly kid who almost lost his hearing to breaking his ankle during band camp… to entering full contact Martial Arts training at 45 yrs of age. From the stories of his father who wouldn’t give him an allowance to becoming an entrepreneur at 16, eventually taking a company public on NASDAQ. From tears of joy to laughter, Brad’s stories will show you how to pass your legacy to the next generation.
Cracking The Gen Y Code: Managing a Generation That Refuses to be Managed!
How do you manage people who think more like an entrepreneur than an employee? Better yet, how do you pass on a work ethic and a legacy to people who do not take work seriously? Web Pioneer and award winning management expert Brad Szollose will show your attendees:
1) Why Gen Y thinks the way they do
2) The 5 Keys to engaging and retaining talent
3) How to increase productivity while getting rid of slackers
EXECUTIVES ONLY- Liquid Leadership for The C-Level Executive:
Understanding The Digital Divide: How To Spot It, Manage It and Reinvent Your Org for the 21st Century
As a former C-Suit Executive for a publicly traded Internet company, Brad sits down with your executive team and/or board in a closed door session for a one hour look at the trends you face, the technology that is eroding your old business model and the mindset of new employees, leaders and consumers... increase your influence and ROI by understanding the culture of a new generation.
Style
Availability
- Keynote
- Moderator
- Panelist
- Workshop Leader
- Host/MC
- Author Appearance
- Corporate Training
