When systems don’t work, people don’t stop working. They find their own solutions. In this episode of Make Others Successful, we unpack what really happens when tools, processes, and leadership structures fall short. What gets labeled as “silos” or “shadow IT” is often a symptom of something deeper: well‑intentioned people trying to get their work done.
We talk about:

• Why silos are a symptom, not the root problem
• How good intentions quietly create brittle systems
• The hidden cost of workarounds on scale, retention, and growth
• What leaders need to do differently to break the cycle

If you’ve ever wondered why your organization feels stuck duct‑taping solutions together, this one’s for you.

What’s the invisible “glue” that holds high‑performing organizations together? In this episode of Make Others Successful, leaders at Bulb Digital break down how communication, collaboration, and business processes connect silos, reduce friction, and help teams reach bigger goals together. Learn why this often‑overlooked layer is critical for scaling your business and building a healthier, more effective workplace.

Modern technology promises to make work easier but getting the most out of it is harder than ever. 

Today, Mitch, Matt, and Mike dig into that concept, exploring how today's tools are transforming workflows while raising the skill ceiling for users, and what leadership mindset it takes to set your organization up to adapt to the ever-changing technology landscape.

Most leaders and teams focus on getting through today’s work, but rarely stop to consider how their habits shape the future. 

In this episode, Mitch and Mike zoom out to explore how everyday workplace behaviors impact not just productivity now, but the people, culture, and organizations that come after us.

We hit 50 episodes of Make Others Successful and decided to celebrate by going live!

Mitch, Mike, and Matt share what four years of podcasting has taught us, answer listener questions, and bring back a special guest, Ashley. Plus, some fun stories, giveaways, and predictions for the future of AI and workplace tech.

We know this one’s a little different from our usual episodes, but thanks for celebrating with us.

In Episode 49, Matt, Mike, and Michaela tackle common workflow headaches like slow approvals and lost requests. 

They show how Power Platform can automate processes and how AI can take your system to the next level, all while keeping human oversight where it matters most 💪

Ever wish you could just hit reset on how your team works? 

In episode 48 of the MOS podcast, Mitch, Matt, and Mike imagine hitting reset on your workplace. If you could start fresh with M365, where would you begin? They break down the steps, what to expect, and how to build a modern, efficient team from the ground up.

Tell us your thoughts below ⬇️

Matt and Mike unpack the biggest myths around AI in the workplace, like whether it’s taking your job, replacing your tools, or requiring a degree in prompt engineering to use effectively.

If you’ve been overwhelmed by the AI hype, this episode will help you zoom out and see the practical reality 👏

Microsoft 365 is evolving fast, and not always in the ways you’d expect. 

In this episode, we're sharing unfiltered thoughts on Copilot’s growing presence, long-overdue updates to Loop and Teams, and what’s actually useful in the new Copilot app. 

Plus: What are Agents, and should you build one? Whether you’re excited, skeptical, or overwhelmed, this one’s for you 🙂

Change is uncomfortable, but that doesn’t mean it’s failing. 

In episode 45 of the MOS podcast, we talk about how to spot real progress (even when things feel chaotic), what red flags to actually pay attention to, and why friction isn’t always a bad thing. 

Whether you're rolling out new tools, improving communication, or rethinking knowledge sharing, this one’s for you.

Overwhelmed by Microsoft 365 tools? You’re not alone. 

In this episode, Mitch and Matt break down the ocean-drop-off metaphor they use to explain tool complexity, from everyday apps like Outlook and Planner to the deep end with Power Apps and Dataverse. If you’re wondering which tools make sense for your process or when to invest in more powerful solutions, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Make Others Successful, we ask the big question: is having an MSP really enough? 

We explore the gaps that MSPs often leave, especially around Microsoft 365, and why internal tech strategy matters more than ever. If your workplace tech feels like it's missing something, this one’s for you.

Is there really a perfect tool for work? (Spoiler: No.) 

In this episode, Mitch, Mike, and Matt break down the obsession with finding a “perfect” tool and why that mindset actually holds teams back. Instead of endlessly searching, we talk about the real game-changer: foundational skills that help people use the tools they already have.

Plus, we share a sneak peek at something we’re working on to help teams get on the same page 👀

In episode 41, we break down the basics of getting work done by exploring projects, processes, and people work. We explain how clear projects create direction, processes build consistency, and strong communication brings teams together. 
Listen in the conversation for simple tips that will boost your productivity today 💡

🎉 Bonus Episode! 

Join Mitch, Matt, and Emma for an impromptu discussion on the major updates coming to Microsoft Teams. We're giving our candid opinions and tips to navigate the new Chats and Channels merge and optimize your workspace.

Join the conversation and tell us your thoughts on this update 👀

It’s our first podcast of 2025! 

Emma, Matt, Mike, and Mitch look back on last year’s wins (and a few misses) and share what’s next for helping teams work smarter in 2025. From big ideas about Microsoft 365 to real talk on project vs. process management, this episode is all about practical ways to build a better, more modern workplace.

In episode 39 of Make Others Successful, the team dives into how to make 2025 your best year yet by focusing on three key areas: having smarter meetings, ditching email, and fixing inefficient business processes.

Discover simple tools and strategies you can start using today to streamline your workflow and improve collaboration.

Listen to hear practical tips from Mitch, Emma, Mike, and Matt as they share their expertise and experiences to inspire meaningful change in your workplace.

In this special Q&A episode of the Make Others Successful podcast, we're answering your questions and tackling some of the most common challenges project managers face, especially when navigating the Microsoft 365 suite.

Whether you're new to formal project management or juggling multiple roles in your organization, we’ve got you covered. Listen in for practical, real-world solutions to help streamline your projects and boost collaboration!

🎧 Listen to our episode about adoption here!

In episode 37 of Make Others Successful, Mitch, Emma, and Matt tackle the nuances of Microsoft's tool ecosystem, focusing on the distinctions between individual-use and enterprise-use tools. They address common user challenges, assess Microsoft’s market strategy, and share ways for organizations to better leverage and use these tools.

Listen and tell us what you think!

In episode 36 of the Make Others Successful podcast, Mitch, Mike, Emma, and Matt discuss the importance of establishing strong communication and collaboration foundations in the workplace. 

They share insights from a recent workshop, highlighting the benefits of modern tools like Microsoft Teams and Slack over traditional methods like email. 

Listen to learn why starting with effective communication is essential for optimizing workplace processes and achieving success.

In this episode of Make Others Successful, we dive deep into the methods and exercises that drive successful client engagements. Mitch, Emma, and Matt explore essential tools like project kickoffs, leadership interviews, and the powerful "hopes and fears" exercise for team alignment.

You'll also learn about technology mapping, business process analysis, and more. Listen and discover how our toolkit can help align technology with your business vision and drive success.

We'll be the first to say it: M365 isn't perfect. We know the limitations it has and how that can make project management difficult sometimes. It's not a dead end though 🙂

Emma, Mitch, and Matt discuss how Microsoft tools can work for you and more importantly how you can get through those restrictions. With a change in perspective and an open mind, we think M365 tools can increase your productivity and improve your product management experience.

Today we're discussing the pitfalls of person-based communication. If you're relying on email and direct messaging, a.k.a information silos, you probably need to redefine how you communicate.

Mitch, Emma, and Matt talk about how to leave person-based communication behind and switch to topic-based communication. Topic-based communication creates better organization, easy onboarding for new team members, and a more inclusive and informed workforce. 

Let us know what you think of episode 33 of the Make Others Successful podcast 😄

AI seems to be popping up everywhere, including the workplace. Not only is it overwhelming, but knowing where AI will integrate seamlessly into your work life can be tricky to figure out.

That's why in episode 32, Mitch, Matt, and Emma discuss the concept of MS Copilot, its impact on productivity, the learning curve, and the future of work with AI. Listen and learn along with us as we discuss the nuances of AI and how it can work for you.

The Bulb Gals are back for episode 31 of the Make Others Successful podcast 😊 Emma, Livvy, and Michaela are discussing the importance of communication in the workplace and how it can bring employees closer together.

Creating structure, promoting participation, and building those spaces for work and play create a safe and fun environment for great communication. And we've learned that great communication builds stronger connections. 

Let us know what you think of today's episode and your thoughts on communication within your workplace. 

In episode 30 of the MOS podcast, Mitch, Matt, and Mike discuss the history and development of Bulb Digital and reflect on their problem-solving journey while discussing the history of Bulb!

They talk the challenges they've faced, including the gap between people who need strategy upfront and those who need help with specific problems, along with their biggest goal: helping people and their businesses 🙌

Let us know what you think of today's episode! Your feedback means a lot to us.

Between growing our business and helping customers with their workplaces, we've gained useful insights into creating modern work environments, tech integration, and everything in between.

In episode 29 of the Make Others Successful podcast, Mitch, Matt, and Mike discuss the challenges and misconceptions of building a better workplace for employees and customers. Learn our perspective in today's episode.

We are in the M365 world every single day, and there are new updates everywhere it seems. It's a lot to keep track of!

Luckily in episode 27 of the Make Other Successful podcast, Mitch, Matt, and Emma discuss all of these recent updates and how they feel about them. Everything from New Teams to Copilot. Listen to day and see what's on the M365 horizon!

Tell us below what M365 tools you want to be in the know about below ⬇️

Get to know the Bulb Gals in episode 26 of the Make Others Successful podcast!

Emma, Livvy, and Michaela discuss the benefits of working for a modern workplace and share some ways that they could have modernized their former workplaces.

If you're wondering how you can make your current workplace a bit more modern, the Bulb Gals are going to give you some tips on how to do so in today's episode 🙌

Microsoft Teams: a familiar software for many of us, no matter what industry you work in. As familiar as it may seem, Teams can be a massive pain point for many.

In episode 25 of the Make Others Successful podcast, Matt, Emma, and Mike explain why generic training isn't enough and the importance of having structure around how you use Teams as an organization.

We hope you enjoy this episode — tell us what you think or questions you have below!

A note from us: the Internal Communication Guidebook isn't released yet, but will be soon! More updates to come 😁

In today's episode of Make Others Successful, we're taking you into the mind of a consultant and why adopting this mindset is beneficial for many reasons when it comes to business.

Mitch, Mike, and Emma chat about what separates a good vs. bad consultant, having a sustainability mindset, and the importance of setting priorities and aligning them with the overall goals of a business.

We hope you enjoy episode 24 of the Make Others Successful podcast — tell us what you think below!

When new technology is introduced to your organization, it's crucial to know how it'll be adopted, how to get employees to want to use it, and what guidelines will need to be followed. We know, it's overwhelming!

Thankfully, this is what we do. In episode 23 of the Make Others Successful Podcast, you'll learn what governance means and how to implement new technology that sticks within your organization.

What are the requirements for easy and effective collaboration with customers, vendors, or anyone outside of your organization? It's not such an easy (or straightforward) question to answer, yet every business has to externally work with others at some point in time.

Luckily, we know a thing or two about what makes external collaboration effective. We're going to share our strategies that have led us to great external relationships in today's podcast episode of Make Others Successful 🙌

It's time to end the difficult cycle of rumor mills, lost documents, misread messages, and other internal communication mishaps. In episode 21 of the Make Others Successful podcast, we unpack how to improve internal communication within your workplace.

From new mindset adoption to actionable steps you can take today, we're here to help make internal communication effortless and stress free!

Internal collaboration within the workplace, an easy concept! Right? Turns out, it's not that simple. Many factors go into effective, worthwhile collaboration within an organization and between employees. Between mindset, creating safe collaboration spaces, and updating the technology you collaborate in, it can become overwhelming.

That's why Mitch, Livvy, Matt, and Mike are unpacking what internal collaboration looks like within a modern workplace and how your organization can improve your your processes today! Enjoy episode 20 of the Make Others Successful podcast and let us know what you think.

If you know anything about us, you know we are major Microsoft users. I mean, it's kind of our thing 😁 So, it might be a little shocking to find out that we aren't Microsoft partners anymore...Yep, that's right!

Join us for episode 19 of the Make Others Successful podcast where Mitch, Matt, and Mike explain our reasoning for not being partners with Microsoft anymore.

Excel, you know it and love it, but is it doing more harm than good when it comes to your business? Between the sunk costs, the never-ending updates to your spreadsheets, and the toll it takes on your sanity, you may find yourself trapped in an Excel cycle without even realizing it. We are here to help you move on from Excel before disaster strikes and show you the benefits of leaving it behind.

Mitch, Emma, and Mike discuss the reasons why Excel is not the solution to running your business and how it actually is costing you valuable time and money. If you want more resources regarding the trap of Excel, make sure to checkout Mike's recent blog post about this topic here.

When someone asks what you do for work, it's easy to talk about the tasks you work on, but do you ever stop to talk about your company's mission? What problems you solve? The work you do is not necessarily your mission, but it's vital to communicate your mission effectively to your employees so they can take that mission into account when making decisions and ultimately work towards a shared goal. 

In episode 17 of the Make Others Successful podcast where Emma, Matt, and Mike dive into the importance of defining your business' mission, and how vital it is to communicate said mission to your employees effectively for overall greater success. 

Technology: the ultimate double-edged sword. Some days it's our best friend and other days, our worst nightmare. But, in regards to connecting people to one another, is technology the answer? Communication via technology isn't here to replace the in-person connection, but rather help us when the in-person option isn't always available. 

In episode 16 of the Make Others Successful podcast, Mitch, Matt, and Mike dive into the ins and outs of communicating and continuing to connect through technology.

What is an intranet? Is it different from an Employee Portal? What are they good for? What are they BAD for?

We're boiling it down to some basics here so you can understand how an Intranet can help you and your organization.

As a consultancy that primarily does work in the Microsoft space, it often feels like "if there is a Microsoft tool that does what we're looking for, we should use it". 

Well, that isn't always the case, and sometimes we use others for a variety of reasons. 

In this episode we'll dig into 5 tools that we use, and why.

Full transcript and show notes

Should you buy software off the shelf?

Or should you build something custom?

What about something in between?

In this episode we'll dive deep into the timeline, cost, customizability, risks, benefits and lifecycle of all these different methods of solving business problems, so next time you're presented with the choice, you'll have this knowledge at your disposal and can choose well.

If you're looking for a way to roll out new technology or new ideas and really get some momentum behind them at your organization, you should consider the Champions Model. The Champions Model involves building a team around the idea that new ideas are great, but need to be vetted before launching to the whole organization. The Champions Team is able to easily validate the ideas, give feedback, and have a balanced mindset on how the new concepts should be used.

We're going to dig a bit more into this model, talk about the pros and cons, and help you identify who the Champions on your team should be. 

Please enjoy the conversation with Mike Bodell and Matt Dressel.

Our focus today is around hiring consultants to help you with initiatives in your organization. Should you be looking for a company/expert to help? Should you hire someone on your team internally? And what information do you need in order to make this decision? We’re going to target Office 365 today, but a lot of this thinking is “agnostic” to the specific technology. And full disclosure, we offer O365 services, but this podcast isn’t about us, it’s about helping you find your way when you have business goals that may require some technology behind the effort. So please enjoy the conversation between Matt Dressel, Mike Bodell, and Mitch Herrema.

We've built our fair share of intranets over the years, and we've noticed many of our clients like the idea of the "big bang" launch where they can celebrate and have an event for the launch of the intranet. We're all about celebrating, but the process of actuallly getting all the pieces in place and keeping it all up to date while the intranet is being built is a lot of work. So we have a few ideas around this topic, and why you might want to consider a phased approach to your intranet launch.

Please enjoy the conversation with Mike Bodell and Matt Dressel.

What really is a Modern Workplace? Being a “Modern Workplace” can mean a lot of things, but there’s one thing that’s certain - it’s always a moving target. We’ll be talking through our 3 areas of focus: Communication, Collaboration, and Business Applications, and give a glimpse into what we see those areas looking like in a “Modern Workplace”, as well as a little history on where they’ve come from.

While we do talk about some specific technologies, know that these can be applied “agnostically” independent of a specific technology. It’s more about culture and mindset than anything. So let’s get into it - Please enjoy the conversation with Matt Dressel, Mike Bodell, and Mitch Herrema.

Today we’re going to be digging into the Power Platform in Microsoft 365 a little bit, specifically creating resources in Power Automate and Power Apps. Who should be the owner of these things? Should we be using a service account? What happens if the owner of these resources leaves the company? If you are the Power Platform Admin at your organization, this one is for you.

We’re going to be answering all these questions, and give you a few recommendations for how to best manage resources in the Power Platform. Please enjoy the conversation with Matt Dressel, Ashley Jolman, and myself.

Have you ever been on a website that offers technical services you need, and all you find are flashy case studies, as well as pages that list all these great benefits you’ll get from working with them? Everything looks great until you start looking for pricing. It’s nowhere to be found. All you see is a big “contact us” button, or "schedule a demo". Odds are, things stop right there. You’ll have to get on the phone with a salesperson who is driving to close the sale, which is never fun.

We’ve been working to challenge this process, and give someone browsing our site all the information they need before they get in touch through the use of productized services. Today we'll be chatting today with Mitch Herrema (Operations), Ashley Jolman (our delivery lead), and Mike Bodell to dig into this topic and understand some of the benefits we’re seeing through the use of productized services.

In today’s episode we’re going to be talking with Matt Dressel and Mike Bodell about all things onboarding, and give you some recommendations about how you can use technology to help your process and make it a great experience.

Welcome to Make Others Successful, a podcast about modernizing your workplace and breaking down technology barriers to improve communication, collaboration, and automate business process. We do all of this so you can get back to what your job really is, and move your business’ mission forward.

In this episode, we wanted to take some time to introduce ourselves to help you understand where we came from, where we're at now, and where we see ourselves in the future.

Please enjoy our conversation with Mike Bodell and Matt Dressel, founders of Bulb Digital.