If you’d like to check it out, you can find this episode on Spotify. It’s also on Apple Podcasts and on our podcast landing page

In this vibrant and heartfelt episode, the team at augustwenty explores the journey of their company, recently recognized for the fourth year as a “Best Places to Work.” With hosts DJ, Mary Kaufmann, and their colleagues, the episode is a mix of celebration, reflection, and humor, highlighting the unique culture that defines augustwenty.

Key Highlights

Celebrating the “Best Places to Work” Recognition

• The team discusses the factors contributing to their ongoing recognition, including transparency, trust, flexibility, and employee engagement.
• Angela McManaway, CEO and co-founder, emphasizes the importance of creating a workplace where people feel safe, secure, and valued—free to voice opinions without fear of repercussions.
• The group reflects on the importance of employee feedback, which is central to the awards process. Jennifer Clay highlights how the survey data helps the company continually improve and evolve.

The augustwenty Journey: From Startup to Success

• DJ recounts the early days of the company, including the pivotal moment when employees rallied around the idea of starting augustwenty.
• The company began with a shared vision of trust and camaraderie rather than rigid structure, as illustrated by employees eagerly committing to the venture even before it fully took shape.
• Angela reflects on key milestones, including their first client and their one-year anniversary celebration, which marked a significant moment of gratitude and achievement.

Defining a “World-Class” Organization

• A spirited debate emerges around what it means to be “world-class.” Angela believes that true excellence is holistic—it’s about being world-class not only in client delivery but also in employee experience.
• DJ and others discuss the balance between being recognized as a leader in the industry while maintaining a strong, supportive culture internally.

The Role of Learning in Company Culture

• The team emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, with Mary Kaufmann recalling how the company built its learning programs from scratch.
• DJ and Angela underscore the evolving nature of technology and how staying at the forefront requires embracing learning as an integral part of work.

Memorable Moments and Company Spirit

• The group reminisces about highlights from their journey, including:
  • Company celebrations like their annual Christmas party, where DJ donned a hilarious blow-up Santa suit, much to the delight of children and adults alike.
  • Employee bonding experiences like a bread-making initiative and a food channel where team members share recipes and culinary adventures.
  • Fun, informal moments such as DJ’s sound effects during meetings and lighthearted banter that keeps the team connected.
• These anecdotes illustrate the deep connections and collaborative spirit within augustwenty, making it a place employees love to work.

Employee Feedback and Connection

• The podcast delves into comments from recent employee surveys. Employees praise the company’s flexibility, meaningful work, and opportunities to solve challenging problems.
• Mary and Beth share how employees feel valued and engaged, noting that many cite the company’s people as the primary reason for joining and staying.

Takeaways

This episode offers a deep dive into what makes augustwenty a standout workplace. At its core, the company is defined by its people: a team that supports one another, embraces learning, and shares a common vision of excellence. Through collaboration, trust, and a willingness to grow, augustwenty has built a culture where both the business and its employees thrive.

The episode ends with a lighthearted tone, reflecting the company’s balance of professionalism and fun, leaving listeners inspired by the team’s dedication to building something truly remarkable together.

If you’d like to check it out, you can find this episode on Spotify. It’s also on Apple Podcasts and on our podcast landing page